Snowdon Peak - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

At 12,965 feet, Snowdon Peak is the tallest mountain in the San Juan range of the Rocky Mountains. It's a popular destination for hikers and climbers, and there are a number of trails leading to the summit. The most popular route is the Pine Creek Trail, which starts at Pine Creek Lake and follows a 4.5-mile trail to the top. For those looking for a longer hike, the Blue Lakes Trailhead offers a 7-mile hike to Blue Lake, with stunning views of the valley below. Once at the top of Snowdon Peak, there are a number of things to do. Hikers can enjoy 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains, or take a break and have a picnic lunch. There are also a number of small ponds and lakes nearby, perfect for a refreshing swim on a hot day. No matter how you spend your time at Snowdon Peak, it's sure to be an unforgettable experience.

Snowdon Peak is one of the tallest mountains in the San Juan County of Colorado. It is also one of the most popular hiking destinations in the area, with hikers drawn to its summit by the stunning views it offers of the surrounding area. The peak gets its name from early settlers who believed that the snow-capped mountain resembled a white dove, or snowdon. The first recorded ascent of Snowdon Peak was made by a party of miners in 1874, and since then, the mountain has been climbed by thousands of people each year. In addition to its physical challenges, Snowdon Peak also provides hikers with a chance to explore some of the area's rich history. For example, the remnants of an old mining camp can be found near the summit, providing a fascinating glimpse into the lives of those who once worked in the mines. With its mix of physical challenges and historical interest, Snowdon Peak continues to be one of Colorado's most popular hiking destinations.

The best time to visit Snowdon Peak in San Juan County, Colorado is during the summer months of June, July, and August. During this time, the peak is covered in wildflowers and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. The weather is also generally more stable during the summer, making it a good time for hiking and other activities.

1. Start early. The sun reflects off the snow, making it difficult to see as the day wears on.
2.  Bring sunglasses and sunscreen. The sun is intense at high altitudes, and you’ll want to protect your skin.
3. Dress in layers. The temperature can vary widely, even in the summer months.
4. Bring plenty of water. You’ll need to stay hydrated, especially if you’re hiking to the top of the peak.
5.  Leave your valuables at home. There’s no place to store them on the trail, and you don’t want to carry extra weight up the mountain. 
6. There are two main trails that lead to the top of Snowdon Peak, both of which are about 3 miles long. The first trail starts from the South Mineral Campground, while the second trailhead is located at the Molas Pass Visitor Center.
7. Both trails are challenging, with steep sections and loose footing. However, the views from the summit are well worth the effort, so take your time and enjoy the scenery along the way.
8. Remember that you are visitors in this wilderness area, so please respect all posted signs and closures. 

1. Despite its high elevation, Snowdon Peak is actually a relatively easy hike. It is only 6 miles round trip with an elevation gain of 2,400 feet. 
2. The views from the top of Snowdon Peak are incredible. On a clear day, you can see seven different mountain ranges, including the Rockies, Cascades, and Sierra Nevada. 
3. Even though it is located in a wilderness area, Snowdon Peak has a metal USGS marker at the summit. 
4. There are two popular trailheads that lead to Snowdon Peak - South Mineral Creek and North Fork Kendall Mountain. 
5. Tundra vegetation is adapted to withstand high winds and harsh conditions such as extended drought or cold temperatures. 
6. Some of the common plant species found on Snowdon Peak include alpine Bentgrass, alpine Mouse-ear Chickweed, and alpine Slender Wheatgrass. 
    

It is recommended that you allot at least 6 hours to explore Snowdon Peak. This is because the peak is located at an elevation of 12,965 feet (3,963 meters), and the terrain can be challenging.

To reach Snowdon Peak, begin at the San Juan County Visitor Center in Silverton. From Silverton, take County Road 2 south for approximately 12 miles to the trailhead at the end of the road. The trail to the peak is a strenuous hike that gains over 3,000 feet of elevation, so be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks. The views from the top are well worth the effort, especially on a clear day when you can see all the way to Durango. Snowdon Peak is a popular destination, so be prepared for crowds if you visit on a weekend.

There is no entrance fee to explore Snowdon Peak in San Juan County, Colorado. However, there is a parking fee of $5 per vehicle. There are also overnight camping fees for those who wish to stay longer and explore the area.

The peak is open to the public year-round. However, due to its high elevation, the peak is only accessible during certain hours. From June through September, the peak is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. From October through May, the peak is open from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.