Snowmass Mountain, CO USA

Getting to the Trailhead, Hiking the Approach, Safety, and More

Sep 19, 2009 Bill Sassani

Snowmass Mountain offers both beautiful views and a tough climb for hiker looking for a challenge.

Snowmass Mountain is one of the many mountains in Colorado that are over fourteen thousand feet tall. With a long approach, views of alpine lakes, and high altitude scrambling, Snowmass has both spectacular views and a challenging climb.

Getting to the Snowmass Mountain East Slope Trailhead

To get to the trailhead for Snowmass Mountain, drive to the town of Snowmass, Colorado. Turn onto Snowmass Creek road, making a left turn at mile 1.7, and a right turn at mile 10.7. Continue until the road ends at 11.3 miles. The parking lot is quite large, with a private ranch gate at one end. The trailhead will be clearly visible. Remember to register and fill out a free camping permit with the Forest Service.

Hiking the Approach to the Snowmass Mountain East Slope Route

The first eight miles of hiking follows a trail up a valley, past a stream on the right side. At about six miles in there is a large lake, with a log-jam that is stacked up on one side. It is possible to cross the lake at this point, but hikers should be careful and watch their step crossing over the logs. There are also camp sites around the pond, making this a great place to hike in and camp overnight.

After the lake the trail continues to switchback up a hill about another two miles to another, smaller alpine lake. This area also has spots for overnight camping. Note that before this lake there is a trail sign indicating that campfires are not permitted here, nor are livestock.

Continuing Past the Second Lake up a Scree Slope

The climb really begins just past this second lake. At the camping area there is a stream that is fed by the lake. Cross here and hike through a few campsites to skirt around the left side of the lake to the far side, where a scree slope can be seen. From here the rest of the hike is above tree line in the alpine zone. Follow rock cairns through a boulder field and up the scree slope.

Past the Scree Slope Through Another Boulder Field

Once past the scree slope the climb opens up into a big bowl area. Hikers must continue through another large boulder field. This part of the climb can be tricky finding the exact route. However, there are rock cairns, and Snowmass Mountain can be seen ahead.

Scrambling to the Top of Snowmass

The last stretch to the summit of Snowmass involves tricky third class scrambling to get to the top. Be cautious of rockfall and pick a route carefully. This is a good place to wear a helmet.

The Descent of Snowmass Mountain

The descent can be almost as epic as the climb itself. Remember to factor in a lot of time for the return trip, and be aware that the trail is still above tree line for several hours until reaching the second lake. Total round-trip is about twenty-one miles.

Considerations When Climbing Snowmass

extra layers.
Leave No Trace procedures, especially next to the alpine lakes.

More Information on Snowmass Mountain

For more information on the mountain, including trip reports and driving directions, visit 14ers.com.

The copyright of the article Snowmass Mountain, CO USA in Backpacking, Hiking & Camping is owned by Bill Sassani. Permission to republish Snowmass Mountain, CO USA in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.