Geology Hike: Ancient Rocks of the Vallecito Valley
May 22 @ 9:00 am - 1:00 pm
Again this year, SJMA in conjunction with the US Forest Service, Pagosa and Bayfield Ranger Districts, is hosting educational geology hikes, free for the public, from May through October. These interpretive hikes, led and presented by geologist Dave Bouquet, will be in an area of the San Juan National Forest rich with evidence of earth’s geologic history from some of the area’s oldest metamorphic rocks, to Cretaceous seaways, to Tertiary volcanoes, to modern glacial deposits.
“Trail as Old as Time” – Ancient Rocks of the Vallecito Valley Geology Hike
The Spanish name Vallecito (“Via-seeto”), meaing “Little Valley” is an apt name for this valley hike, yet the views along the way are anything but little. Following Vallecito Creek, the trail begins easy, flat and meadering, then begins to climb through a deep canyon with ponderosa pines, aspens, and conifers.
During the hike, volunteer geologist Dave Bouquet will explain the rich geologic history of the area, and guests will view some of the oldest rocks in the San Juans. You will discover a unique rock called the Vallecito Creek Metaconglomerate, which is nearly 2 billion years old. Your guide will briefly explain the regional geology of the area and explain how metamorphic rocks form. This area was glaciated during the last ice age and we’ll encounter some evidence of that. It is common to encounter the crimson columbine (aquilegia Formosa) along the trail, as well as a variety of bird species.
Trail Information: This is an out and back, moderate level hike, approximately 6.5 miles round trip with about 600ft of elevation gain. The hike has some relatively safe cliff edge exposure in a few spots – maybe a consideration for those with a fear of heights. Depending on water levels, there may be an easy side creek crossing (stepping stones and logs) just before the turn around point. The group will hike to the first bridge, have lunch (pack some lightweight trail chow) and return. With information stops and lunch, the hike is expected to take 3 to 4 hours.
When: May 22, 2025 from 9am – 1pm
Where: Vallecito Creek Trailhead (near the public restrooms in the Vallecito Creek Campground). From Bayfield, drive north on Colorado 501 for ~18 miles, then turn left onto Colorado 500, in ~3 miles you will arrive at the TH parking lot (on the left, adjacent to the public restrooms).
What to Bring:
- Layers of cool and warm clothing
- Water (1/2 to 1 liter per hour)
- Sturdy, supportive footwear
- Lunch/snacks
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Hiking Daypack
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Camera
Cost: Free, $10 donation is greatly appreciated!
Please Note: Although pets are allowed in the national forest, we ask that pets be left at home as a courtesy to the other guests in the group.
Registration: Registration is required.