Pets allowed
Allowed with Restrictions
Elevation Gain
6,671.00 ft (2,033.32 m)
Trail type
There-and-back
Distance
30.20 mi (48.60 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

South Mineral Campground to Silverton Trail #507 is a 30.2-mile route through San Juan National Forest. It extends between South Mineral Campground, located off Forest Road 585 west of Silverton, Colorado, and Forest Road 578, located near Bolam Pass. This hike follows the Silverton Trail #507 as it winds through subalpine and coniferous forests with colorful alpine meadows that are generally in bloom with stunning wildflowers during the end of July and beginning of August.

It is a strenuous trek with steep climbs and an elevation gain of approximately 6,671 feet. It offers access to additional trails and mountain climbing opportunities for Grizzly Peak, Rolling Mountain, and Graysill Mountain.

Water is plentiful (though must be treated before consumption) and there are numerous scenic backcountry campsites. 

The trail is open to runners, hikers, backpackers, equestrians, and mountain bikers.  

WHEN TO VISIT

The best time to hike is in the summer and fall.

ACCESSIBLE TRAILS AND PEAKS

The following mountain peaks and trails are accessible via this route:

DISPERSED CAMPING

Dispersed camping and overnight stays are permitted provided certain restrictions are met. For more information, visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd766784.pdf.

SOUTH MINERAL CAMPGROUND

South Mineral Campground is one of the most popular camping areas in San Juan National Forest. It features 26-sites that are all on a first-come, first-served basis. See the link below to learn more information. 

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS

  • This is a remote route and access to the trailheads may require a 4WD vehicle. 

  • Limited parking available at the trailhead. 

  • Silverton Trail #507 is also part of the long distance Colorado Trail (CT).

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Silverton Trail #507

South Mineral Campground

Permits and Passes. - San Juan National Forest

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Summer
Fall

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Wildflowers. Mountain peaks. Scenic trail.

Cons

Limited parking at trailhead.

Trailhead Elevation

9,843.00 ft (3,000.15 m)

Highest point

12,483.00 ft (3,804.82 m)

Features

Near lake or river
Backcountry camping
Historically significant
Wildlife
Fishing
Big vistas
Horseback riding
Wildflowers
Mine

Typically multi-day

No

Suitable for

Biking
Horseback

Permit required

No

Location

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