The Sale of Telluride's Iconic Bear Creek Falls: Preserving a Natural Treasure

One of Telluride's most cherished landmarks, Bear Creek Falls, is up for grabs. Ever since it was listed by Pagosa brokerage Best of Pagosa Springs earlier this month, just about every Telluride real estate broker's phones have been overwhelmed with messages about this surprising property listing, accompanied by questions such as, "Is this real?" The answer is a resounding yes—the famed Bear Creek Falls is indeed for sale, stirring quite the conversation. Let me explain.

 

The Bear Creek Trail is primarily incorporated within the Bear Creek Preserve, which is owned by the town of Telluride. However, the stunning falls themselves, along with approximately 33 acres of land, are privately owned through a series of mining claims. These are currently listed for a substantial $14.9 million.

 

A key concern for many is whether new ownership might restrict public access to the falls or even block the famous hiking trail. Rest assured, most of the trail falls within the Bear Creek Preserve, meaning it is safeguarded from alterations regardless of who the buyer is. The trailhead, which begins in the town of Telluride and up to the iconic big boulder with views of the falls, remains entirely protected—this is the portion most visitors enjoy.

 

However, a separate trail leads to the actual falls area, entering private property territory. Here, a potential buyer could develop features like an overlook or stairs and charge for access. This forms part of the property's marketing pitch and valuation—income potential.

 

While developing a home in such a unique location may lure some investors, imagining practical and realistic uses for such a remote property could be quite challenging. The sellers have a legal opinion proposing that Bear Creek Trail, an old mining road, permits accessibility by car, and the sellers themselves have driven the trail up to the falls a few times. However, permission from the Town of Telluride is required on each trip. It isn't practical for any use other than the occasional joy ride (which is precarious enough, considering how busy this trail can be with hikers, bikers, families, and dogs).

 

In my view, preservation stands out as the best use for this intriguing property. Ideally, a benevolent buyer might step forward, purchase all mining claims, then donate the falls to Telluride, blending them seamlessly into the Bear Creek Preserve. While this might seem whimsical—especially at this price point—it remains the most sensible option for safeguarding such a treasured natural site for future generations.

 

Bear Creek Falls is a unique part of Telluride’s natural allure, and with its fate hanging in the balance, what remains certain is the community's hope to preserve access and the beauty of these falls for years to come.