Pets allowed
Allowed with Restrictions
Elevation Gain
2,800.00 ft (853.44 m)
Trail type
There-and-back
Distance
22.40 mi (36.05 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.

Twin Sisters Trail is a 22.4-mile out-and-back through San Juan National Forest. The trail extends between Molas Pass / U.S. Route 550 and Rico-Silverton Trail #507. It features colorful mountain slopes, green valleys, expansive views, and stunning wildflowers. 

This trek takes place at high altitudes, roughly between 12,560 and 10,800 feet, with an elevation gain of around 2,800 feet. The trail is open to runners, hikers, backpacking, equestrians, and mountain bikers.  

Twin Sisters Trail #555 passes by Little Molas Lake and provides access to Little Molas Campground. It climbs above treeline and crosses a ridge with breathtaking views of the San Juan Mountains. It crosses Lime Creek and traverses around the southeastern base of Twin Sisters (13,432’). It links to the Winter Creek Trail #508 and Rico-Silverton Trail #507, which is also the turnaround point. 

This scenic trail is located approximately 40 miles north of Duranago and just six miles south of Silverton and is an excellent location for a day trip or overnight getaway. 

CAMPING AND PERMITS

Overnight permits are not required for San Juan National Forest. For more information about specific special use permits and passes please visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/sanjuan/alerts-notices/?cid=stelprdb5173137

DISPERSED CAMPING: Dispersed camping is allowed in San Juan National Forest in accordance with certain regulations.

CAMPGROUNDS: Camping reservations can be made at  www.recreation.gov, and more information about campgrounds in the area can be found in the San Juan National Forest Campground Guide.

COMMON WILDLIFE

San Juan National Forest is home to a variety of animals including, bats, mountain lions, bears, and snakes.

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS

  • The San Juan Mountains are known for having quickly changing weather and dangerous afternoon thunderstorms. 

  • Always be prepared for rain, hail, snow, wind, and extreme cold (all seasons / year-round). 

  • Make sure that you are familiar with proper lightning safety protocols. 

  • Water found along a trail should be treated before consumption. 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Twin Sisters Trail #555

San Juan National Forest

Outdoor Safety Information for the San Juan Mountains

 

Logistics + Planning

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Wildflowers. Colorful geology. Scenic vistas.

Cons

Frequent afternoon thunderstorms.

Trailhead Elevation

10,888.00 ft (3,318.66 m)

Highest point

12,356.00 ft (3,766.11 m)

Features

Backcountry camping
Wildlife
Big vistas
Horseback riding
Wildflowers

Typically multi-day

No

Suitable for

Horseback
Biking

Permit required

No

Location

Comments

Have updates, photos, alerts, or just want to leave a comment?
Sign In and share them.