Diamond Peak - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

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About Diamond Peak

Diamond Peak is the highest summit in the Ruby Mountains of Colorado. The peak is located in the southwest corner of Moffat County, about 10 miles west of the town of Craig. Despite its remote location, Diamond Peak is a popular destination for hikers and mountaineers. The mountain is part of the Zirkel Wilderness and is surrounded by several smaller peaks, including Pilot Knob, Pear Peak, and levels Peak.

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Things to Do at Diamond Peak

For the outdoorsy types, there's hiking, camping, and fishing in the summer months, and snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and sleigh riding in the winter. You can also explore one of the many ghost towns in the area - some of which are said to be haunted!

If you're looking for a thrill, there's white water rafting on the Colorado River, or you can take a scenic helicopter ride over the Rockies. For something a little more sedate, there's golfing, horseback riding, and wildlife watching. And of course no visit to Diamond Peak would be complete without taking a dip in one of the many hot springs. 

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History of Diamond Peak

Diamond Peak is a mountain in Moffat County, Colorado. Diamond Peak was originally named for its diamond-shaped summit. The mountain was first climbed in 1874 by A. D. Wilson and W. S. Cooper. The peak is now home to a ski area and a summer camp. Diamond Peak Ski Area was established in 1937 and is one of the oldest ski areas in Colorado.

Best Time to Visit Diamond Peak

The best time to visit Diamond Peak in Moffat County, Colorado is in the summer months of June, July and August. During this time, the peak is open forsightseeing and hiking, and the weather is generally mild and sunny. 

Tips for Visiting Diamond Peak

  1. Pack your hiking boots and an adventurous spirit! Diamond Peak is known for its challenging hikes, so make sure you're prepared for a strenuous hike. However, the views from the top are definitely worth the effort.
  2. You'll want to pack plenty of water and snacks, as there are no food or drink options once you reach the peak.
  3. Check the weather forecast in advance and be prepared for changes in the weather. Mountain weather can be unpredictable, so it's always better to be safe than sorry.
  4. There are steep drop-offs in some areas, so it's important to stay on marked trails and lookout for hazards.
  5. The streams around Diamond Peak are home to trout, salmon, and other fish species. A valid Colorado fishing license is required for anyone 16 years or older.
  6.  Hunting is allowed in some areas of Diamond Peak, but there are strict regulations that must be followed. Be sure to check the rules before heading out into the backcountry.
     

Interesting Facts and Trivias About Diamond Peak

  1.  At 12,943 feet, Diamond Peak is the seventh tallest mountain in the state of Colorado and is located in the Park Range, which is part of the Rocky Mountains
  2. The Park Range is home to a number of other peaks, including Mt. Elbert, the highest point in Colorado.
  3. The mountain is named for the diamond-shaped mineral crystals that can be found in its lava flows. 

How Much Time Did Visitors Spend at Diamond Peak

You should plan on spending at least a full day exploring the area. This will give you enough time to hike to the top of the peak and enjoy the stunning views, while also allowing you to check out some of the other attractions in the area. 

How to Reach Diamond Peak

From Denver, take I-70 west towards the Eisenhower Tunnel. Just before the tunnel, take exit 216 for US-6 E/Loveland Ski Area. Continue on US-6 E for about 48 miles until you reach the small town of Dillon. In Dillon, take a right onto Soda Creek Rd. and follow it for about 4 miles until it ends at a T-intersection. At the T-intersection, take a left onto Swan Mountain Rd and continue for about 9 miles until you reach the summit of Swan Mountain. From there, follow the signs for Diamond Peak - the trailhead will be on your right.

Entrance Fee of Diamond Peak

The entrance fee for Diamond Peak is $5 per person. This fee helps to cover the costs of maintaining the trails and providing educational materials. 

Opening Hours of Diamond Peak

The opening hours of Diamond Peak in Moffat County, Colorado are from 9am to 4pm.

Attractions Near Diamond Peak

Browns Park National Wildlife Refuge

Browns Park National Wildlife Refuge

16.91km from Diamond Peak

Browns Park National Wildlife Refuge is a protected area in Moffat County, Colorado. The refuge was established in 1980 to provide habitat for wildlife, including elk, bighorn sheep, mule deer, pronghorn antelope, and black-footed ferrets. The refuge also protects the historic Brown's Park Ute Indian Reservation. The park is home to a variety of landscapes, including sagebrush steppe, riverine forest, and marshes. There are also numerous hiking trails and camping sites.

Gates of Lodore

Gates of Lodore

26.43km from Diamond Peak

The Gates of Lodore is a canyon located in Moffat County, Colorado. The canyon was carved by the Green River and is considered one of the most scenic and popular rafting destinations in the state. The Gates of Lodore features several rapids, including the famous Lodore Falls, which is considered one of the most challenging Rapids in the state. Rafting through the Gates of Lodore is an unforgettable experience and is sure to provide excitement for adventurers of all levels.

Steamboat Rock

Steamboat Rock

47.07km from Diamond Peak

Steamboat Rock is a large rock formation in Moffat County, Colorado. It is located on the banks of the Colorado River and is a popular spot for hiking, camping, and picnicking. The rock gets its name from its resemblance to a steamboat, and it is one of the largest such formations in the state. The area around Steamboat Rock is rich in geological history, and the rock itself is thought to be about 1.6 billion years old. Today, it is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

Echo Park

Echo Park

48.65km from Diamond Peak

Echo Park is located in Moffat County, Colorado. The town is situated on the banks of the eponymous Echo Park, a large body of water that is popular for fishing and boating. Echo Park is surrounded by mountains, and the town's main street runs along the shore of the lake. The town's economy is based on tourism, and there are several hotels and restaurants in the area. Echo Park is also home to a number of art galleries and shops. The town's population is just over 1,000 people.

Dinosaur National Monument

Dinosaur National Monument

49.31km from Diamond Peak

Dinosaur National Monument is located in Moffat County, Colorado. The monument is home to a large concentration of dinosaur bones, as well as a variety of other fossils. In addition to its paleontological significance, the monument also contains a wealth of geological and natural history. There is also an educational visitor center which teaches about the geological history of the area and the dinosaurs that used to live there.

Kenney Reservoir

Kenney Reservoir

94km from Diamond Peak

Kenney Reservoir is a small, picturesque body of water located in Rio Blanco County, Colorado. The reservoir was formed by the construction of a dam on the Rio Grande River in the early twentieth century. Today, the reservoir is a popular spot for fishing, camping, and picnicking. The Kenney Reservoir State Wildlife Area surrounds the reservoir and provides opportunities for wildlife watching and hiking. Visitors to the area can also enjoy stunning views of the nearby mountains.

Discover More Attractions in Moffat County, Home of Diamond Peak

Moffat County

Moffat County

12 attractions

Moffat County is located in northwest Colorado. It is known for its stunning scenery, including the mountains of the Continental Divide and the vast plains of the American West. The county is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, and more. In recent years, Moffat County has also become increasingly popular with tourists seeking to experience the unique culture and history of the American West.

Location of Diamond Peak

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