The 7 Summits of Telluride

About

The 7 Summits of Telluride is a demanding, approximately 14.9-mile loop hike located near Telluride, Colorado. The route climbs to a high point of 13,555 feet on Wasatch Mountain and involves traversing seven distinct peaks: Ballard Mountain, Ballard Horn, two No Name Peaks, La Junta, Wasatch Mountain, and Oscars Peak. The hike begins on the Bear Creek Falls Trail at the Bear Creek Reserve, starting on a doubletrack road through the forest before turning onto the Ballard Trail. Hikers gain nearly 4,000 feet in switchbacks to reach the first summit. The route transitions from maintained trails to off-trail alpine terrain, requiring wayfinding and self-sufficiency. Conditions include loose, rocky scree and Class 2+ to Class 3 scrambling, particularly between La Junta and Wasatch Mountain. The trail offers significant exposure and high-consequence zones. Parking is available at the trailhead. The hike typically takes about 10 hours and is rated difficult, suitable for experienced hikers.