Located just minutes from downtown Montrose, the Buzzard Gulch Trail System offers miles of scenic trails winding through Colorado’s high-desert landscape. Popular with hikers, mountain bikers, and trail runners, Buzzard Gulch features rolling terrain, wide-open views, juniper-covered hillsides, and sweeping vistas of the surrounding mountains. The trail network provides a great opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Western Colorado without venturing far from town.
With routes ranging from easy walks to more challenging loops, Buzzard Gulch is an excellent destination for visitors of all skill levels. The area is especially beautiful in the early morning and evening when wildlife is active and the changing light highlights the dramatic scenery. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely nature walk, a vigorous workout, or a chance to enjoy Colorado’s wide-open spaces, Buzzard Gulch offers a convenient outdoor adventure close to Meadows of San Juan Resort.
Trail Details
- Distance: Multiple interconnected trails ranging from 1 to 10+ miles
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Elevation Gain: Varies by route
- Highlights: Mountain views, desert landscapes, wildlife viewing, hiking, trail running, and mountain biking
- Distance from Meadows of San Juan Resort: Approximately 15 minutes
The Barbara Whipple Trail is a grouping of several trails on the east side of the Arkansas River. It is the most popular hike in town and hiking this trail is easily combined with any biking or boating experience nearby. Looking back across the valley, you will see great views of the Collegiate Peaks. The trail runs through pinions and one section follows a portion of the old Midland Railroad grade. Several kiosks along the way provide current and historical information about the area.
The trail is steep beginning at the Arkansas River trailhead, but becomes much easier with some elevation gain. Total elevation gain for the trail is approximately 600 feet.