Ridge Trail

The Ridge Trail is one of the few hiking only trails within the Telluride Ski Area. The trail begins from the Mountain Village Base Area and follows a ridge up to the top of Coonskin Mountain and the San Sophia Gondola Station. While the trail can be hiked as an out and back, the free gondola provides options in case you’d prefer to only hike the trail in one direction. Alternatively, the Ridge Trail can also be combined with another trail (such as the Village Trail) to form a loop hike.

To begin, follow the Ridge Trail as it ascends from the base of the Gondola at Mountain Village. The trail makes a hard switchback and actually looses a little a tiny bit of elevation as it heads for the ridge. You’ll then begin climbing steadily.

The trail switchbacks along the mostly viewless ridge and through some nice aspen forest. The trail is a bit rocky in areas, but is straightforward hiking.

You’ll soon top out on the summit of Coonskin Mountain (10,571’). You’re still in the forest at this point, but continue just down to a side trail that leads to a fantastic viewpoint overlooking Telluride.

The San Sophia Gondola Station is also just a stone’s throw from here, where you can ride the gondola back down if you prefer. Otherwise, return the way you came via the Ridge Trail, or take another pathway back down to Mountain Village or to Telluride.