Stewart Peak - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

There's no shortage of things to do when you visit Stewart Peak in Saguache County, Colorado. For starters, the views from the top of the peak are simply stunning. You'll also find plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore, as well as fishing and boating opportunities in the nearby lakes. And if you're feeling adventurous, you can even try your hand at climbing the peak itself! Whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed vacation, Stewart Peak is sure to have something for everyone.

Stewart Peak is the highest point in Saguache County, Colorado. The peak is located in the San Juan Mountains, and the summit elevation is 12,933 feet (3,943 meters). The peak was named after Major William A.H. Stewart, who surveyed the area in 1874. Stewart Peak is a popular destination for hikers and climbers, and there are several trails that lead to the summit. The most popular route is the 3.5-mile (5.6-kilometer) Stewart Trail, which starts at the mile-high town of Saguache and gains about 2,900 feet (880 meters) of elevation. Other routes include the 4.2-mile (6.8-kilometer) Ruedi Reservoir Trail and the 5.1-mile (8.2-kilometer) Blue Lake Trail. Regardless of which trail you choose, reaching the top of Stewart Peak is sure to be a challenging and rewarding experience.

The best time to visit Stewart Peak in Saguache County, Colorado is during the summer months. From June through August, the weather is warm and dry, making it ideal for hiking and other outdoor activities. 

1. pack your hiking shoes and plenty of water - the trails around Stewart Peak are not to be missed!
2. dress in layers - the weather can change quickly at high altitudes, so it's important to be prepared.
3. take advantage of the resources available - there are ranger-led hikes and other activities offered throughout the season.
4. be prepared for anything - sudden storms are a possibility, so come prepared with rain gear and extra supplies.
5. Dogs are welcome on most trails at Stewart Peak, but please make sure they are leashed at all times.
6. Remember that you are entering a wilderness area when you visit Stewart Peak. Please take care to leave no trace and respect wildlife.
7. cell phone coverage can be spotty in the area, so it's always a good idea to let someone know where you're going before you set out on your hike.

1. At an elevation of 12,933 feet (3,953 meters), Stewart Peak is one of the tallest peaks in the San Juan Mountains.
2.  The peak is named for James H. Stewart, who was the first person to summit the peak in 1874.
3. Stewart Peak is home to a variety of plant and animal life, including deer, elk, and bighorn sheep.
4. Minerals including quartz and mica can be found on or near Stewart Peak.
5. Stewart Peak is part of the San Juan Mountains, a large range that includes some of the highest mountains in Colorado.
6. The San Juans are home to several major rivers, including the Rio Grande, Colorado River, and Gunnison River.
7. The San Juans are also home to several ski resorts, including Telluride Ski Resort and Silverton Mountain Ski Resort. 
8. Stewart Peak is located just east of the Continental Divide, which runs through the center of the San Juans. The Continental Divide forms the boundary between the Pacific Ocean and Gulf of Mexico drainage basins. 
    

The hike is approximately 14 miles round trip and can take anywhere from 6 to 12 hours to complete, depending on your fitness level and weather conditions. 

There are several ways to reach the summit of Stewart Peak, but the most popular route starts from the town of Saguache. From Saguache, the trailhead is located just off Highway 114. From the trailhead, the hike to the summit is approximately 4 miles (6.4 kilometers) round trip and takes about 4-6 hours to complete. The trail winds through a mix of forest and meadow before reaching the rocky summit. 

There is no entrance fee to explore Stewart Peak in Saguache County, Colorado. However, there may be some charges for camping or using the facilities at the peak.

The peak is open to the public from dawn to dusk, and there is no fee for access.