Winter Sports
The San Juan Mountains is a beautiful, special place to visit in the winter, offering many ski, snowboard, snowshoe, nordic ski adventures. Please keep in mind that visitors to the backcountry should exercise extreme caution.
Know Before You Go
The San Juan National Forest may seem like a winter wonderland, but venturing into the backcountry in winter takes experience and skill.
- Colorado Avalanche Information Center website: Always check current snow and weather conditions before heading into the backcountry.
- Winter Recreation Tips: Follow these recommendations to stay safe this winter.
Resources to Help Plan Your Adventure
Looking to snowshoe, ski, snowmobile? Or maybe take the kids sledding? Check out our excellent resources below to help you decide where to explore and enjoy the San Juan Mountains this winter.
San Juan National Forest Winter Trail Information and Maps
Skiing/Snowboarding
Ski/Snowboarding Resort Areas: These San Juan Mountain ski areas operate under permits on National Forest and BLM lands.
Backcountry Skiing: Backcountry skiing and snowboarding has been increasing in popularity in the San Juan Mountains. Red Mountain Pass and Molas Pass along Highway 550 near Silverton, Wolf Creek Pass north of Pagosa Springs, and Lizard Head Pass north of Dolores offer some of the best hike-to terrain in the state for the experienced and adventurous. Avalanche danger runs high in these mountains - always check Colorado Avalanche Information Center for current conditions before you go!
Snowmobiling
Snowmobiling is allowed in several areas on San Juan National Forest, but certain areas are closed to snowmobiles to allow for “quiet use” or to protect sensitive wildlife. For more detailed information please inquire about over-snow regulations at any San Juan National Forest office.
Know Before You Go
- Avalanche danger is high in the San Juan Mountains, so make sure you check avalanche and weather conditions before venturing into the backcountry.
- Snowmobiles used on public lands in Colorado must be registered. Visit Colorado Parks and Wildlife for more information.
- Motorized vehicles are prohibited in Wilderness Area.
- Use caution in areas shared with nonmotorized recreationists.
- Please respect closure signs – violators risk fines.
- Do not drive over fences, signs or vegetation.
Resources to Help Plan Your Adventure
- Colorado Snowmobile Association
- Columbine District Winter Trails map
- Dolores District Winter Trails map
- Pagosa District Snowmobile Winter Trails
- Silverton Snowmobile Club Routes
XC Skiing/Snowshoeing
Cross-country ski trail systems are free to the public unless they are associated with a ski area. Most groomed trail systems are paid for by donations so please support the local organizations.
Resources to Help Plan Your Adventure
Most groomed trail systems are paid for by donations and memberships so please support the local organizations.
- Columbine District Winter Trails
- Vallecito Nordic Club
- Dolores District Winter Trails
- Mancos Valley Chamber of Commerce
- Mancos Trails Group
- Pagosa District XC Skiing and Snowshoeing Trails
- Pagosa District Coyote Hill Winter Trails
- Visit Pagosa
Search for Winter Sports Opportunities
Cascade Creek Trail
Chris Park / Haviland Lake Trail System
Engineer Mountain Trail
Purgatory Flats Trail
Vallecito Trail