サンフアン郡の天然記念物・トップ15

This humble stream is the headwaters of the Rio Grande. Here, at the base of Canby Mountain, this stream will grow and transform into the 4th longest river in the United States, stretching 1,896 miles bordering Texas and Mexico till it reaches its endpoint in the Gulf.

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.

Island lake is a cerulean-blue alpine lake nestled just north of Ice Lake below Grant Peak. This is one of the best views you will get in the Ice Lakes Basin.

At 12,968 feet, Engineer Mountain doesn't quite qualify as a Colorado 13er. That being said, it is one of the most unique and fun mountains in the San Juans. The ridge up to the summit involves some class 2 and class 3 moves, but the route is clear and easy to follow. This is a great route to introduce someone to class 3 travel, and you are not lacking any views once you reach the summit.

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.

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.

Red Mountain Pass is nestled within the San Juan Mountains and reaches an elevation of 11,018 feet. It is surrounded with dramatic landscapes decked with red and yellow hues, showcasing the region's rich mineral deposits. The pass is also part of the Million Dollar Highway, offering panoramic vistas and towering peaks.

Columbine Lake is a high glacial lake at 12,693 feet and surrounded by rugged peaks and alpine meadows. The first two miles of the ride climb pretty steeply, but flattens as you get closer to the lake.