The best running trails in Whitehead Gulch Wilderness Study Area
79
runners
16
runs
Jogging in Whitehead Gulch Wilderness Study Area offers routes through rugged mountainous terrain, characterized by elevations ranging from approximately 9,200 to 12,160 feet. The region features portions of the steep, forested Animas River Canyon and encompasses alpine streams and tundra, providing varied landscapes for running. Diverse vegetation, including spruce, aspen, and willow, adds to the natural environment. This area provides opportunities for unconfined recreation within its roadless expanses.
Best jogging routes in Whitehead Gulch Wilderness Study Area
- The most popular jogging route is Kendall Peak Road run — Silverton, a 9.3 miles (15.0 km) trail that takes 2 hours 23 minutes to complete, featuring significant elevation gain.
- Another top favourite among local runners is Rainbow Trail run — Silverton, a moderate 3.9 miles (6.3 km) path offering scenic views near Silverton.
- Local runners also love the Little Molas Lake via Colorado Trail — San Juan County, a 4.7 miles (7.6 km) trail leading through varied terrain, often completed in about 58 minutes.
- Jogging in Whitehead Gulch Wilderness Study Area is defined by mountainous terrain, the Animas River Canyon, and alpine environments. The network offers options for different ability levels, from moderate paths to more difficult ascents.
- The guide includes highly-rated routes that showcase the best of the region's landscape. More than 60 runners have used komoot to explore Whitehead Gulch Wilderness Study Area's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 25, 2026
23
runners
15.0km
02:23
870m
870m
The Kendall Mountain Road offers a truly epic high-altitude jogging experience, climbing through rugged terrain to deliver unparalleled views of Silverton and the vast San Juan Mountains. As you ascend this historic mining road, the landscape transforms from gravel and rock to exposed alpine tundra and scree, with fascinating glimpses of old mine remnants along the way. It's a demanding route, but the reward is a profound sense of accomplishment and breathtaking panoramas from elevations up to 13,000 feet.
Planning your visit requires careful consideration, as this difficult 9.3-mile (15.0 km) route with 2839 feet (865 metres) of elevation gain is best tackled in the summer and fall. The high altitude means thinner air, making the estimated 2 hours and 23 minutes duration feel even more strenuous. Be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions, including potential thunderstorms, and ensure you have adequate water and gear for an exposed mountain environment.
This trail is not just a jogging route; it's also a popular and challenging path for off-road enthusiasts and the site of the annual Kendall Mountain Run, a renowned mountain race. Its historical significance as a mining road, combined with the dramatic high-mountain scenery and the transition above the treeline, makes it a standout option for experienced joggers seeking a memorable and physically demanding adventure in the Colorado Rockies.
3
runners
6.30km
00:43
140m
140m
If you're looking for a moderate jogging route that offers a quick escape into the mountains, the Rainbow Trail is a solid choice. This 3.9-mile (6.3 km) segment, with its 470 feet (143 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 43 minutes to complete, winding through a mix of pine and aspen forests and open green meadows. You'll encounter varied terrain, from smooth stretches to rocky, rooted sections, all while enjoying expansive views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and the chance to spot wildflowers.
Planning your visit to this Rainbow Trail jogging location means preparing for an average elevation of 9,000 feet, so altitude can be a factor. While specific parking information for this particular trailhead isn't detailed, arriving early is generally a good strategy for popular trail access points. The trail is shared with various users, including hikers and mountain bikers, so maintain awareness and courtesy on the path.
The Rainbow Trail is a historic route, dating back to 1912, originally built for grazing access and firefighting, making it one of the country's oldest long-distance trails. This segment offers a glimpse into its diverse character, connecting you to the broader 100-mile system that links with the Continental Divide and Colorado Trails. It's a great way to experience the high-alpine environment and witness landscape rejuvenation in areas affected by past fires.
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2
runners
7.65km
00:59
160m
160m
The Colorado Trail: Little Molas Lake offers a fantastic high-alpine jogging experience, winding through expansive meadows and past the picturesque Little Molas Lake itself. You'll be treated to panoramic views of the Grenadier Range and West Needle Mountains, with wildflowers often blooming in July, creating a vibrant backdrop to your run. The terrain is varied, providing both accessible sections and more challenging stretches as you navigate the mountainous landscape.
This moderate 4.8-mile (7.6 km) route, with 514 feet (157 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in approximately 58 minutes, making it an ideal option for a quick, invigorating outing. The trailhead is easily reached via an unpaved road off Highway 550, generally suitable for most cars in good weather. Remember to account for the high-altitude conditions and plan your visit during the warmer months for the best experience.
