Palmyra Peak - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

If you're looking for breathtaking views and a chance to get away from it all, Palmyra Peak in San Miguel County, Colorado is the perfect place for you. Located in the scenic San Juan Mountains, Palmyra Peak offers a variety of activities for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels. For those who want to explore the area, there are miles of hiking and biking trails winding through the beautiful landscape. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, you can try your hand at rock climbing or backcountry camping. And of course, no visit to Palmyra Peak would be complete without taking in the stunning views from the summit. Whether you're looking for a challenging hike or a chance to relax in nature, Palmyra Peak has something for everyone.

Located in the San Juan mountains of southwestern Colorado, Palmyra Peak is one of the state's highest and most popular peaks. The peak was first climbed in 1874 by a group of miners from the nearby town of Ouray. Since then, it has been climbed countless times by hikers and mountaineers from all over the world. Although the summit is only about 12,700 feet above sea level, the views from the top are truly spectacular. On a clear day, climbers can see four states - Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, and Arizona - as well as several major mountain ranges, including the Rockies, the San Juans, and the Sangre de Cristos. Palmyra Peak is a popular destination for both day hikes and multi-day backpacking trips. In recent years, it has also become a popular rock climbing destination. With its stunning views and challenging routes, Palmyra Peak is sure to remain a popular destination for years to come.

The best time to visit Palmyra peak is during the summer months. From June to August, the weather is warm and dry, making it ideal for hiking and camping. The views from the top of Palmyra peak are especially beautiful during this time of year, as the wildflowers are in bloom and the leaves on the trees are a deep green.

1.  Make sure to bring your hiking boots! The 4.6 miles to the top of Palmyra Peak are no joke.
2. Don't forget your sunscreen and sunglasses - the sun can be brutal at high altitudes.
3. Enjoy the incredible views from the top - on a clear day, you can see all the way to New Mexico.
4. Be sure to sign the guestbook at the peak - it's fun to see who else has made the climb.
5. descent back down the mountain carefully - it's just as tough going down as it is coming up!
6. There are several stream crossings along the trail, so be sure to wear shoes that can get wet.
7. Once you reach the top of Palmyra Peak, enjoy panoramic views of the San Juan mountains and the valley below.
8. Dogs are not allowed on the trail due to wildlife concerns.
9. Follow Leave No Trace principles by packing out all trash and leaving rocks and other natural objects undisturbed.

1. Palmyra Peak rises to an elevation of 14,070 feet, making it the seventh-highest peak in the state of Colorado.
2. The first recorded ascent of Palmyra Peak was made in 1874 by a party led by Addison Young.
3. Palmyra Peak is home to a variety of wildlife, including ptarmigans, pikas, and marmots.
4. The views from the top are breathtaking, with sights of some of Colorado's most iconic mountains, including Mount Sneffels and Wilson Peak.
5. Palmyra Peak is a popular destination for backcountry skiers and snowboarders.

Depending on your fitness level and hiking experience, the hike to the summit can take anywhere from four to eight hours. However, even if you don't have time to reach the summit, there are still plenty of wonderful things to see along the way.

To reach the peak, take Highway 550 north from Durango. After about 30 miles, you'll see a sign for the turn-off to Silver Pick Road. Follow Silver Pick Road for about eight miles until you see a turn-off for Geneva Gulch on your left. From Geneva Gulch, it's a short hike to Palmyra Peak.

There is no fee to visit Palmyra Peak. However, a $5 per vehicle per day parking pass is required if you plan to park in the lot at the trailhead. 

The peak is accessible year-round, but the best time to hike is from June to September. During this period, the peak is open from 6 AM to 8 PM.