Sneffels Highline

Distance: 8.0 - 12.7 miles (loop)

Mount Sneffels Wilderness, Uncompahgre National Forest, near Telluride in Southwest Colorado

Upper Mill Creek Basin from the saddle

Upper Mill Creek Basin from the saddle

 

This is my favorite hike in Telluride. The trail crosses a high saddle separating two gorgeous alpine basins, traverses meadows filled with thigh-high wildflowers and serves up spectacular views of the high peaks surrounding the Telluride Valley and the San Miguel Mountains in the Lizard Head Wilderness.
See Trail Detail/Full Description

  • Distance: 12.7 miles (loop)
  • Elevation: 8,900-ft. at Trailhead
    Maximum elevation: 12,280-ft.
  • Elevation Gain: 3,380-ft.
  • Difficulty: strenuous
  • More Hikes in:
    Telluride / Southwest Colorado

Why Hike Sneffels Highline

If I only had time for one hike in the Telluride area, I’d choose the Sneffels Highline. This classic loop hike, leaving right from town, features spectacular views, two beautiful alpine basins and pretty meadows with thigh-high fields of wildflowers.

Be forewarned the trail is strenuous, covering 12.7 miles and climbing 3,380-ft. to its high point on a saddle below Mt. Emma (12,280-ft.). Don’t let the challenge deter you. Pick a beautiful day and get an early start so you can enjoy this premier hike at a leisurely pace.

Elevation Profile

Sneffels Highline Elevation Profile

Best Hiking in Southwest Colorado around Ouray, Telluride and Silverton

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Trail Resources

Trail Detail/Full Description / Trail Photo Gallery / Trail Map

Basecamp(s) Information:
Telluride

Region Information:
Southwest Colorado

Other Hiking Regions in:
Colorado