What makes this segment particularly notable is its role as an excellent jumping-off point for the iconic Colorado Trail, offering a true taste of the high-alpine environment. Beyond jogging, the area is a recreational hub popular for mountain biking, fishing, and snowshoeing in winter, highlighting its versatility and natural beauty within the San Juan Mountains.
2.85km
00:22
60m
60m
The Molas Lake Trail Loop offers a genuinely rewarding jogging experience, wrapping around the picturesque Molas Lake with constant views of the majestic San Juan Mountains. You'll find yourself amidst open meadows, a legacy of the 1879 Lime Creek Burn, with the chance to spot wildlife like deer and elk. The terrain is mostly accessible, even featuring some paved sections, making it a smooth run through breathtaking alpine scenery.
Planning your visit is straightforward, with parking available right at the Molas Lake Trailhead. There are no permits or fees required for day use, making it an easy stop. The best time to experience this route is from late spring through early fall; aim for early July if you want to catch the wildflowers at their peak. Keep in mind that while the physical effort is easy, the high altitude of over 10,500 feet means the air is thinner, which can add a unique challenge.
This trail is a fantastic entry point into the San Juan National Forest and borders the Weminuche Wilderness, offering a taste of high-altitude jogging without extreme difficulty. It's also dog-friendly, provided your pet is leashed, and provides access to the much larger Colorado Trail system if you're looking for more extensive adventures. The minimal 207 feet (63 metres) of elevation gain over 1.8 miles (2.9 km) makes it an easy 21-minute jog, perfect for acclimatization or a relaxed outing.
11.9km
01:47
580m
580m
This segment of the Animas River via Colorado Trail offers a rugged jogging experience, guiding you through a diverse landscape that transitions from high-alpine views to riverside tranquility. You'll start near the Molas Lake Trailhead, climbing steadily to gain impressive vistas of the Grenadier Range before descending towards the Animas River itself, with Molas Creek adding to the natural beauty along the way. It's a demanding route, but the changing scenery makes the effort worthwhile.
Planning your visit means preparing for a challenging outing; this is a difficult 7.4-mile (11.9 km) jogging route with a substantial 1895 feet (578 metres) of elevation gain, taking approximately 1 hour and 46 minutes. The trailhead at Molas Lake is your starting point, so ensure you have adequate parking arrangements. Always pack plenty of water and check current weather and trail conditions, as mountain environments can be unpredictable.
While the Animas River Trail in Durango is known for its easy, paved sections, this specific route, the Animas River via Colorado Trail, taps into a more adventurous side of the region's trail network. It offers a unique blend of the Colorado Trail's wilderness character with the allure of the Animas River, providing a distinct experience for those seeking a more strenuous and scenic jogging challenge in the San Juan County area.
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Popular around Whitehead Gulch Wilderness Study Area
Tips from the Community
Little Molas Lake is a high-altitude body of water at about 11,000 feet. It is located nearby parking lots and provides easy access to the Colorado Trail. It is the ideal place to enjoy a packed lunch before or after your ride.
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Little Molas Lake is a small body of water found off the Colorado trail. At 11,000 feet, the lake is surrounded by beautiful mountains. There is a picnic area along the banks of the lake, so it is a great place for a break to enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
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This is a perfect spot for a picture postcard view of the Grenadier Range: You can see Garfield Peak, Greystone Peak, Electric Peak with Arrow Peak, Vestal Peak and Trinity Peaks in the background (from right). The Grenadiers and Needles are the only places in the San Juans where the basement rock withstood the range's period of volcanism. The range was uplifted around 70 million years ago. During the San Juans' period of volcanic activity, nearly the entire surface was covered with layers of lava and ash flows, but the volcanic flows would only lap at the Grenadiers' feet.
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The Molas Lake Trailhead has parking, but no restrooms. The trail leads to the popular Molas Lake and has a connector trail to the Colorado Trail.
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Molas Lake is a popular 25-acre body of water close to Silverton. Many visitors come to the lake for hiking, trail running, bird watching and swimming. There is also a popular campground on the banks of the lake.
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Here the road ends and splits into a trail. To the north is Kendall Mountain, and you can follow the western trail up along its ridge. To the east, the trail leads up towards Kendall Peak.
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The road up Kendall Peak is a rough PHV track. This is a great spot to run and hike, as the grade is not too steep nor the trail too technical and it leads straight into the mountains from town.
