Ajax Peak + Telluride Peak

About

The Ajax Peak and Telluride Peak trail is a strenuous, 11.5-mile loop in Telluride, Colorado, with approximately 4,097 feet of elevation gain and an estimated duration of eight hours. The route begins at the base of Bridal Veil Falls, where hikers can choose to walk up the paved road or take a shorter trail to the falls. From there, the path follows Black Bear Pass Road, which features rough switchbacks and requires four-wheel-drive vehicles for comfortable access to the upper trailhead. After leaving the road, singletrack switchbacks lead up steep alpine meadows to Ajax Peak (12,785 feet). The trail continues along the ridgeline over Class 3 rocky sections to reach Telluride Peak (13,509 feet). The summit offers 360-degree views of the Telluride box canyon, Imogene Pass, and distant 14ers. Fall hiking is notable for golden aspen foliage. Parking is available at the trailhead, though space on Black Bear Road can be limited.