HIGHLIGHTS
The
nordic area at the far end of Trout Lake Road is maintained by the Telluride Nordic Association.
The road beyond the trestle becomes a section of the Galloping Goose Trail, and was previously the route of the Galloping Goose train which once ran through the San Juans in what must have been one incredible scenic trip.
The entire area is incredibly scenic, especially in winter. Besides the
mountain stream which feeds into Trout Lake, anytime you have the opportunity to be out among aspen and spruce the day after a snowfall you are going to see some remarkable
winter scenery.
DIRECTIONS
From Ridgway take Colorado 62 west 22 miles to Colorado 145. Turn left, south and stay on 145 past Telluride, then past Ophir about 3 miles until you see the turnoff to Trout Lake Road. Turn left onto Trout Lake Road and drive east about 3 miles to the parking area in front of the Trout Lake trestle.
ELEVATION
9,710 feet (Trout Lake).
RESOURCES
San Juan National Forest
Uncompahgre National Forest
PHOTOGRAPHS