Ironton Park Nordic Trails

00:00     Title
00:15     Ironton Park   
08:00     Winter Nordic Trails  
09:35     Red Mountain Mining District 
15:15     Bouillon King Road  
18:24     Fin
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​With the change of seasons comes a change of recreational venue at the Uncompahgre National Forest in southwestern Colorado. After the first heavy snowstorm, the challenging Alpine Loop 4x4 trails in the San Juan Mountains are closed due to avalanche danger.  When the snow piles up, some of the pathways become snowmobile trails. Many of the summertime mountain biking and hiking trails  turn into snowshoe hiking and cross country ski travel routes. 

Along the Million Dollar Highway from Ouray to just south of Silverton, there is an extensive network of cross country ski, snowmobile and snowshoe hiking trails. There are even a few ice skating lakes, ice climbing parks and recreation areas that allow winter season camping. Since most of the national forest winter activities are free admission, the vacation costs can be greatly reduced.

There are also several historic mining sites and ghost towns in the San Juan Mountains that can be accessed during the winter season. Ironton Park and the neighboring Red Mountain Mining District are popular nordic trail destinations that offer astounding panoramic views. The Nordic Trails run through Ironton Park, which is an old mining camp ghost town. These trails offer a chance to enjoy the peace and quiet of nature while exploring historic sites.