Colorado's most rugged range, with free dispersed camping above 10,000 ft and ghost towns to explore.
The San Juans in southwest Colorado are the wildest, highest, most rugged corner of the state. Free dispersed camping in the San Juan National Forest, plus historic 4WD roads to ghost towns and 14er trailheads.
Why it's special
Big peaks, big aspens, ghost towns, and hot springs — the San Juans pack more variety per square mile than anywhere else in Colorado.
Best time to go
Late June through September. Fall aspen color in late September is spectacular.
Getting there
Durango, Silverton, Ouray, Telluride are the hubs. US-550 (Million Dollar Highway) is the spine.
Know before you go
- Many forest roads are high-clearance/4WD only.
- Black bear country.
- Afternoon thunderstorms are daily above treeline.
- Towns are tourist-pricey; Durango is most reasonable.
Pro tips from boondockers
- Ophir Pass and Black Bear Pass for serious 4WD; Imogene Pass for an iconic crossing.
- Last Dollar Road between Ridgway and Telluride for free dispersed with epic aspens.
- Orvis and Ouray Hot Springs for soaking.
- Drive the Million Dollar Highway in daylight only.
Combine with
Mesa Verde, Black Canyon of the Gunnison, Great Sand Dunes.