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Snowmass Peak - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

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Mountain Peaks
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About Snowmass Peak

At 12,922 feet, Snowmass Peak is the sixth highest peak in the state of Colorado. Located in Pitkin County, it is part of the Elk Mountains range. The peak is most commonly accessed from Snowmass Lake, which lies just below its summit. From there, it is a short but steep hike to the top. The views from the summit are breathtaking, encompassing all of the nearby 14,000-foot peaks as well as the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness area.
Address : Snowmass Peak, Colorado 81654, USA

Things to Do at Snowmass Peak

With its towering peaks and pristine valleys, Snowmass Peak is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. In the summer, hikers and climbers can explore the many trails that wind through the area. Mountain bikers will find plenty of challenging downhill runs to enjoy. And, of course, there are ample opportunities for fishing, camping, and picnicking.

In the winter, Snowmass Peak is a mecca for skiers and snowboarders. There are runs to suit all skill levels, from gentle groomed slopes to steep chutes. The area also offers cross-country skiing, sledding, and ice skating. And don't forget to take a scenic sleigh ride! No matter what time of year you visit, Snowmass Peak is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.


Top Activities Near Snowmass Peak

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History of Snowmass Peak

Snowmass Peak is one of the tallest mountains in Pitkin County, Colorado. It is located in the Elk Mountains, and has an elevation of 12,953 feet. The peak was named after the nearby Snowmass Ski Area, which was itself named after the large amount of snow that often accumulates on the mountain. Snowmass Peak is a popular climbing destination, and its summit can be reached via a number of trails. The most popular route is the Snowmass Lake Trail, which starts at the Snowmass Village Resort and passes by several lakes before reaching the summit. There are also a number of backcountry campsites along the trail, which offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Regardless of how it is reached, summiting Snowmass Peak is sure to be an unforgettable experience.


Best Time to Visit Snowmass Peak

The best time to visit Snowmass Peak in Pitkin County, Colorado is during the summer months. From June to August, the temperatures are warm and the days are long, making it the perfect time to enjoy all that the area has to offer. During this time of year, Snowmass Peak is a popular destination for hikers, mountain bikers, and climbers. 


Tips for Visiting Snowmass Peak

  1. Start your hike early in the morning to avoid the heat of the day and to give yourself plenty of time to reach the summit. Wear sunscreen and hats to protect against the sun's harmful rays.
  2. Be aware of your surroundings at all times and stay on the marked trail.
  3. Do not attempt to hike Snowmass Peak if you are not in good physical condition as it is a strenuous hike.
  4. Make sure you are prepared for extreme weather conditions, as the temperature can vary greatly depending on the time of day and year.
  5. Bring a map! The peak can be easy to get lost in, especially if you're not familiar with the area. 
  6. Be aware of your surroundings. With so much beauty to take in, it’s easy to get distracted, but remember that you are in a wilderness area and should be aware of potential hazards.

Interesting Facts and Trivias About Snowmass Peak

  1. At an elevation of 12,953 feet, Snowmass Peak is the 6th highest peak in the Elk Mountain range.It was named after the nearby Snowmass Ski Resort, which is one of the largest ski areas in the United States.
  2. The peak is located within the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Area, which is part of White River National Forest.
  3. The wilderness area is known for its dramatic landscapes, which include alpine meadows, aspen groves, and Rocky Mountain peaks.
  4. The hike to the summit of Snowmass Peak is challenging but rewarding, with panoramic views of the Colorado Rockies along the way.
  5. Wildflowers are abundant in the meadows along the trail in summer, adding a splash of color to the otherwise green and gray landscape.
  6. The peak gets its name from the large amount of snow that accumulates on its slopes each year. The snow often remains well into summer, and the peak is popular with climbers and hikers looking to escape the heat. 

How Much Time Did Visitors Spend at Snowmass Peak

The average hiker will need to allow for approximately 10-12 hours to complete the round trip hike. This time frame will allow for adequate breaks and a reasonable pace. Those who are experienced in high altitude hiking may be able to complete the hike in a shorter amount of time, but it is always best to err on the side of caution when planning a hike of this magnitude.


