Rock Creek Trail Map Link
Trailhead:
The trailhead is located southwest of Monte Vista. Head south out of Monte Vista on CO 15 (also known as the Gunbarrel). About 2.3 miles from the main stop-light in Monte, turn right at Road 2-S (Rock Creek Road–see US Forest Service sign). It is 12 miles from this turn to the trailhead. (When 2S meets CR-28, follow the paved road to the left.) When the pavement ends, you will continue another 6.75 miles. The trailhead starts at the summer archery range. Watch on your left for a small plowed area with an opening in the fence
The ski trail is located in the Rio Grande National Forest, in the western foothills of the San Juan Mountains. The area is used for archery practice in the summer an as a ski trail in the winter.
The trail starts off a fairly even grade and then drops through the trees to an open meadow on the side of the hill. There are several loops that link from here. The views to the east from the meadow are quite a reward fro your efforts, with the whole San Luis Valley at your feet and the Great San Dunes and Mt. Blanca in the distance! The trail is appropriate for all levels of skiers. It is easy enough for beginners with some nice flat areas to work on basic technique, and some variable terrain for skill-building. Intermediate or advanced skiers might make two or three laps to get in a strenuous workout.
The length of the entire trail system is about 5.6 miles roundtrip or 9.0 kilometers.
San Juan Nordic Club 