If you want to get up into the high country and experience the San Juans from 12,000 feet, Sneffels is your trail. This hike is another favorite for those who have become acclimated and want to enjoy a full day adventure.

The Sneffels Highline Trail is a 13 mile loop that begins right in the town of Telluride at the Jud Wiebe trailhead. At the top of North Aspen Street, cross over the bridge and follow the Jud Wiebe west through beautiful aspen groves until you come to a junction. You will notice that if you veer to the left, you will follow the signed “Deep Creek” trail. If you accidently turn right, you’ll see a sign for Jud Wiebe trail which you no longer want to follow! Following the Deep Creek trail, veer right onto the “Mill Creek” trail. From here, you will continue to gain some good elevation as the trail brings you up through the Butcher Creek drainage. 

After some steep switchbacks, you will eventually traverse a ridge and catch some fabulous views of Mill Creek and old mining cabins. The trail tops out just below Mount Emma at 12,200 ft. It then drops down into the upper Mill Creek Basin and lead you through boulder fields and vast alpine meadows. Wildflowers in this area are best found in mid-July. You might be able to catch a glimpse of the upper Mill Creek Falls before you are back down below the tree line.

At this point in the hike, you will again find yourself among tall aspen groves. If you peer past the trees, you’ll catch some views of town. The entire loop is 13 miles but can be shortened by about two miles if you arrange a shuttling system. To do this, leave a car at the end of the Mill Creek trail and take a right at this junction, following the road to the parking area above the water treatment plant. If you want to do the full loop, continue on the Waterline Trail which will bring you back to where you started.

No matter what, Sneffels is a fantastic excursion. It is definitely a challenge given the length and significant elevation gain (3,600 ft). Bring plenty of water and, if hiking mid-summer, prepare for possible inclement weather. But trust us on this one, it is well worth it!