Hey – I am Brian from Summit Ski and Sports, and these are some of our favorites when friends and family are visiting us In Pagosa. Sandy and I, along with our 2 dogs, really enjoy these trails. So if you are looking for the best beginner hikes in Pagosa Springs, Colorado; These four trails are perfect for first-time hikers and families looking to experience the beauty of the San Juan Mountains. Come on by Summit before you hit the trails to gear up, be safe, and have fun.
Piedra Falls
If you’re looking for an easy hike with a spectacular reward, Piedra Falls is one of the best choices near Pagosa Springs. The short trail leads to a beautiful waterfall where the Piedra River rushes through a narrow canyon.
Trail Details
- Distance: 0.6 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy
- Elevation Gain: ~50 feet
- Time: 20–30 minutes
- Best Time to Visit: May–October
Highlights
- Waterfall views
- Family-friendly
- Minimal elevation gain
- Great photo opportunities
Trail Information: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/sanjuan/recarea/?recid=43278
Treasure Falls:
One of the most popular hikes near Pagosa Springs, Treasure Falls features a short uphill walk to a stunning 105-foot waterfall.
Trail Details
- Distance: 0.6 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy
- Elevation Gain: ~200 feet
- Time: 30–45 minutes
Highlights
- Spectacular waterfall
- Well-maintained trail
- Perfect for families
- Incredible mountain scenery
Trail Information: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/sanjuan/recarea/?recid=43098
Coyote Loop Trail
Located in the Turkey Springs Trail System, Coyote Loop offers a peaceful hike through towering ponderosa pines and open meadows.
Trail Details
- Distance: Approximately 2.5-mile loop
- Difficulty: Easy
- Elevation Gain: ~200 feet
- Time: 1–1.5 hours
Highlights
- Quiet forest
- Wildlife viewing
- Wildflowers in summer
- Great for beginner hikers
Trail Information: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/sanjuan/recarea/?recid=43174
Piedra River Trail:
Follow the beautiful Piedra River through forests and canyon scenery. Hike as far as you’d like before turning around.
Trail Details
- Distance: Up to 8+ miles out-and-back
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Elevation Gain: Minimal for the first few miles
- Time: 1–5 hours
Highlights
- River views
- Wildlife
- Fishing access
- Flexible hiking distance
Trail Information: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/sanjuan/recarea/?recid=43172
The 10 Essentials for Every Hike:
No matter how short the trail, always carry the 10 Essentials:
- Navigation (map, compass, or GPS)
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
- Extra clothing layers
- Headlamp or flashlight
- First-aid kit
- Fire starter
- Repair kit and multi-tool
- Extra food
- Extra water
- Emergency shelter (emergency blanket or bivy)
Mountain weather in Colorado can change quickly, so it’s always better to be overprepared than underprepared.
Pro Tip
Start your hike early in the morning, drink plenty of water (Pagosa Springs sits at over 7,000 feet in elevation), and always follow the Leave No Trace principles to help preserve these beautiful trails for future hikers.