Lobo Overlook sits atop the Continental Divide, just east of Pagosa Springs Colorado. From downtown Pagosa, drive east on Highway 160 over Wolf Creek Pass. The turn for Lobo Overlook lies between the east side of the summit and the Wolf Creek Ski Area. From the overlook you will find great panoramic views of the Wolf Creek Ski Area, Highway 160 and the San Juan Mountains.
Are you looking for something to do with the family, or maybe a picnic spot with tremendous views and sight seeing? The Lobo Overlook is a perfect spot to visit. The Overlook is about a 30-35 minute drive from downtown Pagosa Springs and sits at just under 12,000 feet above sea level. Easily reached by car but some people may enjoy the strenuous hike up the gravel road to the overlook. Restrooms and several picnic tables and grills are available adjacent to the parking lot.
There are few places where you can drive to the top of the Continental Divide that also provide the expansive views found at the Overlook. Summertime is the best time to visit as the road is open, allowing you to drive to the top. During the winter months, the road is closed to vehicles. However you can easily hike, snowshoe or ski to the top since the road is plowed to allow access to the radio towers.
Hiking from Lobo Overlook
If you are looking for a hike, Lobo Overlook is a great starting point to access the Continental Divide Trail. Note that the Lobo Pass trailhead is found behind the radio tower and not at the Overlook parking area. The Lobo Pass trail starts here and connects to the Continental Divide Trail quickly. Heading south down the CTD brings you over highway 160 and up Alberta peak. To the north, the CDT heads towards Silverton.
Directions
From downtown Pagosa Springs drive east on Highway 160 towards Wolf Creek Pass. Just past the summit of Wolf Creek Pass is the Lobo Overlook turnoff, Forest Service road 402, on the left. If you reach the Wolf Creek Ski Area on Highway 160, you have gone too far. Take the FS 402 road 1.5 miles, and at the fork, continue straight, following the sign to the overlook parking lot.