Jones Mountain - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

One of the best things about living in Colorado is the abundance of outdoor activities available. If you're looking for a place to hike, Jones Mountain in San Juan County is a great option. The trailhead is just a short drive from Durango, and the views from the summit are breathtaking. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even camp overnight at one of the many campsites along the trail. In addition to hiking, Jones Mountain is also a great place for mountain biking and horseback riding. So whether you're looking for a challenging hike or a leisurely bike ride, Jones Mountain has something to offer.

The history of Jones Mountain in San Juan County, Colorado is a long and varied one. The mountain was first settled by Native Americans, who used its resources for hunting and gathering. Eventually, the mountain was discovered by Spanish explorers, who named it after one of their own. In the early 1800s, Jones Mountain became a popular destination for American settlers, who mined its rich veins of gold and silver. Today, the mountain is home to a variety of businesses and recreation opportunities. Despite its many changes over the years, Jones Mountain remains a beautiful and interesting place with a rich history.

The best time to visit Jones Mountain in San Juan County, Colorado is in the summer. The mountain is covered in wildflowers and the air is clear.

1. Pack plenty of water and snacks, as there are no restaurants or convenience stores at Jones Mountain.
2. Be prepared for changeable weather conditions - pack layers that you can easily add or remove as needed.
3. Let someone know where you're going and when you expect to return - Jones Mountain is a remote area and cell phone service can be spotty.
4. Stay on designated trails and respecting posted signs - Jones Mountain is home to many different kinds of plants and animals, so it's important to tread lightly.
5. Avoid hiking during thunderstorms - lightning strikes are a serious hazard in high elevations such as Jones Mountain.
6. Be courteous to other visitors - share trails and be considerate of others' space.

1. At an elevation of 12,804 feet, Jones Mountain is the highest peak in San Juan County, Colorado.
2. The summit of the mountain offers panoramic views of the surrounding area, including the San Juans and the 14ers (peaks that rise more than 14,000 feet above sea level). 
3.  The east side of the mountain is covered in pika colonies, while the west side is home to a population of bighorn sheep. 
4. Jones Mountain is part of the Mount Sneffels Wilderness area, which was established in 1980. 
5.  The wilderness area includes 48,419 acres of land, and it is managed by both the Bureau of Land Management and the US Forest Service. 

It is advisable to allow at least two days to explore Jones Mountain. This will give you the time you need to reach the summit and enjoy the stunning views. It will also give you a margin of safety in case of bad weather or other unexpected delays. 

There are several ways to reach Jones Mountain, San Juan County, Colorado. The most direct route is to take Highway 550 north from Durango for about 60 miles. turn onto County Road 250 and continue for about 10 miles until you reach the trailhead. However, Highway 550 can be closed during winter months due to snow, so it is important to check the road conditions before embarking on this journey. 

No, there is no entrance fee to explore Jones Mountain. However, there are some charges for camping and overnight parking.

The mountain is open all year round, but the hours vary depending on the season. In the winter, the mountain is open from 9 AM to 4 PM, while in the summer it is open from 6 AM to 8 PM. Visitors are advised to check the current conditions before embarking on their hike, as the weather can change quickly at high altitudes.