Idarado Legacy Trail
Hike through Colorado's stunning San Juan Mountains, discovering waterfalls, alpine lakes, and rich mining history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temps & fewer crowds
Idarado Legacy Trail
Best Time
Cooler temps & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike through Colorado's stunning San Juan Mountains, discovering waterfalls, alpine lakes, and rich mining history.
"Absolutely stunning!! Most of the trail is nice and wide and moderate grade."
Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
The trail has uneven terrain and steep sections; good footwear is essential. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Plenty of Water
High elevation means you'll need to stay hydrated. Carry more than you think you'll need. :water_wave:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Bridal Veil Falls
End of the Idarado Legacy Trail
Witness the majestic cascade of Bridal Veil Falls, a breathtaking natural wonder.
Mining History Markers
Along the Idarado Legacy Trail
Discover remnants of Telluride's rich mining past with informative historical markers.
Alpine Lake Views
Upper sections of the trail
Be rewarded with stunning views of pristine alpine lakes, perfect for photos.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Conditions & Timing
Elevation & Preparedness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
The trail has uneven terrain and steep sections; good footwear is essential. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Plenty of Water
High elevation means you'll need to stay hydrated. Carry more than you think you'll need. :water_wave:
Check Trail Conditions
Snow can linger into summer; check recent reports before you go. :snow_cloud:
Allow Extra Time
The trail can be challenging due to elevation; take your time and enjoy the views. :stopwatch:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
The trail has uneven terrain and steep sections; good footwear is essential. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Plenty of Water
High elevation means you'll need to stay hydrated. Carry more than you think you'll need. :water_wave:
Check Trail Conditions
Snow can linger into summer; check recent reports before you go. :snow_cloud:
Allow Extra Time
The trail can be challenging due to elevation; take your time and enjoy the views. :stopwatch:
Capture the Views
Don't forget your camera for the waterfalls and alpine scenery! :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning natural beauty of the Idarado Legacy Trail system, particularly the majestic Bridal Veil Falls and the pristine alpine lakes. The historical mining remnants add a unique dimension to the hikes. However, some find the trails challenging due to steep inclines and high elevation, especially if not acclimated.
"Bear Creek Trail Review – Mid-June 2025
The Bear Creek Trail is an iconic hike located in Telluride, Colorado, leading to the stunning Bear Creek Falls, a secluded and impressive waterfall. The trail begins at the southernmost dead end of S Pine Street in the southeast corner of town.
This peaceful, straightforward out-and-back hike covers approximately 2.25 miles to the falls. The path features a steady incline, with the final half-mile being noticeably steeper. Although the terrain is uneven with small rocks and steep sections, the trail is wide, well-marked, and manageable for hikers in decent physical condition.
I reached the top in about 55 minutes, taking the time to stop and take photos along the way.
Bear Creek Falls is a towering cascade of water that overlooks Telluride and feeds the crystal-clear waters of Bear Creek. At the end of the trail, you can marvel at the base of the waterfall and, by turning 180 degrees, enjoy a panoramic view of the valley and the town. I spent around 10 minutes soaking in the majestic roar of the rushing water.
⚠️Be prepared for cold mist from the falls, which can soak you if you linger for more than 10-15 minutes. (It is beautiful, but I was not anticipating the cold mist/shower of water in June.)
This moderately challenging hike is a must-do in Telluride, offering a breathtaking reward for your efforts."
Jeff
"Competent hiker here, Bear Creek Trail was moderate but had a couple hard spots. Of course it has beautiful views and plenty of spots to take breaks along the hike. Would recommend for beginner to to expert."
Cooper Holmes
"Great little trail that leads to Bear Creek Falls and into the San Juan wilderness surrounding Telluride. It can be a day trip or a multi-day adventure into the mountains.
Do your research! Leave no trace."
Josiah Roe
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Idarado Legacy Trailhead is accessible from Telluride. For the Bear Creek Trail portion, it starts at the southernmost dead end of S Pine Street in the southeast corner of town. Some sections may require driving on gravel roads.
