Apr 10
22
Cross Mountain Hiking Trail
Distance: 7.6 miles RT
Elevation Gain: 1929′
Starting Elevation: 10,200′
Rating: Moderate
View from Cross Mountain Trailhead
The trailhead starts a few miles before Lizard Head Pass off of highway 145 north of Rico, Colorado on the way to Telluride.
You enter into the Lizard Head Wilderness area here and are able to access many other trails such as the Lizard Head Trail which connects with several other trails in this wilderness area.
This is also a good place to access the areas fourteeners; El Diente, Mount Wilson and Wilson Peak. The Cross Mountain trail offers spectacular views of Lizard Head and the fourteener peaks close by.
Views to the east are equally awe inspiring. This southwest Colorado hike is ideal for a fall hiking trip, the Aspen are dense in this area and the golden to sunshine yellow against the dark evergreens is quite striking.
Peak leaf peeping generally happens around the end of September to early October. Our dog Ginger really enjoyed this hike so it’s a good choice to bring your best bud along.
Head into Telluride after this hike for some lunch or an overnight stay. The drive continues to amaze as you head up to Lizard Head pass and then on in to Telluride which sits in a box canyon surrounded by towering peaks.
Take a ride on the gondola to get a birds-eye view of the town and ski area. Telluride is a custom blend of rustic western and hollywood chic and they have many four star lodging and restaurant options as well as moderate accommodation and dining choices.
Gear Recommendations (besides the 10 essentials):
Hydration Pack
Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
Extra food
Latitude 40 Map for Telluride, Ouray and Silverton
