Black Bear – Silverton and Ouray, Colorado

Drive south from Ouray on 550 to the Black Bear trail head. Follow the Black Bear track log. The trail here is an easy ascent. Soon a breathtaking view of Telluride comes into view. This is a must photo opportunity. Black Bear gets its difficult rating from the decent into Telluride. The first portion of the decent starts with a slightly off camber shelf road. There are occasional pieces of loose shale in this section. Go very slowly and this area is safe. Do not consider descending if the weather is bad or there is any possibility of ice or snow. The trail soon requires a series of switchbacks, many requiring three point turns. This is a safe area if taken slowly. At the end of the switchbacks is a nice view of Imogene Falls. Follow Black Bear track 2 into Telluride. To return to Ouray drive to the northern edge of town and take Imogene Trail to Ouray.