Hiking to Wilson Peak via the Rock of Ages Trail in Telluride

Hiking to Wilson Peak via the Rock of Ages Trail offers a thrilling adventure for both novice and seasoned hikers. This trail stands out due to its connectivity to one of the most iconic peaks in Colorado and provides breathtaking views of the San Juan Mountains. The challenge of the ascent rewards hikers with panoramic vistas, making it an unforgettable experience in Telluride’s stunning landscape.

Adventure Guide to Hiking to Wilson Peak via the Rock of Ages Trail

Trailhead Location: The hike begins at the Rock of Ages Trailhead, which is easily accessible from Telluride. The trail is approximately 10 miles round trip and features significant elevation gain, reaching over 14,000 feet at Wilson Peak.
Stunning Landscapes: As you ascend, you’ll encounter wildflower fields in summer, along with breathtaking views into the Lizard Head Wilderness. The area is known for its diverse alpine flora, and the scenery provides fantastic photo opportunities along the way.
Key Features: The trail is well-marked and offers rocky sections that require careful footing. Additionally, lookout points offer glimpses of the Telluride Valley and surrounding peaks, capturing the majesty of the Rockies.

Local Insights

Wilson Peak holds historical significance, being one of the locations depicted in the Coors beer logo. This peak has drawn adventurers for centuries, enhancing the cultural tapestry of the region. Be prepared for rapidly changing weather; local lore advises hiking early and checking forecasts before your journey.

Visitor Tips

Best Times to Visit: Late spring to early fall is ideal for hiking. Summer offers blooming wildflowers, while autumn presents stunning foliage.
What to Bring: Essential items include plenty of water, snacks, a first-aid kit, layered clothing, and sunscreen. Trekking poles can be beneficial for the rocky terrain.
Driving Directions: From Telluride, drive approximately 30 minutes on Colorado Route 145 to the trailhead. Parking is available but can fill up quickly during peak hiking seasons.

Adventure Map

Reviews

Spencer Goodwin2 years ago

Beautiful views on the way to the Wilson Peak summit. A lot of walking on an old mining road but plenty to see on the way up, including a cool abandoned stone house.

Will Fisher4 months ago

Pretty amazing trailhead. Watch out for the stream crossing and some mud puddles right before hand otherwise the road was perfectly doable in a 2 wheeel drive truck. Great approach up Wilson peak along the southwest ridge.

Joel W Cabrera6 years ago

Places to camp along the road leading to the TH, but no camping at the TH itself. Water source not easily accessible at TH but you can use the stream crossing on the way if you need a water source.

Steve Miller6 years ago

I feel like it's a little unkind to rate Rock of Ages this way, because it really is a beautiful area. However, my experience was with regard to climbing the Wilson Group peaks from this trailhead. I do not mind having to do extra elevation when I climb (and doing Wilson and El Diente this way definitely has it) - the main problem has to do with the fact that you spend almost all of that extra time on old doubletrack mining roads. If I'm going to do a long approach, I want it to be singletrack. I've also been into this area from the Kilpacker side, which I thought was a much better experience overall.

Bryan Bishop6 years ago

Well defined trail up to Rock of Ages pass. Great views of the Wilson's and Gladstone. The trail starts off as a nice dirt trail and turns to Rock above treeline. The trail goes above Silver Pick mine and spends some time on impressive mining roads. Once above the mining road the trails gets steep as it climbs the 1000' to the Rock of Ages saddle.

Hiking

Hiking to Wilson Peak via the Rock of Ages Trail in Telluride