Trail: Red Mountain Number 3 Trail Distance: 5.6 miles roundtrip Elevation: 1,824 ft. Location: Uncompahgre National Forest, CO. Permits: Permits are not required for day hikes.
Starting from Red Mountain Pass on the Million Dollar Highway, the Red Mountain Number 3 Trail is one hike that should not be missed! I was so happy to be able to meet up with a longtime friend while she was living in Silverton for the season, and we knocked this hike out in September when the weather was absolutely beautiful and refreshing.
When to visit? The best time to hike the trail is from June to October when the trail is still free of snow. Experiencing this in the middle of fall would be an incredible experience since the views from Red Mountain are already breathtaking and beautiful.
How’s the hike? The hike begins from the Million Dollar Highway at the Red Mountain Number 3 trailhead. It takes approximately 5.6 miles roundtrip to complete the hike with a relatively easy elevation gain of less than 2,000 ft. It took us a total of 1 hour and 45 minutes to complete, but we did spend some time hanging out at the top, admiring the views, and of course taking photos, cause if you don’t get any pictures- did it even happen?
What to pack? We both packed a day pack and 1L of water for our hike. Since we had plans to have lunch in town, there was no need to pack a lunch, but carrying snacks is always essential. The trail is well maintained. Wear hiking boots, or trail runners, and bring trekking poles as the descent can be a little slippery with loose rock. After completing the Colorado Trail, I learned it’s best to always be prepared for any kind of weather in Colorado- pack layers, you won’t be disappointed.
