Laplata Peak-Blackbear

The Laplata Peak-Blackbear trail is a 7.2-mile out-and-back hike located in Colorado near the San Juan National Forest's Columbine Ranger District (East). This route gains 3,152 feet of elevation, making it a moderate to challenging day hike suited for hikers with solid fitness levels. The trail is managed by the San Juan National Forest, ensuring maintained conditions throughout the season. The out-and-back format allows hikers to turn back at any point, making it flexible for those wanting to adjust the difficulty or distance based on conditions and personal preference. With over 3,000 feet of elevation gain across 7.2 miles, expect steep sections and consistent climbing. The combination of distance and elevation gain means this hike typically requires 4-6 hours for most hikers to complete the full round trip. The trail provides access to high-country terrain in the San Juan range, a region known for alpine views and diverse terrain. This hike is best undertaken during summer and early fall when snow and ice clear from higher elevations.