North Star Mountain - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

The North Star Mountain area in Park County, Colorado is a beautiful spot for a vacation. There are many things to do in the area, including hiking, biking, fishing, and camping. The hikes range from short and easy to longer and more challenging, so there is something for everyone. The biking trails are also great for all levels, and there are plenty of places to fish in the nearby streams and lakes. Camping is also a popular activity in the area, and there are several campgrounds to choose from. 

North Star Mountain is a peak in the Mosquito Range of the Rocky Mountains of central Colorado. The summit is 12,949 feet (3,953 meters) above sea level and is located in Park County, approximately halfway between Alma and Fairplay. North Star Mountain was originally named Mosquito Peak by prospectors who were hoping to find gold in the area. However, no gold was ever found and the name was eventually changed to North Star Mountain in reference to its location on the northern edge of the Mosquito Range. Although it is not the tallest peak in the range, North Star Mountain offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It is a popular destination for hikers and mountaineers, and has been declared a Wilderness Area by the United States Congress.

North Star Mountain in Park County, Colorado is a beautiful place to visit any time of year. In the spring, the mountain is covered in a carpet of wildflowers. Summer brings warm days perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and picnicking. Autumn is a time for enjoying the crisp air and stunning fall foliage. And in the winter, North Star Mountain is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding. 

1. Pack plenty of food and water. There are no restaurants or stores at the trailhead, and there is no potable water available. 
2. Be prepared for changing weather conditions. The mountain can be chilly even in summer, so bringing a jacket is advised.
3. Start early. The hike to the summit takes about six hours, so you'll want to get an early start to avoid being caught in the dark.
4. Take your time. The altitude can take a toll on your energy levels, so take plenty of breaks during the hike.
5. Respect closure signs: If a trail or area is closed for any reason, please respect the signs and do not go beyond them. This helps to protect both visitors and wildlife.
6.  Leave rocks and fossils where you find them: It may be tempting to take a souvenir from North Star Mountain, but please resist the urge! The rocks and fossils here are part of the mountain's geologic history - leave them for others to enjoy.
7. Stick to established trails: Every year, rescues are required for hikers who wander off-trail and get lost - don't let this happen to you! Follow marked trails and signposts at all times.
    

1. North Star Mountain is the highest peak in Park County, Colorado and the area is home to an abundance of wildlife, including elk, deer, bighorn sheep, and ptarmigan.
2. The area around North Star Mountain receives an average of 300 days of sunshine per year.
3. The mountain is named for its prominent position in the night sky, as it is visible from afar and seems to stay in one place while the other stars rotate around it.
4. There are several lakes and tarns located on or near North Star Mountain, including Lake Evelyn and Diamond Lake.
5. Today, there are no permanent residents on North Star Mountain, but it remains a popular destination for recreation and contemplation."

Depending on how long you want to spend exploring the mountain, it will take between 3 and 5 days to complete the entire loop. However, if you only have a few hours, you can still enjoy hiking to one of the many scenic overlooks.

The North Star Trailhead is located just off of Highway 285, about two miles north of the town of Bailey. From the trailhead, it is a moderate hike of about four miles to the summit. 

The entrance fee for the park is $5 per person, and this includes access to the summit trail. 

North Star Mountain is open year-round, and its hours vary depending on the season. In the winter, the park is open from 9 AM to 5 PM, while in the summer it is open from 8 AM to 8 PM.