Cochetopa Hills

The Cochetopa Hills form a remote, high-altitude mountain range in south-central Colorado, characterized by rolling tundra-covered peaks and expansive alpine meadows that stretch across the Continental Divide. This relatively gentle range, lacking the jagged spires of Colorado's more famous ranges, offers a unique appeal for those seeking solitude and vast panoramic views across the San Juan Mountains and surrounding basins. The terrain is ideal for backpacking expeditions, with numerous ridgeline routes that traverse 11,000-12,000 foot elevations through pristine wilderness. Wildlife enthusiasts frequent these hills for encounters with elk, mule deer, mountain goats, and raptors, while photographers are drawn to the stark beauty of windswept peaks and wildflower-filled meadows during summer months.