Pine River

Pine River is a 46.4-mile out-and-back trail located in Colorado near the Rio Grande National Forest, managed by the Conejos Peak Ranger District. This extended route offers backcountry hiking through remote terrain in the San Juan Mountains region. The out-and-back format allows hikers to customize their experience by turning around at any point along the route, making it accessible for various fitness levels and timeframes. The trail traverses through the Rio Grande National Forest, providing access to wilderness areas with scenic mountain vistas and riparian corridors typical of the region. Given the trail's significant distance, most hikers should plan for a multi-day backpacking trip with appropriate gear and preparation. The route follows the Pine River drainage, offering opportunities to experience less-crowded backcountry in southwestern Colorado. Before heading out, contact the Conejos Peak Ranger District for current conditions, water availability, and any trail maintenance updates. Elevation gain data is not currently available, so hikers should research recent trip reports for detailed topographic information to properly plan their adventure.