Sultan Mountain - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

There’s no shortage of things to do at Sultan Mountain in San Juan County, Colorado. In the summer, the mountain is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and fishing. The trail to the top of the peak is a moderate hike that offers stunning views of the surrounding area. Camping is allowed in designated areas, and there are several lakes and streams where you can fish for trout. In the winter, the mountain is a haven for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. The trails are well-groomed and offer ample opportunity to take in the scenery. So whether you’re looking for a summertime adventure or a winter wonderland, Sultan Mountain is sure to please.

Sultan Mountain is a peak in the San Juan Mountains of southwestern Colorado. The mountain is named for the Sultan of Morocco, who sent an expedition to the New World in search of gold and silver. The expedition arrived in what is now southwestern Colorado in 1858 and began prospecting for minerals. However, they were quickly driven away by the Ute Indians, who considered the area to be sacred ground. In 1874, a group of miners led by Colonel John P. Greene explored the area and found gold and silver deposits on the slopes of Sultan Mountain. They claimed the area for Morocco and began mining operations. However, the Moroccan government soon lost interest in the project and abandoned it. In 1879, a group of American investors took over the mine and continued operations until 1884, when the mine was finally closed due to financial difficulties. Although the mountain has been uninhabited since that time, its rich history continues to attract visitors from all over the world.

The best time to visit Sultan Mountain is in the summer months of July and August. At this time of year, the mountain is covered in wildflowers and the air is clear, providing visitors with stunning views of the surrounding area.

1. Dress in layers, even if the weather is warm at the trailhead. The temperature will drop as you gain elevation, and you may encounter snow and ice even in summer.
2. If you are hiking in winter, be sure to bring traction devices for your shoes or boots. Snow and ice can make the trail very slippery.
3. We recommend starting your hike early in the day to avoid afternoon thunderstorms. However, if you do find yourself caught in a storm, seek shelter immediately!
4. Remember that Sultan Mountain is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, so please take precautions to avoid attracting them to your campsite or picnic area.
5. Be prepared for changing conditions on the trail. Weather can change quickly in the mountains, so it's always a good idea to pack a rain jacket or windbreaker just in case.
6.  If you're planning on spending time at high altitudes, be sure to acclimate yourself before heading up too high too quickly. Symptoms of altitude sickness can include headache, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. If you begin to feel any of these symptoms, descend to a lower elevation immediately!

1. 1. Sultan Mountain is the tallest peak in the area, at 12,966 feet. The mountain is named for its unique shape, which is said to resemble a sultan's turban.
2. Sultan Mountain is home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, deer, bears, and cougars.
3. The mountain is home to several rare plants, including the alpine forget-me-not and the Rocky Mountain columbine.
4. The mountain is also popular with backcountry skiers and snowboarders, who take advantage of the abundant powder snow.
5. Sultan Mountain has been featured in several films and television shows, including "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade" and "The Six Million Dollar Man."
6.  In addition to its natural beauty, Sultan Mountain also has a rich history. It was once home to Native American tribes and was later claimed by Spanish explorers.
7. Today, Sultan Mountain is a protected area managed by the Bureau of Land Management. This ensures that future generations will be able to enjoy this beautiful place for years to come.

The  maximum time required to explore Sultan Mountain is eight hours. However, this estimate is based on the assumption that hikers are familiar with the area and are carrying the proper equipment. For inexperienced hikers or those unfamiliar with the terrain, it is strongly advised that they allow for more time to complete their hike. 

To reach the summit, follow Interstate 70 west from Denver until you reach Exit 244 for Silverthorne/Frisco. From there, take County Road 3 south for about 12 miles until you reach a fork in the road. Bear left at the fork onto Forest Service Road 850, and follow this winding road for about 6 miles until you reach another fork. At this second fork, bear right and continue on FS Road 850 for another 2 miles until you arrive at a parking area at the base of the mountain. From there, hike up the trail to the summit for an unforgettable experience.

There is no entrance fee to explore Sultan Mountain in San Juan County, Colorado. However, there are some parking and camping fees that may apply. Parking at the trailhead costs $5 per vehicle, and overnight camping is $10 per night. 

The area is open year-round, but the hours vary depending on the season. In the summer, the area is open from dawn to dusk. In the winter, the area is open from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.