One of the best hikes to bring your family and friends to is the Ice Cave Ridge hike. It’s a short out and back hike with beautiful views of the Piedra river, San Juan mountains and Weminuche peaks. It’s a 30 minute drive north from Pagosa Springs but well worth the time to visit.
- Elevation Start: 7708 ft at trailhead
- Elevation at Peak: 8060ft
- Trail: Out and Back
- Trail Length: 3.0 miles total
- Allowed: Hiking, Dogs
- Ice Cave Ridge Trailhead
Ice Caves
Beginning at the shared trailhead with the Piedra River trail, the trail quickly splits to the right. The Ice Cave Ridge trail is uphill the entire way to the ridge. Even though the trail isn’t steep, some may need to take a break to catch their breath. The majority of the hike passes through tree cover with no views until you reach the top of the ridge. However, do not miss one of the best parts of the hike – the Ice Caves. Hidden along the left hand side of the trail are several fissures. Be sure to keep your eye out for them. Falling into one could cause serious injury. Do explore the fissures or “caves” during the hike, just be safe. In the summertime, the fissures still have snow and ice, hence the name Ice Cave Ridge. The temperature is drastically cooler down inside the fissures, so this is a great way to cool off in the summer heat. In the wintertime the fissures can be snow covered and hard to see. Be very cautious as to not to fall into one.
Scenic Ridge Views
After exploring the ice caves, the trail continues uphill until you reach the ridge. After passing the fissures, and heading further up the forest road, the trail will split off to the right. We suggest taking the right at the split, as the trail leads directly to the ridge. Take some time to walk around the edge of the ridge to take in views. Below is the Piedra River and Williams Creek. You will also see the Weminuche Wilderness to the north, and if you look closely, you can catch a glimpse of Pagosa Peak to the east. On your return, you may choose to see where the forest road travels. It will lead you towards a a different edge of the ridge where you can take in even more views.
Directions to Ice Cave Ridge Trailhead
From US 160, drive North on Piedra Road (CR 600/FS 631) for 16-miles. The parking lot for the trailhead is located on the left-hand side just after crossing the Piedra River bridge. Note that the parking lot and trailhead are shared with the Piedra River Trail and is large enough to hold many cars.
Google Directions to Ice Cave Ridge Trailhead
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