Sunshine Mesa to Navajo Basin Route

The Sunshine to Navajo Route is a challenging point-to-point hike or trail run in the San Juan Mountains, traversing high-alpine terrain with dramatic mountain and lake views. The route connects the Wilson Mesa Trailhead (accessed via Sunshine Mesa Road, which typically requires a four-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive vehicle) to the Navajo Basin Trailhead. Because of the rugged, technical terrain, this route is best completed as a one-way point-to-point shuttle hike rather than an out-and-back. Beginning at the Wilson Mesa Trailhead, the trail ascends through a mixed forest of pine and aspen. At approximately 1 mile, the route continues straight at the first junction to join the Lizard Head Trail. Near the 2.25-mile mark, the trail crosses a large rock slope and a creek. Hikers can cross either before or after the rocky slope to relocate the path, which continues past a campsite, waterfalls, and cascades. Around 4.25 miles, the trail enters a section of tall, defined willows as it gains elevation, offering views of Lizard Head to the east and the Wilson group of peaks to the west. At 4.75 miles, the route turns right at a junction. The trail climbs via switchbacks through talus slopes where route-finding can be challenging; cairns mark the general direction. Reaching the ridge requires navigating a short but mandatory section of loose Class 2 or solid Class 3 scrambling. From the ridge crest, an optional 1-mile round-trip side excursion leads to the summit of Wilson Peak, which involves more advanced Class 3 scrambling. From the ridge, the main route descends into Navajo Basin, following a well-defined rocky trail marked with large cairns. Mount Wilson and El Diente Peak tower above the trail to the left. The path passes Navajo Lake, a scenic spot nestled among the peaks that is popular for camping and fishing. Beyond the lake, the trail climbs briefly before beginning a long, steady descent to the Navajo Basin Trailhead.