Hiking Guide To Red Mountain 3 In Colorado: Complete Guide
On my hike to Red Mountain in Colorado, also known as Hiking Guide To Red Mountain 3 In Colorado comes from unforgettable reasons, such as breathtaking views, cool mining ruins, and a photo above that hides gut-wrenching hours of my life.
I brought my dog Elgieon a random Monday in mid-October, had the whole trail to ourselves, which I normally love, but that time I wished people around, after I had gotten lost, felt alone, thought I’d lost him forever, began to worry, but he was okay, a storyI’ll share soon; first, you need know the trail itself.
Explore the Rainbow Mountains of the US
I was excited to visit Red Mountain in Colorado, as this trip instantly reminds me of Rainbow Mountain in Peru back in 2016. As a total sucker for colorful mountains, hiking in the San Juan Mountains truly never disappoints, and that feeling hits the moment you arrive.
Where Are the Rainbow Mountains in Colorado?
The Rainbow Mountains, actually called the Red Mountains, are located off Red Mountain Pass in Colorado, between Ouray and Silverton in the San Juan Mountains of southwest Colorado. I chose to hike and hike the third of the three peaks because it is the highest, beautiful, and my favorite and in my opinion this area makes colorful Coloradospecial, even though I have explored parts of the Colorado Rockies and the San Juans before.
What to Know Before Hiking Red Mountain 3
Before you hikeRed Mountain 3, know that the trailis more of a literal road, an old mining roadwith dilapidated mining structuresthat are interestingto lookat. The last half mileis very steep, so I often stoppedand saton the ground numerous timeson the way up.
Parkingcan be weird; if you have an AWDwith enough clearance, you can drive rightup to the gateand shavea mileoff your hike. There is spacefor about 4 carsor 5 cars, but if not, you may need to park on the shoulderof Highway 550or partwayup the roadnear St. Paul Lodge, acrossfrom the road, which can be a small problem.
What to Bring on the Rainbow Mountain
Before you hike Red Mountain 3, make sure to bring plenty of water in a bottle, extra clothes, boots, sunscreen, toilet paper, and a Ziploc bag. Even on short hikes, it’s smart to prepare for accident-prone moments and wipes for tears or muddy hands. I learned this the hard way when Elgie and I had to eat snow for hydration on a chilly morning.
The trail can get slippery with small rocks and ridgeline steps, so stay careful and take your time. Hiking a half-mile down from the summit gives a perspective full of colorful views that really remind you of Peru. In the early morning, cloudy skies and windy conditions add dramatic lighting for photos, but always plan enough hours to enjoy the experience and make it back to Ouray for hot chocolate and a cookie.
When to Visit Red Mountain 3
The road to Red Mountain is unpaved and one of the highest in Colorado, so snow can linger early in the summer season. From my experience, July-Sept is the best time to visit, as the trail is usually accessible before the first winter storm in Fall.
I’m not local, but I’ve come to understand that weather can change quickly, so it’s smart to plan your visit carefully. Always aim to check conditions depending on the year to avoid surprises and enjoy your hike safely.
How to Reach Red Mountain 3 from Red Mountain Pass
To reach Red Mountain 3, start at the trailhead shown on Google Maps near Red Mountain Pass along the Million Dollar Highway (550). You can drive about 0.8 miles on Forest Service Road 825 toward the abandoned St. Paul Lodge and St. Paul Hut. While a high clearance 4wd makes it smoother, even an AWD or non-high clearance small SUV can handle the dirt road with care.
From here, start your hike on private property but be respectful. The trail is short, easy, and suitable for all levels, though it gains 1,372 ft of elevation in under 2 miles. Follow the wide road, watch for the junction about a quarter-mile in, and continue along the Red Mountain Three trail to reach the summit.
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At the top, Red Mountain No 3offers 360-degree viewsof the beautiful mountains. If you time it right, the sunrise crept overthe peaks just as we wentup and caughtthe stunning scenery overthe horizon. The trail startsgently, giving you plenty of time to pay attentionand not missany highlights along the way.
Entering the Trail
As you approach the gate, you’ll see a sign that tells you’ve reached the trail entrance. You know this is the point to start your adventure. I always take a moment here to pause, breathe, and get ready for the hike, enjoying the quiet before stepping onto the path.
