South Fork Saguache

Managing agency

GMUG NF — Ouray RD

South Fork Saguache is a 12.7-mile out-and-back trail located in Colorado near the Ouray Ranger District of the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forest. The route gains 1,824 feet of elevation throughout the hike, making it a moderate undertaking for hikers seeking a longer day adventure. The trail follows South Fork Saguache Creek through the national forest landscape, offering hikers a chance to explore the area's natural terrain. The out-and-back format means hikers will retrace their route, with the most distant point serving as the turnaround before returning to the trailhead. The elevation gain is distributed across the full distance, resulting in a manageable gradient for most hikers with moderate fitness levels. The trail is maintained by the Ouray Ranger District, part of the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forest management system. This trail is suitable for hikers looking for a full-day outing in the San Juan region of Colorado, combining moderate distance with steady elevation gain in a scenic forest setting.