The Four Mile trail is one of Pagosa’s most popular hikes.  Winding through a river valley to reach the Four Mile Falls, the trail has its ups and downs but can be classified between ‘easy’ and ‘intermediate.’  The biggest challenge for some may be the sum total 7 miles of hiking required to visit and return from the waterfall.  Every year tourists come out in droves to hit this trail, however: the only hike in Pagosa where I’ve regularly seen more people is on the Opal Lake trail and, although perhaps not as stunningly scenic as some of the more expert climbs in the region, the Four Mile trail does offer a consistent river presence, a nice meadow perfect for a picnic, plenty of shade for hot summer days and some spectacular rock formations near the waterfall itself.

The Falls originates near the base of Pagosa Peak, emerging from both meltwater and an underground spring – there isn’t a real trail going from the origin point to the waterfall itself; around five years or so ago I traced it from the source cross country through rough wilderness to the top of the Fall (expert hikers only!).

Four Mile has continued to draw tourist attention for years and years, and it is a good bet that you will be sharing this trail with anywhere from three to a dozen other hikers in the busy summer season.  Its relative ease, peaceful glades and scattered glimpses of breathtaking Pagosa country will, I’m sure, regale visitors with the taste of the National Forest for many years to come.  For those seeking an extra challenge and/or solace, the Anderson trail runs from the same trailhead and in various points overlooks the Four Mile river valley.