Big Al Trail

President Theodore Roosevelt’s June 3, 1905 proclamation established the San Juan National Forest, a vast southwestern Colorado expanse where Big Al Trail offers diverse outdoor pursuits. Visitors engage in mountain biking, horseback riding, and fishing across the forest’s varied terrain. The area preserves a deep historical legacy, featuring archaeological sites like the Pueblo II settlements at Chimney Rock and culturally modified ponderosa pine trees known as peeled trees. Historic structures dot the landscape, including the Jersey Jim Fire Lookout Tower, which served as a fire lookout from the 1940s to the 1970s before being saved by a local nonprofit in 1991. The Aspen Guard Station, constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps between 1938 and 1941, stands as another enduring symbol of the region’s forestry heritage. Beyond hiking and backpacking, the trail system supports motorized boating, waterskiing, and snowmobiling. Picnic areas accommodate both individual visitors and groups, while hunting and OHV trail riding provide additional seasonal activities. With restrooms, parking, and credit card acceptance available, the location remains accessible for families seeking to connect with nature and history in Mancos.