This week’s tour takes us through the Double RL Ranch. Winding through the ranch, the West Dallas Road allows public access to Forest Service land beyond. Because Ouray County doesn’t plow this road (also known as County Road 9) in the winter, the roadbed makes a nice cross country ski and snowshoe trail. Long a favorite of photographers in search of fall foliage, the road offers equally spectacular views during the winter season.
Because the land on both sides of the road is private, be sure not to stray off the road.
On a recent visit we enjoyed untracked snow and unspoiled views of the incomparable Sneffels Range. While snow plumes were creating a halo along the high ridges, we were quite sheltered in the meadows along the north side of the range.
The snow cover at the beginning of the road may sometimes be a little thin, so catch this tour after a recent snowfall if possible. After an extended dry spell it may be better to use snowshoes, though you would then miss out on the enjoyable return trip with 6 miles of gentle downhill gliding.
Hike description
Ski through the gate, which a sign indicates should be left as you found it. Ski south on the roadbed along fenced terrain. If a short section of the road has been plowed recently, it may be necessary to ski on the margin of the road. The plowing is to allow a rancher to get feed to his cattle. Once beyond this point, at a road junction at mile 1.2, the snow conditions should improve rapidly. From this junction the road turns to the southwest and quickly reaches the west fork of Dallas Creek. Take a moment to look down into the impressive gorge that the creek has cut.
The road curves to the south, away from the gorge, and reaches a very scenic spot at mile 4.3. A log cabin here takes in what has to be one of the more spectacular views in the state.
Stay on the road and follow it as it curves around some hilly terrain, passing a gated road off to the left at mile 4.6. Continue south as the road heads back toward the West Fork, eventually climbing to the crest of a minor ridge. At mile 6 you will reach the Forest Service boundary, a good spot to enjoy lunch before heading back.
The energetic can continue for another 0.8 mile to the junction with the West Dallas Trail, in Box Factory Park. This trail is also used to access the North Pole Hut, 9 miles from Colorado 62. The North Pole hut is a part of the San Juan Hut system. For more information, go to _adventures/.
Dave Cooper is the author of “Colorado Snow Climbs: A Guide for All Seasons.”
The Details
Getting to the trailhead: Drive to the intersection of U.S. 550 and Colorado 62 in Ridgeway. Turn onto 62, and drive west for 6.2 miles to the intersection with County Road 9 (West Dallas Road). Turn onto CR9, and park along the edge of the road on the gravel shoulder, being careful not to block access. Because this road is not plowed, a four-wheel-drive vehicle might be advisable.
Hike statistics: From the parking area to the Forest Service boundary, you’ll gain 1,460 feet in 6 miles one-way.
Difficulty: A long but relatively easy snowshoe or ski along a county road.
USGS Quad: Mount Sneffels, CO
