The Galloping Goose Trail is a classic “rails to trails” route that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, easy single track hiking and riding, and unique opportunities to explore the area’s railroad and mining history. Located three miles west of the Town of Telluride, Colorado, it is open to hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians. The 12.6 mile trail takes visitors past a restored train trestle, over two trail bridges and through several highway underpasses as it traverses along segments of the historic Rio Grande Southern (RGS) railway. Visitors will see accurate restorations of historic structures such as a trestle, coal chutes building, and water tower as well as remnants of the original ties and rails.

The Galloping Goose Trail starts at the underpass at the intersection of Colorado State Highway 145 and Society Drive three miles west of Telluride Colorado where an undeveloped parking area is available.  Trail users either park at this location or cycle or hike directly from the Town of Telluride.  The Galloping Goose connects to two trails; a paved bike trail that goes east to the Town of Telluride or a single track trail that progresses along the San Miguel River to the Town of Telluride.

Route Length: 12.6 miles

Easy with Some Moderately Strenous Sections

While the paved bike route the connects to the Galloping Goose from the Town of Telluride is ADA accessable, the Galloping Goose trail is not. 

The section of the Galloping Goose Trail that goes through the Lawson Hill Subdivision (the first 2.5 miles) does not allow dogs.  Dog owners can access the Galloping Goose Trail from Ilium Valley.  From Colorado Highway 145 4.5 miles west of Telluride toward Placerville take County Road 63L south approximately 2.5 miles.  Dog owners can access the Galloping Goose trail at this point.