Parking can be limited, especially during peak season. Arrive early or consider alternative transportation if available.
Yes, parts of the trail system, like the Bear Creek Trail, are directly accessible from Telluride.
The Blue Lakes Trail, often associated with the Idarado Legacy Trail system, requires driving down about 10 miles of gravel road to the trailhead.
While direct public transport to trailheads might be limited, the Telluride Gondola offers scenic views and access to town areas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Idarado Legacy Trail and its associated trails, like Blue Lakes Trail, are generally free to access.
As an outdoor trail, it's accessible year-round during daylight hours. However, winter conditions can make it impassable.
No, tickets are not required for accessing the public trails.
Typically, no permits are needed for day hiking on these trails. However, for overnight camping in wilderness areas, permits may be required.
Dogs are generally allowed on the trails, but always check local regulations and ensure your dog is leashed and cleaned up after.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The difficulty varies. The Bear Creek Trail is considered moderate with a steeper final half-mile. Other sections, like Blue Lakes Trail, can be more challenging due to elevation gain and terrain.
Elevation gain can be significant. For example, Bridal Veil Falls hike has an elevation gain of 859ft over 2 miles. Blue Lakes Trail starts at a high elevation and continues to climb.
Expect stunning alpine lakes, beautiful waterfalls like Bridal Veil Falls, and remnants of mining history.
Some sections, like the initial part of Bear Creek Trail, are manageable for beginners. However, the steeper inclines and higher elevations on other parts may be challenging.
Restroom facilities are generally limited on backcountry trails. It's best to use facilities in town before you start your hike.
📸 📸 Photography
Bridal Veil Falls is a prime photo spot. The alpine lakes offer breathtaking backdrops, and the mining remnants provide unique historical shots.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for landscape photography, creating a golden hour glow.
A smartphone camera is sufficient for most visitors, but a DSLR or mirrorless camera will capture higher quality images of the dramatic scenery.
Drone usage may be restricted in wilderness areas and national forests. Always check local regulations before flying.
You can capture wide-angle shots of the entire waterfall, close-ups of the cascading water, and scenic views of the surrounding valley.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider shorter sections of the Idarado Legacy Trail system that are closer to town for younger children. The Telluride Gondola also provides a fun and scenic experience with minimal physical exertion, offering panoramic views of the valley and surrounding peaks.
⛰️ Experienced Hikers & Backpackers
For those seeking a more extensive trek, exploring the upper reaches of the Idarado Legacy Trail system or connecting to other backcountry routes can provide days of exploration. Always practice Leave No Trace principles and be prepared for variable mountain weather.
📸 Photographers & Scenery Enthusiasts
For the best light, aim for early mornings or late afternoons to take advantage of the golden hour.
Wide-angle lenses are great for landscapes, while telephoto lenses can isolate details in the mountains or falls. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Bridal Veil Falls
Beyond the main trail, there are opportunities to explore further into the San Juan wilderness. The area around the falls is known for its rugged beauty and is a popular spot for photographers.
Some visitors have noted that the trail can narrow significantly if you attempt to go all the way toward the peak or do a loop, so sticking to the main path to the falls is recommended for a more straightforward experience.
The Mining Heritage of the Idarado Legacy Trail
These historical points offer a unique perspective on the industry that shaped Telluride and provide context for the landscape you're exploring. Many of these trails were once used by miners to access claims and transport ore. Understanding this history adds another layer of appreciation to the natural beauty. You might see old structures, equipment, or even mine entrances, though caution should always be exercised around such sites.
For those interested in a deeper dive, consider researching the specific mines and companies that operated in the area. This background knowledge can transform a scenic hike into an educational journey through Colorado's pioneering spirit.
Hiking the Blue Lakes Trail
This trail is known for its significant elevation gain and challenging terrain, making it a more strenuous hike.
Due to its remote location and challenging nature, it's crucial to be well-prepared. Ensure you have sturdy hiking boots, plenty of water, and snacks. Checking recent trail conditions is also advisable, as snow can linger late into the season.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit