Ajax Peak - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

Ajax Peak is a great destination for outdoor lovers of all kinds. In the summer, hikers can take advantage of the numerous trails in the area, including the Ajax Peak Trail, which leads to the summit of the peak. For those who are looking for a more challenging hike, the nearby Bear Creek Trail is a great option. In the winter, Ajax Peak is a popular spot for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. There are also several sledding hills in the area, making it a great place to take the kids for a day of fun. No matter what time of year it is, Ajax Peak is a great place to come and enjoy the beautiful scenery of San Miguel County.

Ajax Peak is a towering mountain in San Miguel County, Colorado. With an elevation of 14,247 feet, it is one of the tallest peaks in the state. Ajax Peak has a long and rich history, dating back thousands of years. The first people to live in the area were the Ute tribe, who arrived around 1000 AD. The Ute named the mountain "Tava," which means "sun Mountain." The mountain was also a sacred site for the Ute, who believed that it was the home of their sun god. In the late 1800s, gold was discovered in the San Juans, and miners began toExplore Ajax Peak. However, it wasn't until 1909 that anyone attempted to summit the mountain. That year, a group of climbers finally reached the summit, and Ajax Peak has been a popular destination ever since. Today, visitors can admire the breathtaking views from the top of Ajax Peak - and they can also learn about its fascinating history.

The best time to visit Ajax Peak is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and dry. From July to September, the average temperature at the summit is around 60 degrees Fahrenheit. However, should you choose to visit during the winter months, you will be rewarded with beautiful views of snow-capped mountains and sparkling glaciers.

1. Ajax Peak is one of the tallest mountains in the San Miguel county, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
2. To reach the summit, you'll need to hike for about 3 miles. Energy bars and plenty of water are a must, as there is no shade along the trail.
3. If you're planning on camping overnight, be sure to get a permit from the San Miguel county office. Only a limited number of people are allowed to camp each night, so it's important to reserve your spot in advance.
4. On your descent, be sure to take extra care on the trail. The loose gravel can be slippery, and it's easy to lose your footing if you're not paying attention.
5. High-altitude hikes like Ajax Peak can be challenging, so it's important to acclimatize to the altitude before starting your hike. There are several ways to do this, but the best method is to spend a few days at lower elevations before attempting the peak.
6. Upon returning to Telluride, treat yourself to a well-deserved meal and celebratory drink at one of the town's many excellent restaurants or bars.

1. Ajax Peak is the 12th highest mountain in Colorado, with an elevation of 14,351 feet.
2. The mountain is located in the San Juan Mountains, and is part of the Uncompahgre National Forest.
3. Ajax Peak is named after the Greek mythological figure Ajax, who was known for his strength and courage.
4. The mountain is a popular spot for hiking and climbing, and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
5. Ajax Peak has been designated as a fourteener, meaning that it has an elevation of at least 14,000 feet.
6. The area around Ajax Peak is known for its abundant wildflowers, which bloom from late spring to early summer. 

It would be wise to allow at least a full day for exploring Ajax Peak. However, if conditions are favorable and you have experience in mountain climbing, it may be possible to reach the summit in a shorter time frame.

To reach the summit of Ajax Peak, begin at the town of Telluride and take the San Miguel River Trail south for about two miles. The trail will then begin to ascend Ajax Peak, gaining about 3,500 feet of elevation over the next three miles. The views from the summit are truly breathtaking, with the entire town of Telluride visible below. 

While there is no entrance fee to explore Ajax Peak, visitors are encouraged to purchase a permit before starting their hike. Permits can be obtained at the trailhead, and they help to cover the cost of maintaining the trail.

The peak is open to the public from 8 AM. to 4 PM., with the last entry at 3 PM. The peak is closed on Tuesdays, except for Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.