Courthouse Mountain - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

There's no shortage of things to do when you visit Courthouse Mountain in Ouray County, Colorado. In the summer months, hike or bike the many trails that wind through the area. Or take a scenic drive on the San Juan Skyway, which offers stunning views of the mountains. For a more adrenaline-pumping experience, try your hand at rock climbing or zip-lining. And don't forget to explore the charming town of Ouray, with its shops, restaurants, and museums. 

Ouray County's Courthouse Mountain has a long and rich history. The mountain was firstnamed by early settlers who were impressed by its resemblance to a courthouse. The early settlers also used the mountain as a lookout point for fires and for spotting game. The first recorded ascent of the mountain was made in 1874 by a group of miners. Since then, the mountain has been popular with climbers, hikers, and picnickers. In recent years, Courthouse Mountain has become best known as the site of the annual Ouray Ice Festival. During the festival, climbers from all over the world come to compete in ice-climbing competitions. The festival is a celebration of the mountain's history and its role in our county's culture.

The best time to visit Courthouse Mountain in Ouray County, Colorado is during the summer months. The average high temperature in July is 85 degrees, and the average low is only 60 degrees. This makes for perfect hiking weather, as you can enjoy cool temperatures and beautiful scenery without having to worry about being too cold or hot. 

1. Start early: The trail to the summit of Courthouse Mountain is strenuous, so it's best to start your hike early in the day. That way, you'll have plenty of time to enjoy the views from the top. 
2. Be aware of your surroundings: Courthouse Mountain is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears and mountain lions. Be sure to stay on the trail and make noise if you see any animals. 
3. Leave no trace: Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles when visiting Courthouse Mountain. Pack out all trash, and be careful not to damage any plants or wildlife habitat. 
4. .Check avalanche conditions before you go: If you're planning to hike during winter months , be sure to check avalanche conditions before heading out . You can find current conditions here. 

1. The peak of Courthouse Mountain stands at an elevation of 12,875 feet (3,925 meters).
2. The first recorded ascent of Courthouse Mountain was made by J.W. Williamson and W.A. Jackson in 1874.
3.  The easiest route to the summit of Courthouse Mountain is via the south ridge, which is a Class 2 hike.
4. There are several different species of wildflowers that can be found blooming on Courthouse Mountain, including columbine, larkspur, and paintbrush.
5. The round-trip hike from the trailhead is approximately 8 miles and involves some scrambling over talus fields near the top.
    

Depending on your fitness level and the routes you take, it can take anywhere from a couple of hours to a full day to explore the area. However, if you really want to make the most of your time, then it's worth planning ahead and giving yourself at least three or four hours.

To reach Courthouse Mountain, take Highway 550 north from Ouray for about 10 miles. Then turn left onto County Road 4 (Broadway) and follow it for about 1 mile. Turn right onto Campbird Road and follow it for another 2 miles until you reach the trailhead. The trail to the summit of Courthouse Mountain is about 2 miles long and gains about 1,700 feet in elevation. 

There is no entrance fee to explore this beautiful area. 

The courthouse is open to the public from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM Monday through Friday. The mountain is open for hiking and scrambling from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.