The V Rock trail is a medium to advanced hike due to the steep elevation climb beginning the hike. The first mile and a half climbs over 1000ft requiring some steep climbing sections which will wear out most hikers. It’s never a problem to take a rest break before venturing onwards.
- Elevation Start: 9600 ft at trailhead
- Elevation at Peak: 10,326ft
- Trail: Out and Back
- Trail Length: 7.5 miles total (3.8 miles one way)
- Allowed: Hiking, Dogs, Horses
- V Rock Trailhead No. 578
The hike is a one-way out and back trail, however it ends at the Leche Creek Trail No. 576 intersection. If you are looking for a longer hike, continuing the hike at the intersection of Leche Creek Trail is an option. But most just hike the out and back for a day hike. An alternative is to hike up 2.5 miles to Geode Hill and return. Geode Hill is a scenic stopping point and is a nice option for a shorter hike.
V Rock Arborglyphs
Along the first couple of miles will be many arborglyphs etched in the aspen trees. Although not healthy for trees, arborglyphs are fun to read including the carved names a dates going back to the sheepherders from the 1920’s and 1930’s. Please don’t etch your name and date into the aspens because it is not healthy for the trees.
Geode Hill Day Hike
At the 2.3 mile mark of the hike a large hill on the left-hand side of the trail will be visible with a faint path leading up. This is the detour to Geode hill. So named due to the small geodes that are found on the hill. Scenic views of the area are visible from the hill including near-by mountains and the Blanco River Basin. A perfect lunch spot before returning to the trailhead to continue onwards.
Continuing on after Geode Hill wanders along the edge of a ridge before heading back into meadows. It’s another 1.5 miles from the hill to the intersection with the Leche Creek trail.
Directions to V Rock Trailhead
From downtown Pagosa Springs, take US 160 west to the US84 junction. Take US84 south towards Chama for almost 20 miles. Buckles Lake Road (FS663) will be on your left, and continue on FS663 for 7.5 miles until the trailhead parking area. This trailhead is shared with Buckles Lake Trail