Piedra River (596)

This is an excellent trail any time of the year offering something for every type of outdoor enthusiast. The trail journeys through a great mix of river canyon, meadows, and forest. Wildlife viewing, whitewater rafting, fishing, backpacking, bird watching, wildflower admiring and ample photography opportunities are to be found along this 11.2 mile long trail. The first couple of miles from each trailhead are relatively busy. However, if you venture into the inner stretches of this trail it is possible to find great solitude. In the winter months this is one of the only easily accessible trailheads. The first few miles provide a great snow shoeing or winter hiking excursion in a relatively friendly environment. If you continue on however, this trail becomes a serious undertaking in the winter months. The trail ends at the end of First Fork Road (FDR 662) at the First Fork Trailhead; this trailhead is not accessible in the winter months.

Starting Elevation: 7700 ft
Ending Elevation: 7200 ft
Trail length one way: 11.2 miles trailhead to trailhead
Maps: SJNF map and USGS 7.5’ maps: Oakbrush Ridge, Bear Mountain , and Devil Mountain

At a Glance

Information Center:	Pagosa Ranger District Office

General Information

Directions:

Piedra River Trailhead: From Pagosa Springs, travel west on U.S. Highway 160 to Piedra Road (County Road 600/ NFSR 631), then north on Piedra Road. for 16.2 miles. Cross the Piedra River and continue about 300 yards to the signed trailhead parking on the left.

First fork Trailhead: From Pagosa Springs, travel 22 miles west on U.S. Highway 160 to First Fork Road (NFSR 622). Turn north and continue approximately 12 miles to the trailhead at road's end.