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The Rainbow Trail runs along the foothills of Anvil Mountain to where it crosses the Million Dollar Highway and climbs Bear Creek. Presumably, the trail gets its name from the multicolored mineral deposits that paint the mountainside as it runs down toward Mineral Creek. Victoria Mine sits at the east end of the trail, and the South Anvil Mine is along the middle of the trail.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available in Whitehead Gulch Wilderness Study Area?
There are 16 diverse running routes documented in the Whitehead Gulch Wilderness Study Area on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy paths to more challenging ascents.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the jogging routes in Whitehead Gulch?
Joggers in Whitehead Gulch Wilderness Study Area will encounter rugged mountainous terrain, with elevations ranging from approximately 9,200 to 12,160 feet. The landscape includes steep, forested sections of the Animas River Canyon, as well as alpine streams and tundra. This varied environment provides both challenging inclines and breathtaking panoramic views.
Are there any easy or beginner-friendly running trails in the area?
Yes, while much of the area is rugged, there are a few easier options. For instance, the Molas Lake loop via Colorado Trail — San Juan County is an easy 1.8-mile (2.9 km) route, perfect for a less strenuous run.
What natural features or viewpoints can I see while running in Whitehead Gulch?
The Whitehead Gulch Wilderness Study Area is rich in natural beauty. You can expect to see diverse vegetation including spruce, aspen, and willow, especially along the Animas River Canyon. The high elevations offer stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountainous landscape and alpine tundra. While specific named viewpoints aren't listed, the entire area provides a sense of wildness and solitude.
Are there any circular running routes in Whitehead Gulch Wilderness Study Area?
Yes, there are circular routes available. The Molas Lake loop via Colorado Trail — San Juan County is a great example of a loop trail, offering a complete circuit back to your starting point.
Is Whitehead Gulch Wilderness Study Area suitable for dog-friendly running?
The Whitehead Gulch Wilderness Study Area is managed to maintain its wilderness character, offering roadless expanses for exploration. Generally, wilderness study areas allow dogs, but it's always best to check specific regulations for the area, especially regarding leash laws and waste disposal, to ensure a responsible visit. The rugged terrain might be challenging for some dogs.
What is the best time of year to go jogging in Whitehead Gulch?
Given the high elevations (up to 12,160 feet) and mountainous terrain, the best time for jogging is typically during the warmer months, from late spring through early autumn. During winter, snow and ice can make many trails impassable or require specialized gear. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Are there any permits required for running in Whitehead Gulch Wilderness Study Area?
Wilderness Study Areas like Whitehead Gulch are managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to preserve their wilderness characteristics. Generally, day-use permits are not required for recreational activities like running in WSAs. However, it's always advisable to consult the official BLM website for any specific regulations or changes, especially if planning an overnight trip or group activity. You can find more information on the BLM's programs at blm.gov.
Where can I find parking for running trails in Whitehead Gulch Wilderness Study Area?
Specific parking information for individual trailheads is often detailed on komoot route pages. Given the area's remote and wild nature, parking might be limited to designated pull-offs or small lots at trail access points. It's recommended to check the starting point details for your chosen route on komoot for the most accurate parking information.
Are there any challenging running routes for experienced runners?
Absolutely. The Whitehead Gulch Wilderness Study Area is known for its rugged and mountainous terrain, offering several difficult routes. For a significant challenge, consider the Kendall Peak Road run — Silverton, a 9.3-mile (15.0 km) trail with substantial elevation gain, or the Animas River via Colorado Trail — Molas Pass Wilderness Study Area, which is 7.4 miles (11.9 km) with considerable ascent.
What is the average length of running routes in this area?
The running routes in Whitehead Gulch Wilderness Study Area vary significantly in length. You can find shorter, moderate trails like the Rainbow Trail run — Silverton at 3.9 miles (6.3 km), up to longer, more challenging runs such as the Kendall Peak Road run — Silverton which spans 9.3 miles (15.0 km). The average length across all routes is approximately 4.7 miles (7.6 km).
What do other runners enjoy most about jogging in Whitehead Gulch Wilderness Study Area?
Runners frequently praise the sense of 'unconfined recreation and solitude' that the Whitehead Gulch Wilderness Study Area offers. The dramatic mountainous landscape, diverse vegetation, and the opportunity to experience high-altitude alpine environments are often highlighted as key attractions. The area provides a true wilderness experience away from crowds.
Most popular routes in Whitehead Gulch Wilderness Study Area
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