Montville Nature Trail

Overview

This easy 0.5-mile loop packs a lot into a short, shaded stroll at the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Plan about 30 minutes. The climb is gentle (about 200 feet of gain, though many devices read closer to ~100), and the loop tops out around 8,385 feet (starting near 8,250). It’s a favorite cool-down when the dunes are blazing, with a surprising viewpoint of the dunefield and mountains.

What You’ll See

You’ll walk through a mix of piñon and other pines, Douglas-fir, aspen, and narrowleaf cottonwood—keep an eye out for prickly pear cactus along sunnier edges. The loop traces the historic townsite of Montville, destroyed by a 1911 flash flood; numbered interpretive stops tell the story. Deer are common, and you’ll often hear jays and ravens; black bears are more common in these foothills than on the dunes.

Route Guide

From the trailhead, the loop begins quickly. Most hikers go counterclockwise to follow the interpretive markers in order. The path climbs steadily to a small bridge over Mosca Creek at the high point, where breaks in the trees reveal the dunes, Mt. Herard, and the San Luis Valley. Underfoot can be a bit rocky in spots, but footing is straightforward. After the bridge, stay mindful of junctions so you don’t accidentally continue up Mosca Pass if you’re just looping back to the lot.

Connections and Add‑Ons

• Mosca Pass Trail branches from the far eastern end of the loop and heads up-canyon; it enters designated wilderness about 0.5 mile beyond the Montville Loop.
• Wellington Ditch Trail also splits from Montville and runs about 0.9 mile to Piñon Flats Campground, offering elevated viewpoints of the dunes (especially nice near sunset).
• A 0.25-mile access path links the trailhead with the Visitor Center if you’re parking there.

Best Time to Hike

Good year‑round; expect small drifts in winter. In summer, this is an excellent afternoon option thanks to shade. For cooler temps and fewer mosquitoes, go early or later in the day. It’s also a pleasant, short night walk to listen for owls.

Getting There & Parking

The trailhead sits just past the Visitor Center on Highway 150. RVs and trailers aren’t allowed at the Montville lot—park those at the Visitor Center and walk the 0.25‑mile connector. Pick up the interpretive guide at the trailhead or Visitor Center to match the numbered posts.

Tips & Hazards

Bring bug spray in warm months (mosquitoes like the creek corridor). You’re hiking between about 8,250 and 8,385 feet—take it easy if you’re not acclimated. Black bears are present; keep food secured and stay alert. Dogs are allowed; keep them leashed. The loop briefly enters the National Preserve, which doesn’t change the experience.