Ballard Mountain

Ballard Mountain (12,818') is a prominent peak that lies just outside of Telluride. The hike is short but strenuous, gaining around 4,000' elevation (with most of that in just 2 miles). You'll begin from the very popular Bear Creek Trailhead. Street parking is limited to 2 hours here, so you'll likely need to park at the Carnegie Lot, adding an additional short stroll to the trailhead. Follow the Bear Creek Trail as it ascends slightly for about 3/4ths of a mile, then turn left onto the unmarked side trail. You'll cross over Bear Creek (there are logs here to keep your feet dry) then turn right and follow beside the creek for a while. The trail then begins the massive ascent up the west side of Ballard. The switchbacks are endless as you climb through the forest. Eventually you'll gain the summit ridge and have some fantastic views down toward Telluride, and up to the summit of Ballard. Continue up the ridge, following the obvious trail until you reach the bottom of a steep, loose gully. You'll need to scramble up this small gully with rotten rock to get to the summit, using hands when necessary. From the summit you'll have amazing views of all the surrounding San Juan peaks, and Silver Lake below. Once you've soaked it all in, return the way you came.