The Jud Wiebe Trail is a Telluride favorite for locals who use the short mileage and quick elevation gain as a place to run and walk their dogs—of which there are very, very many. For Telluride newcomers, the trail is a great place to get a vantage of the city. Located at the end of Aspen Street a few blocks from Colorado Avenue, it’s also a good, quick hiking option close to town that can fit in between other adventures in the area.
From the end of Aspen Street, follow the trail to the Jud Wiebe Trailhead. Continue straight for the quarter-mile spur to Cornet Creek Falls, or turn left across a bridge to follow the Jud Wiebe Trail. The trail begins its ascent shortly, and it continues for roughly a mile. At spurs, keep to the right to stay on the Jud Wiebe Trail, which will continue to rise until the trees thin somewhat, providing open views of Telluride and the Telluride Ski Resort on the opposite side of the canyon. The trail levels for another mile, and visitors will find a plaque commemorating the Jud Wiebe Trail and several benches to rest and soak in the views. Continue through aspen forest until you reach Cornet Creek, which the Jud Wiebe will cross a second time before it descends. Follow switchbacks to Telluride water reservoirs, after which the trail becomes Liberty Bell Road, then K68 Road, also known as Tomboy Road, which ultimately leads over the mountain pass to Ouray. Turn right on Tomboy Road and return to town. This is a loop that can be done in either direction.
The trail was named for Jud Wiebe, a Forest Service manager who planned the trail before passing away from cancer in 1986.
Keep in mind that parking in Telluride can be difficult, and it may not be available on Aspen Street near the Jud Wiebe Trailhead. Parking is also available in Mountain Village, and Telluride offers aerial tram service into Telluride year round at no cost.
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