FAQ

• What is the shortest hike in Telluride? The shortest hike heads straight up to Cornet Creek, by veering to the right at the Aspen St. entrance of the Jud Wiebe trail. It takes just a few minutes of walking on a path to get to the Cornet Falls, which only run for a short time during the spring, and the footing is tricky and strewn with roots and rocks. Bear Creek is a longer hike on easy terrain, and is more strenuous, but the views are worthwhile.

• What should I wear to hike? As in any mountainous terrain, prepare for the worst and the best weather. Beautiful, sunny skies can unexpectedly burst with rain, hail or even snow during any season. Always bring sunglasses and sunblock, or a hat, as the sun is much stronger at these elevations of 8750 feet and higher, and wear comfortable sneakers or hiking boots with good tread. Lots of people, including author Susan Kees, opt to bring a ski pole to navigate the downhill legs of the hikes.

• What should I do if I get lost or injured? Hikers who become lost, get hurt or find themselves stuck in tricky terrain sometimes need to be rescued. Those rescues are very expensive, but hikers who carry San Miguel County backcountry hiking licenses, available at any outdoors store, are insured in case of an emergency.

• What about bringing my dog? Dogs are practically required in Telluride, but it's important to use the proper etiquette. You need to leash your dog in town and pick up after them, and always keep your dog in control on the trails. Most dog owners don't leash their dogs on the longer hikes, but if your pooch isn't well behaved, you may want to consider it. Dogs should always be kept away from wildlife.