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San Juan

The San Juan National Forest encompass some 1.8 million acres, stretching across five Colorado counties in the southwestern corner of the state. This terrain ranges from high-desert mesas to alpine peaks, with thousands of miles of back roads and hundreds of miles of trails to explore.

The San Juan National Forest abound with natural and cultural treasures. Five distinct life zones range from elevations near 5,000 feet to above 14,000 feet. Several of Colorado’s famous “14’ers” can be found in the Weminuche and Lizard Head Wilderness Areas. The San Juan also includes the South San Juan Wilderness Area.

Cultural resources run the gamut from historic mining ghost towns and mills to Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings and pit houses. Some heritage sites offer guided tours; others are unmarked treasures you may happen across in the backcountry.

Chimney Rock is a San Juan National Forest Archaeological Area located in Colorado between Durango and Pagosa Springs and managed for archaeological protection, public interpretation, and education.

Crystal Lake.

This Forest has an amazing selection of trails to choose from. Each Ranger District, Columbine, Dolores, and Pagosa has its own trail guide.

Visitors have a number of campground options throughout the forest. Visit the San Juan Public Lands Center for a free San Juan National Forest Campground Guide. Also, the Dolores Ranger District has three horse-friendly campgrounds.

If you are headed to the San Juan in the fall, make sure you check out its Weekly Fall Color Report before you go.

Colorado Forests

Contact

970.247.4874
Hearing Impaired: 970.385.1257

15 Burnett Court
Durango, CO 81301

First-timer’s Adventure

In the Dolores Ranger District, you'll find the Big Al Trail. The trail is a half-mile, surfaced trail leading to a deck that offers dramatic views of West Mancos Canyon and the La Plata Mountains. This trail is closed to bikes, horses, and motorized vehicles.

Interpretive signs along the way point out flora and fauna; there are benches, making this an ideal hiking venue for small children and seniors, or for just taking a leisurely stroll from the adjacent campground. Don’t forget your camera!

Statistics

State(s):

Colorado

Nearest Large Urban Area:

Denver

Notes & Conditions:

Research campground locations and amenities at the U.S. National Forest Campground Directory. The Web site is full of pictures and detailed descriptions to help you plan your next trip.

If you want to experience a guided recreation trip in a National Forest, visit Adventure Vacation to learn about whitewater rafting, canoeing, kayaking, horseback riding, camping, hiking and fishing trips

Maps:

Visit the National Forest Store to see what maps are available for this Forest and others you may want to visit.