Mount Lincoln - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

Mount Lincoln is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds, and there are plenty of things to do in the area. Hikers can explore miles of trails that wind through forests and past alpine lakes, while mountain bikers can take on challenging single-track routes. In winter, the area is a Mecca for backcountry skiers and snowboarders, who can enjoy untouched powder runs amidst breathtaking scenery. And no matter what time of year it is, mountaineers can test their skills on the numerous peaks that dot the landscape.

There are several campgrounds located within the park, each with its own unique amenities. Fishing is also a popular activity at Mount Lincoln. There are numerous lakes and streams within the park, making it a perfect place to cast a line. 

Mount Lincoln is a peak in the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains of North America. The 14,296-foot (4357 m) thirteener is located in the Pike National Forest, 10.6 miles (17.1 km) southwest by south of downtown Fairplay in Park County, Colorado, United States. Lincoln was known as Fairfax Peak until 1916 when the United States Board on Geographic Names changed the name to avoid duplication with Fairfax County, Virginia. The mountain is named in honor of Abraham Lincoln, 16th President of the United States.

The first recorded ascent of the peak was by Hiram Bradley and two others in 1864. Bradford wrote in his diary that they were forced to spend a night "in a blizzard high up on one of the smarting peaks" and that their occupation during this enforced bivouac was chiefly "to look out for Indians". In 1906, Frederickette Maisel climbed Lincoln with her father F. M. Maisel and guides Robert Ormes and William Pfeiffer. Pfeiffer later served as the first superintendent of Rocky Mountain National Park. He named many prominent features in the park, including Chaos Canyon and Hallett Peak. Frederickette Maisel married TellerAmes in 1910; Teller was one of the founders of Ames Laboratory andIowa State University's College of Engineering. The Teller-Maisel party made another ascentof Mount Lincoln in 1926."

The best time to visit Mount Lincoln in Park County, Colorado is during the summer months. From June through August, the weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal for hiking, camping, and enjoying the great outdoors. 

1. . Bring your hiking shoes! Mount Lincoln is home to some of the best hiking trails in Colorado. 
2. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy a leisurely meal at one of the many picnic areas.
3. If you're visiting in the summer, be sure to pack sunscreen and a hat. 
4. Respect the environment - please don't litter or damage any plant life.
5.  Know your limits. Mount Lincoln is home to some of the tallest peaks in Colorado, so be realistic about your hiking abilities. If you're not an experienced hiker, stick to shorter trails and be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks.
6. Stay on designated trails. With so much beautiful scenery to take in, it can be tempting to wander off the beaten path. However, it's important to stay on designated trails to protect yourself and the environment.
7. nce you're inside the park, take some time to explore all that it has to offer. There are numerous hiking trails, and the scenery is simply breathtaking. Choose a trail that suits your fitness level, and be sure to wear appropriate footwear.
8. Fishing is a popular pastime in Mount Lincoln, and there are many great spots for anglers of all skill levels. A fishing license is required for anyone 16 years of age or older; these can be obtained at any Colorado state park office or online.
9. Hunting is prohibited in Mount Lincoln, but there are many great hunting areas located nearby if you're interested in this activity. Be sure to check all regulations before heading out, and always practice safety when handling firearms.
    

1. Mount Lincoln was named after President Abraham Lincoln by a group of surveyors in 1862.
2. Mount Lincoln is part of the Mosquito Range, a subrange of the Rockies that includes several other fourteeners (mountains with an elevation of at least 14,000 feet).
3. In addition to being a popular recreation spot, Mount Lincoln has also played an important role in Colorado history. In 1864, General William Tecumseh Sherman used the mountain as a vantage point to survey Union troops during the Civil War.
4. There are a number of lakes in the vicinity of Mount Lincoln, including Lost Lake, Mirror Lake, and Ruby Red Lake. 
5. Several research projects have been conducted on Mount Lincoln in recent years, studying everything from alpine ecology to glacial melt rates.
6. In the winter months, the area around Mount Lincoln is popular for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. 
7. Mount Lincoln is part of Pike National Forest and is managed by the U.S. Forest Service."

The summit can be reached in a day hike, but most people require two to three days to explore the entire mountain.

To reach the summit, take Highway 285 south from Denver for about an hour. Then, turn west onto Highway 7 and drive for another hour to the town of Fairplay. From Fairplay, it's a short drive up to the trailhead.

The entrance fee for Mount Lincoln is $3 per person or $6 per family.

The park is open all year around and the hours may vary depending on the season.