Little Blanco Trail is rated difficult due to the steep elevation climbs. However the scenic views are well worth the effort. The trail leads through several large aspen groves, so hiking the Little Blanco Trail during the fall is amazing. During the summer months, colorful wildflowers cover the landscape. The first two miles climb over 1300ft with winding switchbacks, which make the climb a little bit easier. Little Blanco Trail #571 shares a trailhead with Quartz Lake Hike #568 and Quartz Creek trail #571.
- Elevation Start: 9,959ft
- Elevation at Peak: 12,250ft (out and back)
- Trail: Out and Back
- Trail Length: 14.8 miles total
- Allowed: Hiking, Dogs, and Horses
- Little Blanco Trail #572
Since the trailhead is at nearly 10,000ft, the trail can still be covered in snow until the late spring and early summer. Thus, the best time to hike the Little Blanco Trail is during the late summer and early fall. Quickly climbing to over 11,000ft allows for sweeping views of the landscape and the nearby East Range mountains such as Square Top Mountain, Nipple Mountain, and Blackhead Peak.
Shorter Day Hike to the Keyhole “Window”
An option to shorten the hike is to only hike the first 3 miles to the Keyhole or “Window” near Quartz Ridge. The 3 mile hike gains over 2000 ft in elevation, giving you a good workout. This shorter hike culminates with spectacular views and is a great spot for a lunch break.
Directions to Little Blanco Trailhead
From downtown Pagosa Springs, drive east on US 160 to US 84. Turn right and drive south on US 84 to Mill Creek Road (CR 302), just across the street from Tractor Supply. Turn left on to Mill Creek Road and drive for 6.3 miles, keeping right at the fork onto Nipple Mountain Road (FS 665). Continue on Nipple Mountain Road for 9.7 miles to the trailhead. Note that both Mill Creek Rd and Nipple Mountain Rd are gravel roads and be rough and dusty.
Photos from Little Blanco Trail Hike
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