The Alpine Loop, a rugged byway winding through Colorado’s San Juan Mountains, is renowned for its stunning vistas, rugged terrain, and remote beauty. But behind its breathtaking landscapes is a region rich with history and fragile ecosystems that require careful stewardship. As an Alpine Loop Ambassador for the San Juan Mountains Association based in Silverton, I learned that while these lands attract adventure-seekers, they also require a deep commitment to their protection.
Dating back to the 1870s, the Alpine Loop has long been shaped by Colorado’s mining boom. Today, remnants of this mining legacy – ghost towns, abandoned mine shafts and machinery – serve as physical reminders of the area’s past. However, these historical features also bring modern challenges. The lingering effects of mining activities, such as erosion, contamination and habitat disruption make conservation efforts all the more critical. While history is important, balancing these legacies with ecological health requires careful management.
Beyond its historical significance, the Alpine Loop is home to some of Colorado’s most rare and delicate ecosystems, such as high-altitude wetland fens. These wetlands, often found at elevations above 10,000 feet, are incredibly rare but crucial to the region’s ecological health. Acting as natural water filters, fens trap pollutants and regulate water flow, which helps maintain the integrity of the surrounding environment. They also support unique plant and animal species that rely on their delicate balance. Protecting these ecosystems from disturbances is critical, as even small impacts can have significant consequences.
In addition to these rare ecosystems, the Alpine Loop hosts a variety of iconic wildlife. Beaver, for example, play a key role in shaping the landscape through their dam-building activities, which provide vital habitat for other species. Moose, once nearly extirpated in Colorado, have made a strong comeback in the area and are often spotted grazing in the meadows. Other wildlife includes yellow-bellied marmots, pikas that dart among the rocks, and a wide range of bird species that thrive in these high-alpine environments.
While monitoring these ecosystems, I was also fortunate to witness an extremely rare sight – a badger meandering over to its den at nearly 12,000 feet. This unexpected encounter reminded me just how resilient and interconnected these ecosystems are. The Alpine Loop’s wildlife, from the smallest pika to the rare badger, all depend on healthy, undisturbed habitats.
As an ambassador, my role was to educate visitors about their impact on this unique wilderness. Whether stationed at trailheads or driving the rugged Alpine Loop roads, I spoke with hikers, OHV riders and campers about minimizing their impact on the land. Staying on designated trails, respecting wildlife habitats, and practicing Leave-No-Trace principles were essential to ensuring that these rare ecosystems remained intact for future generations.
In addition to education, I also monitored the health of the Alpine Loop by tracking visitor numbers, noting trail wear, and observing changes in the wetlands and tundra. By documenting these conditions and reporting them to BLM officials, I contributed to conservation efforts aimed at preserving the loop’s beauty and ecological integrity for future generations.
The stewardship of the Alpine Loop is a collective responsibility. From its mining history to its rare ecosystems and diverse wildlife, protecting this land is essential to preserving its beauty and ecological health. Through education, awareness and responsible recreation, we can ensure that the Alpine Loop remains a wild, pristine wilderness for years to come.
Aubrey Balcom served as the Alpine Loop Ambassador for the San Juan Mountains Association, she is an environmental educator and Master of Environmental Management student at Western Colorado University, with a passion for wildlife photography and mountain exploration. You can find some of her photography work on Instagram: @aubrey_outside
