The most enchanting National Forest I've visited in 2021. I hiked to the Rainbow Hot Springs. The Rainbow Hot Springs is a 10 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Pagosa Springs. Also located in the San Juan National Forest. The forest occupies land in Archuleta, Conejos, Dolores, Hinsdale, La Plata, Mineral, Montezuma, Rio Grande, San Miguel and San Juan Counties!! They have plenty of campgrounds (with friendly campground hosts) and nearby Horseback Riding opportunities. I came here with a good friend of mine, as we visited South Fork, CO. The weather was perfect in May of 2021 and I needed a Chilly Mini for my neck. We spotted some gorgeous waterfalls and really unique plants.
San Juan appeared to have had a forest fire in the last 5 years, because we definitely witnessed some aftermath. Lots of old, dead and burned down tree trunks. The trail is fairly easy, a little rocky, but such a great cardio workout for your calves. We spotted some wonderful rivers that kept my friend and I very cool. read more