Segment 13

Bennett Peak & San Luis Valley

  • Distance: 84.5 miles

  • Vertical: +11063', -11741'

  • Highlights:

    • Bennett Peak

    • North Rock Creek

    • Greenie Mountain BLM Land

  • Main Challenges:

    • Route-finding along North Rock Creek

    • Long water carry across San Luis Valley

    • Desert heat in San Luis Valley

  • Scrambling Grade: Mostly roads and trails

  • Exposure: Minimal

San Luis Valley, Greenie Mountain BLM Land

This quiet segment wraps up the San Juans as it connects South Fork to Alamosa in the middle of the San Luis Valley. It’s a bit tame compared to other segments, so we encourage section hikers to consider other segments first.

The main features of this segment are seldom-hiked trails to Pinos Creek, Bennett Peak, and North Rock Creek. Several of these trails are multi-use, however, so you are likely to encounter OHVers.

The trail along North Rock Creek goes through beautiful aspen groves, though be prepared for route finding as the trail fades in and out.

After Rock Creek, the GCR crosses Greenie Mountain BLM land to get a small taste of the natural environment of the San Luis Valley before darting as efficiently as possible to the town of Alamosa. Be sure to stop at Worth the Drive Bakery for some delicious Amish-baked goods.

The San Luis Valley offers several challenges, particularly high heat, long water carries, monotonous roads, and limited camping and lodging options due to private land. If you plan on walking the valley rather than hitching to the beginning of the Sangres, plan ahead!

In the future we will explore a different route from Creede to get a small taste of the South San Juans, but will likely still wind up connecting to the current route near Bennett Peak. A self-sufficient hiker can alternatively figure out a way to reconnect with the Colorado Trail northbound and take it to Salida before figuring out a way to reconnect in the Sangres.

Important: Read Before Viewing

The Great Colorado Route travels through remote, high-elevation backcountry. Hazards include severe weather, lightning, altitude illness, river crossings, wildlife, rockfall, steep and exposed terrain, route-finding errors, and limited or no cell service or emergency rescue.

This map and its information may be inaccurate, incomplete, or out of date. Conditions, closures, and land access change. It is not a substitute for your own judgment, navigation skills, current conditions, and other sources. You are solely responsible for your own safety and decisions.

By clicking below, you acknowledge these risks and agree to the Terms of Use of this website.

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Use at your own risk. Backcountry travel is inherently dangerous. Route information may be inaccurate or out of date and was last reviewed on October 2026. Always carry appropriate navigation tools, verify current conditions and land access, and make your own decisions. See the Terms of Use.

Logistical Considerations

Approaching Bennett Peak

Seasonal Closures

We are not aware of any official seasonal closures, but high snow can make sections difficult or impassable without specialized skillsets.

Cliffs below Bennett Mountain

Permits & Fees

There are no permits or fees for this segment.

Near summit of Bennett Peak

Water

Water becomes a serious challenge as you approach and cross the San Luis Valley.

  • Stock up on plenty of water from South Fork Rock Creek before exiting National Forest lands

  • Spigots at Monte Vista Wildlife Refuge if you take the alternate that direction

  • Water for sale at SLV Discount Grocery and Worth the Drive Bakery along roadwalk

  • Water for sale at gas stations in Alamosa

Aspen trees along North Rock Creek Trail

Camping

Please respect private property.

For the San Luis Valley, we recommend:

  • Collecting enough water from South Rock Creek

  • Camping along Greenie Mountain BLM land so you can make it all the way to Alamosa the next day.

  • Getting a motel room in Alamosa

San Luis Valley with Sangres in background

Other Considerations

  • Desert Heat: The San Luis Valley can get extremely hot in the summer. Plan ahead and check forecasts to evaluate whether it is safe to cross on foot.

  • Snow Travel: Thru hikers may encounter high snow levels when traversing this section and are encouraged to carry appropriate gear (e.g., microspikes and ice axe), know how to use them, and have backup plans if their planned route is unsafe or impassable.