The mountain range has an average annual snowfall of 350 inches, with an average peak snowpack of 120 inches. The mountain is surrounded by several ski resorts, including Telluride, Purgatory, and Kendall Mountain.
The climate trends in the San Juan Mountains have shown decreasing snowpack and earlier snowmelt in recent years, likely due to rising temperatures and changes in precipitation patterns. This has had significant impacts on downstream hydrology, particularly for the Animas River, which flows through Silverton and Durango. The Animas River is a crucial source of water for agriculture and municipalities in the region, as well as a popular destination for fishing and recreation. Additionally, the snowmelt runoff from Burro Mountain feeds several creeks and reservoirs, including the Vallecito Reservoir, which provides water for irrigation and municipal use.
1. Hiking: Burro Mountain offers a variety of hiking trails that cater to all skill levels. Popular trails include the Burro Peak Trail, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, and the Turkey Creek Trail, which leads to a picturesque waterfall.
2. Mountain Biking: The rugged terrain of Burro Mountain provides the perfect setting for mountain biking enthusiasts. The Burro Mountain Trail System offers over 50 miles of singletrack trails with various levels of difficulty, making it a popular destination for riders of all abilities.
3. Fishing: The nearby San Juan River is known for its excellent trout fishing opportunities. Anglers can try their luck at catching rainbow and brown trout in the crystal-clear waters of the river. Additionally, there are several nearby lakes and reservoirs that offer fishing opportunities as well.
4. Camping: Burro Mountain is a great place for camping enthusiasts to enjoy the great outdoors. There are several campgrounds in the area, including the Burro Mountain Homestead Campground, which offers RV and tent camping options amidst the beautiful mountain scenery.
5. Wildlife Viewing: Burro Mountain is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, and a variety of bird species. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy observing these animals in their natural habitat while exploring the mountain trails.
6. Rock Climbing: The rugged cliffs and rock formations of Burro Mountain provide a challenging and rewarding experience for rock climbing enthusiasts. Popular climbing spots include the Burro Mountain Boulders and the Burro Peak Cliffs, which offer a variety of climbing routes for all skill levels.
| Site ID | Snow Sensor 378 |
| Geolocation | 39.89, -107.60 |
| Elevation | 9,400ft. |
| Last Updated | 2026-07-20 |
| Observed Snowpack | 3 inches |
| Percent of Normal | 15% |
| Snow Water Equivalent | 0% |
| Past 24hrs | 0.0 inches |
| 24hr Forecast | 0 inches |
| 120hr Forecast | 0 inches |
| Peak Snowpack | 236 inches |