The Gate and Parking Situation
I drove my AWD sedan partway up the road to the gate, feeling a little afraid to try the full way. There was only a small space in front of St. Paul Lodge where my car could be parked, and it felt a bit trespasser-y, so I stayed comfortable but alert.
During the hike, I didn’t see any other hikers for a long time, which left a small doubt in the back of my mind about being in the right place. Still, the quiet gave me a chance to focus on the trail and enjoy the peaceful start of the adventure.
The Hiking Experience
A steady, desolate climb began as I and Elgie climbed the trail, feeling the winds brush past. Walking a bit, we noticed the old, cool structures along the mining road, with views of the San Juans that made the cost of effort feel better.
At one point, my pants got wet after spilling water in my lap from the car, but I had to decide, and I decided to go right in the middle of the trail. There weren’t any convenient bushes to hide, but it didn’t matter—the deserted path made it strangely freeing.
We stopped for photos, despite taking a first wrong turn that severely delayed our way. Each turn of the day revealed pretty views and a right path forward, making the hike an adventure full of change, start, and discovery.
A Wrong Turn
We took a wrong path at first, blissfully ignorant of the trail ahead. The trail winds up and behind an old building pictured above, where the road veers right—the only route we saw initially.
In the distance, a cabin and a few yurts appeared, proving the spot wasn’t deserted. This place could make for some cool glamping too, giving a unique touch to the hiking experience.
The Casa Experience
As I moved forward on the trail, I noticed a cabin known as Casa, its log walls weathered and established 1812 carved on the front. A skull, possibly animal, was mounted on the porch, while another rested on a table, making me curious about its history. The building seemed abandoned, with no signs of life or trespassing, and the driveway narrowed to gravel tracks behind the house, yet I felt right continuing, though wondering if there was an alternative way.
I hiked closer, approaching the property carefully, wrapped in the quiet of the winding trail. I looked back, hoping someone might come out and tell me to get off, but the whole scene felt strangely still. I kept moving, marched along the long path, and couldn’t shake the feeling that each step closer revealed more of the trail’s hidden stories.
The Hiking Experience
Whoops! Elgie and I reached a vantage point and I knew the correct road by spotting other hikers. In those few seconds, I couldn’t help but curse myself for geetting lost on a mining road that was clear to see and seemed easy to follow.
I had a choice to make—either find a low spot and slide down through snow on my butt to the path, or backtrack. That second decision added to the mistakes of the day.
Backtracking on the Trail
While hiking Red Mountain 3, I backtracked when I noticed the path seemed wrong. I walked slowly up the hill, looked around the area, and stopped at the second old mining building near Casa. My dog sniffed the surroundings, absorbed in the scents, while I called his name, feeling a little nervous.
I figured I had taken the wrong steps, so I realized it was best to return and check the clearing where hikers often pass. I went inside the building, looked for signs of anyone lost, and tried to ask for help from hikers if they were anywhere nearby. My legs, a bit short for such climbs, and my 12-year-old dog’s stamina meant we took our little way carefully to find the correct path.
Oh where, oh where has my little dog gone?
On a previous hike, I walked the way back toward the Casa, feeling a mix of panic and thinking that wasn’t very clear. My doggy instinct told me he might lead me to a spot near the creek or parking area, so I kept my car waiting in mind, trying a reasonable thought for the time.
I shouted his name over and over, but I later read you’re not supposed to do that with dogs because it can scare them or cause trouble. My heart was racing, and I feared the worst. At the gate, a few cars passed by, but no single soul was in view, only hikers at a distance on the top of the hill. With no cell service along the Million Dollar Highway, I was completely alone, worried for my missing friend and needing help.
The St. Paul Lodgelooked quiet, with no signs of life, possibly out of operationin the off-seasonbetween summer skiing, leaving a desolatefeeling.
Time to Panic
I started along the trail, mountain looming high ahead, feeling the steep incline take my breath away. Alone, I sobbed and bawled, my panic rising as I tried to walk normally but only faster made it worse. I had to stop, sit on the ground, and catch my breath, pushing forward slowly despite the high altitude.
I hyperventilating, my sense of direction failing, every sound in the wilderness made me anxious. My hearing strained for a howl I had heard once or twice over the past 12 years, hoping it would give me hope. Time felt like it could freeze as I alternated between despair and hopefulness, panic surging with every step.