How to Reach Snowmass Peak

From the Snowmass Village mall parking lot, go west on the paved path beside Snowmass Creek. After a few minutes, you'll reach a trail junction marked by a large boulder. Take the left fork, which leads up to the Snowmass Ski Area via Base Village. The right fork crosses Snowmass Creek and heads towards Sam's Knob. Follow this trail for about a mile until you reach another junction. The left fork here leads up to Willoughby Way, while the right fork continues along Willis Gulch. Bear right and continue climbing until you reach the top of Snowmass Peak.


Entrance Fee of Snowmass Peak

Entrance to Snowmass Peak in Pitkin County, Colorado is free of charge.


Opening Hours of Snowmass Peak

The peak is open from sunrise to sunset, and the lift hours vary depending on the time of year. In the winter, the lifts are open from 9 AM to 4 PM, and in the summer, they are open from 10 AM to 3 PM. There is no night skiing at Snowmass Peak


Attractions Near Snowmass Peak

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Hagerman PeakHagerman Peak is the highest point in Pitkin County, with an elevation of 12,966 feet. The peak is located in the Sawatch Range, on the continental divide between the Atlantic and Pacific watersheds. Hagerman Peak is named for George Hagerman, who was the first person to survey the area. The peak is a popular destination for hikers and climbers, and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. There are several trails leading to the summit, and a number of campsites are located nearby.
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Snowmass MountainSnowmass Mountain is a beautiful site located in Pitkin County, Colorado. The mountain itself is over 14,000 feet tall and offers hikers breathtaking views of the surrounding area. The mountain is also home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, deer, and bighorn sheep. In addition to hiking, Snowmass Mountain is also popular for camping, fishing, and picnicking. No matter what your interests are, Snowmass Mountain is sure to have something for you.
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Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness The Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness is a large wilderness area, which is home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, deer, bighorn sheep, and bears. The wilderness is also home to a number of hiking trails, allowing visitors to explore the area's majestic mountains and forests. This is a popular destination for both day hikers and overnight backpackers. The wilderness also offers excellent fishing, horseback riding, and mountain biking.
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Capitol PeakCapitol Peak is a fourteener and the highest summit of the Elk Mountains. This Peak is notable for its exposed north face, which rises nearly 3000 feet above Crater Lake. The standard route on this peak is considered one of the more difficult non-technical routes up a fourteener. Experienced climbers should only attempt it with solid route-finding skills. The setting is truly picturesque, with Crater Lake below and the Maroon Bells to the west. Capitol Peak is a worthy goal for any avid climber.
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Mount DalyMount Daly is an imposing sight in Pitkin County, Colorado. It is the tallest mountain in the Elk Mountains, and its summit towers over 14,000 feet above sea level. The mountain is a popular destination for climbers and hikers, who come to enjoy the dramatic views and challenge themselves on the steep trails. However, Mount Daly is more than just a pretty face. The mountain is also home to a wealth of plant and animal life, including several rare and endangered species.
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Maroon BellsThe Maroon Bells are two of Colorado's fourteeners, peaks that rise more than 14,000 feet above sea level, located in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness near Aspen. The Bells are some of the most popular hiking destinations in Colorado, and theirreflective beauty has made them a favorite subject of photographers. The peaks get their name from the maroon-colored boulders that dot their slopes. These colorful rocks are actually sedimentary deposits that were formed millions of years ago.

Discover More Attractions in Pitkin County, Home of Snowmass Peak

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Pitkin County
Pitkin County is located in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, just southwest of Aspen. The county is home to several ski resorts, as well as the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness area. Tourism is a major industry in Pitkin County, and the area is popular for both winter and summer recreation. In the winter, visitors can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and cross-country skiing, while in the summer they can hike, fish, and camp. The county is also home to a number of cultural attractions, including the

Location of Snowmass Peak


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