Quartz Lake
Our Sponsors:
Activities:
Map
Closest City / Town: Pagosa Springs, Colorado
Driving Directions:
 | Go south on U.S. Hwy. 84 for 1/8 mile, turn left on Mill Creek Road (FDR 662). |
| Proceed 6.5 miles, then at the junction take Nipple Mountain Road (FDR 665) to the right. |
| Continue 9.5 miles to the trailhead. |
Hiking Distance: 9.4 miles (roundtrip)
Description: The first three miles of this trail seem to wind strait up the side of a mountain, then the trail tapers off for another mile, and it is all downhill from there. The hike offers expansive views of the Weminuche Wilderness and South San Juan Wilderness areas.
Zeus really knows how to reign supreme in South San Juan Wilderness Area - lightning is almost always in the forecast during the growing season. On this hike you'll gain nearly 2,000' in elevation. The Little Blanco Trailhead sits at 10,040'. You will eventually top out at 12,050' before descending down to Quartz Lake.
Worth Noting: If you have the time, be sure to make the trek all the way up to the Continental Divide. For more details on the hike to the Divide, see the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) link below.
The last grizzly bear ever spotted in Colorado was shot and killed in 1979 by a bow hunter in South San Juan. The area is frequently thought of as a good place to reintroduce grizzlies in Colorado.
Additional Information:
| Official USDA Forest Service Website |
| Scott S. Warren, 100 Classic Hikes in Colorado, p. 157. If you are interested in purchasing Warren's book please select the following link: |
Click on the thumbnails below to view a larger image:
Below Quartz Lake
Quartz Lake
Rock Ptarmigans
Up to the Divide
Mushroom at Quartz Lake