Bonita Peak - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

Bonita Peak is home to some of the best hiking and camping in Colorado. The trail to the summit of Bonita Peak is a challenging hike, but the views from the top are worth the effort. For those who want an easier hike, the trail to Blue Lake is a beautiful option that takes you through fields of wildflowers. Bonita Peak is also a great destination for rock climbing and mountain biking. There are several easy climbing routes on the north face of the peak, and the singletrack trails around the base offer something for every level of rider. Whether you're looking for a challenging hike or a fun day on the trails, Bonita Peak has something to offer.

Bonita Peak is a mountain in San Juan County, Colorado. It is the summit of the Virginius Mountain massif. The peak is named for its resemblance to a bonnet. The first recorded ascent of Bonita Peak was made in 1874 by W. S. Lew and C. D. Walcott. They named the peak "Bonney" for their guide, Jim Bridger, who had been known as "Old Bonney" during his time as a mountain man. In 1875, the Hayden Survey gave the peak its current name of "Bonita". The standard route on Bonita Peak is the West Ridge, which starts from a trailhead near Silverton, Colorado. The West Ridge was first climbed in 1901 by F. M. Chapman and H. W. Watkins. It is a moderate hike with some scrambling near the top. The summit affords views of several 14,000 foot peaks in the San Juans, including Mount Sneffels, Red Mountain, Cimarron Mountain, and Windom Peak. Bonita Peak is also home to a number of mines, including the Bonita Mine, which operated from 1882 to 1888 and produced silver and lead ore. There are also a number of old cabins and other structures on the mountain that were built by miners and prospectors over the years. Today, Bonita Peak is a popular destination for hikers and climbers alike, and its rich history makes it all the more special.

The best time to visit Bonita Peak in San Juan County, Colorado is during the summer months. From June to August, the weather is warm and sunny, providing perfect conditions for hiking, camping, and picnicking. The landscape is also lush and green during this time of year, making it a beautiful place to explore. 

1. Bonita Peak is located in San Juan County, Colorado. The best time to visit is between June and September.
2. When visiting Bonita Peak, be sure to wear appropriate clothing. The weather can be unpredictable, so layers are always a good idea. In addition, since the area is remote, it is always a good idea to bring along plenty of food and water.
3. Finally, remember that Bonita Peak is a wild place. Be sure to respect the flora and fauna and take only pictures and memories with you when you leave.
4.  When hiking in groups, stay together and be aware of each other's whereabouts at all times.
5. Stay on designated trails at all times to minimize impact on the fragile ecosystem.
6. Be respectful of others who are also enjoying the peace and quiet of the wilderness- keep noise to a minimum.
7. Remember that this is a remote area with limited cell service. Let someone know where you're going before you start your hike, and be aware that help may be far away if something goes wrong.
8. Despite its name, Bonita Peak is actually a fairly challenging hike. It's important to pace yourself and take breaks when needed. Don't push yourself too hard - this is supposed to be enjoyable!
    

1. Bonita Peak is the highest point in the San Juan Mountains, at an elevation of 12,943 feet. Bonita Peak was named for its nearby neighbor, Mount Boniton, which means "pretty" in Spanish.
2. The summit of Bonita Peak offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. There are several hiking trails that lead to the top of Bonita Peak, including the popular Rainbow Trail.
3. Bonita Peak is one of only two ultra-prominent peaks in Colorado ( peaks with more than 5,000 feet of prominence).
4. The peak is surrounded by several large glaciers, including the Blue Glacier and the Niwot Glacier. It is a popular destination for climbers and hikers, with several routes to the summit.

The time required to explore Bonita Peak will depend on your fitness level, the weather conditions, and the trails you take. However, we would recommend budgeting at least half a day for your exploration. If you are fit and the weather is good, you may be able to complete the hike in a shorter amount of time. 

To reach Bonita Peak, simply drive south on Highway 550 from Silverton until you reach the turn-off for the San Juan County Road 8 and the Stevens Creek Trailhead. From here, follow the Stevens Creek Trail for approximately 3.5 miles until you reach the summit of Bonita Peak. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, making it an ideal hike for beginners or those short on time. 

There is no entrance fee to explore Bonita Peak, San Juan County, Colorado. However, there are some fees associated with camping and parking in the area. dispersed camping is allowed on most BLM land for a maximum of 14 days. There are also several developed campgrounds in the area that charge per-night fees. Parking is available at the trailheads for a fee of $5 per vehicle per day.

Bonita Peak is open to hikers from dawn to dusk.