I looked back at the place where I last seen my poor baby, worried about separation and distress. The world seemed to close in, alternating between what could be safety and danger, each taken path uncertain. While I got nowhere fast, I kept pushing forward, letting hope guide me despite the bad feeling pressing on my chest.
Return to the Casa
As I turned the corner, I could hear the bark and kept calling Elgie’s name, trying to follow the direction of the sound. I realized I had taken the wrong path earlier, so I raced back as fast as I could, feeling heavy breaths fill the air.
The imposing Casa came into view, its wraparound porch lined with skulls, and I saw Elgie pacing along the length of the porch. I was confused at first, unsure if he would come to his owner, but I kept moving closer, climbing the steps, my mud-covered boots slipping on the red mountain trail.
He had a big time running around before I realized I wasn’t there, and the lost dogs’ panic was clear, displayed in every stand, view, and movement he made. Standing there, I felt the first connection return as he finally came, reminding me how unpredictable time can be in the mountains.
The Hike Must Go On
I immediately put the leash on Elgie and gave him a hug, ready to leave the motel and cuddle later after a long day. The mud made every step a little harder, but we climbed on, watching hikers go back down the trail. I told my story to those we met, and though it sounded insane, it kept us moving.
The steepness and commotion left me completely spent, so I took several breaks, which proved wise. I drank more water than I had expected because of all the chaos, and by the summit, we were eating snow to stay hydrated. Several moments like this make you think twice, but I figured we had decided to push on, ran ahead when needed, and kept bringing plenty of energy and more determination than ever before.
The Rainbow Mountain Summit and Beyond
When I reached the summit, the views were truly amazing, and I didn’t want to go back just yet. Instead, I decided to explore the ridges beyond for even more breathtaking scenery.
Even though we’d already had a long day, I didn’t want to put extra stress on Elgie, so we took our time, paused for a nap at the hotel, and shared a cozy cuddle before heading out again.
Where to Stay in Ouray
When visiting Ouray, this charming mining town offers unique places to stay that match every style and budget. For a Budget-Friendly option, Ouray Main Street Inn is a cozy lodge with clean, spacious, modern-style rooms, conveniently located in the middle of town, pet-friendly, with a friendly host, suites, and individual rooms, making it a true gem.
If you prefer something Mid-Range, Box Canyon Lodge & Hot Springs is a popular choice. This Victorian-style hotel is slightly off the main street for added seclusion and has 7 cedar hot tubs filled with nearby mineral hot springs, all accessible to guests seeking relaxation.
For Luxury, Beaumont Hotel & Spa is recognized among the Best Places in the World by CN Traveler. This adult-only hotel has nicer, bigger rooms, a full-size spa, style, and luxury at a price less than other lodges, offering a perfect retreat after exploring Ouray.
FAQs – Hiking Guide To Red Mountain 3 In Colorado
1. How difficult is the Red Mountain 3 hike?
The Red Mountain 3 hike is moderate to strenuous, with steep sections, uneven terrain, and an elevation gain of around 1,500–2,000 feet. Hikers should have good stamina and proper gear.
2. When is the best time to hike Red Mountain 3?
Late spring through early fall (May–October) is ideal. Snow and ice can make trails slippery in winter, while summer afternoons may be hot and sunny, so early starts are recommended.
3. What should I bring for a safe and enjoyable hike?
Essentials include sturdy hiking boots, water, snacks, layered clothing, a map or GPS, and sun protection. Trekking poles can help with steep or rocky sections.
4. Are there scenic spots or colorful areas along the trail?
Yes. Red Mountain 3 features vivid mineral-rich cliffs, alpine wildflowers, and panoramic views of surrounding peaks. Photographers and nature lovers will find plenty of striking scenery.
5. How can hikers stay safe if they get lost on Red Mountain 3?
Carry a map or GPS device, let someone know your itinerary, and stay on marked trails. If lost, stay calm, stay put, and use your phone or whistle to signal for help. Always check trail conditions before setting out.
Conclusion:
On my hike to Red Mountain in Colorado—also called Rainbow Mountain—I experienced breathtaking views, eerie mining ruins, and a gut-wrenching moment that had me fearing I’d lost my dog, Elgie, forever. It was mid-October on a quiet Monday, and though the trail was almost empty (usually my favorite), I wished there were more hikers nearby when panic set in.
