Bridge of Heaven - Ouray Hiking
The Bridge of Heaven hike, located just outside of Ouray, Colorado, is an incredible and rewarding hike that offers stunning panoramic views of the Cimarron Range, the Sneffels Range, and Ironton and Red Mountain Pass. This is a must-do for any hiker looking for a challenging and scenic hike.
The hike starts with switchbacks through the lush forest, with little openings providing a glimpse of what's to come. The trail climbs 3,000 feet in 4 miles, making for a challenging and strenuous hike. However, the effort is well worth it once you reach the top.
The Bridge of Heaven is a narrow, 12,300-foot ridge that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The panoramic vistas from the summit are truly spectacular and will make all the hard work feel worth it.
This hike is best done during the summer and fall when the weather is milder, and the wildflowers are in bloom. Bring a camera to capture the stunning views from the summit.
The Bridge of Heaven hike is considered a strenuous hike, but it's an unforgettable experience that should not be missed. The hike takes about 8-10 hours depending on your pace and fitness level.
Directions:
From Ouray, drive 2 miles north on Hwy 550 to CO Rd 14 and turn right. Follow CO Rd 14 for 1 mile as it winds past Lake Lenore. Stay on CO Rd 14 until it reaches the Dexter Creek Crossing. The dropped pin on the map is where I parked so that I would not have to cross the creek in my car. Hiking from here adds a little over 2 miles to the hike. If you decide to cross the creek in your vehicle, the road becomes rougher, but still leads right up to the parking lot for the trailhead.
