Dallas Peak - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

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About Dallas Peak

Dallas Peak is the highest point in the San Miguel Mountains and the county of San Miguel. It rises to an elevation of 14,265 feet, making it one of the tallest peaks in the state. Dallas Peak is located in the Uncompahgre National Forest, about 10 miles west of the town of Telluride. It is named after James Dallas, who was the surveyor general of Colorado from 1869 to 1870. Dallas Peak is a popular destination for hikers and climbers, who can reach its summit via a challenging 7-mile hike.

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Things to Do at Dallas Peak

Dallas Peak is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching. The area is home to a variety of plant and animal life, including elk, deer, bighorn sheep, eagles, and hawks. There are also numerous trails that wind through the area, providing hikers with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. For those looking for a more challenging hike, Dallas Peak is also home to the Dallas Divide, a popular spot for backpacking and mountaineering. No matter what your interests are, Dallas Peak is sure to have something for you.

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History of Dallas Peak

At 14,299 feet, Dallas Peak is the highest point in the San Juan Mountains. The peak is located in San Miguel County, Colorado, about 10 miles southwest of the town of Telluride. The first recorded ascent of Dallas Peak was made in 1875 by a team of surveyors working for the U.S. Geological Survey. Since then, the peak has been climbed numerous times by both experienced mountaineers and novice hikers. Dallas Peak provides spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, and it is a popular destination for backpacking, camping, and rock climbing. In recent years, the peak has also become popular with fishermen, as the crystal-clear waters of the nearby lakes and streams offer excellent trout fishing. For those seeking a challenge, Dallas Peak is an enjoyable and rewarding climb.

Best Time to Visit Dallas Peak

The best time to visit Dallas Peak is from late June to early September. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, and the peak is covered in wildflowers. However, Dallas Peak can be crowded during peak season, so visitors should be prepared for some Company.

Tips for Visiting Dallas Peak

  1. Plan your visit in advance. Check the weather forecast and make sure you have proper clothing and gear for the conditions. Start early in the day. This will help you avoid afternoon thunderstorms, which are common in the area.
  2. Be prepared for altitude sickness. If you are not used to hiking at high altitudes, Dallas Peak may be too much for you. Make sure to acclimate to the altitude before embarking on your hike.
  3. Be aware of wildlife. Dallas Peak is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears and mountain lions. Be sure to take precautions while hiking and keep an eye out for animals.
  4.  Dallas Peak can be accessed from both Telluride and Ophir, but the trailhead from Telluride is shorter and less steep.
  5. Dogs are not allowed on the trail due to the presence of wildlife, including bears and mountain lions.
  6. Dallas Peak is a beautiful hike that should not be missed by anyone visiting the San Miguel Mountains.
  7. Stay on the trail: Please stay on the marked trail to help protect fragile alpine ecosystems. off-trail travel can damage delicate vegetation and disturb wildlife habitats.
  8. Pack out your trash: There are no trash cans at Dallas Peak, so please pack out any litter you may have with you. Help us keep our mountains clean!10  Have fun!: Don't forget to stop and enjoy the incredible views as you hike to the top of Dallas Peak!

Interesting Facts and Trivias About Dallas Peak

  1. Dallas Peak is the highest point in the San Miguel County, Colorado. The peak is named after George M. Dallas, who was Vice President of the United States from 1845 to 1849.
  2. The summit of Dallas Peak offers views of several 14,000-foot peaks, including Mount Sneffels and Wilson Peak.
  3. There are a number of hiking trails that lead to the summit of Dallas Peak, including the popularDallas Trail. 
  4. Soaring temperatures and severe weather conditions can be experienced on Dallas Peak, so climbers should be prepared for all conditions before attempting to summit the peak.
  5. The west side of the peak is connected to a lower summit known as Snowslide Gulch.
  6. Dallas Peak is one 8of several high peaks in the San Miguels that are popular with climbers and hikers.

How Much Time Did Visitors Spend at Dallas Peak

The peak can be reached in a few hours, but allowing enough time to explore the area and take in the scenery is essential. A full day is usually sufficient, although starting early in the morning will help to avoid crowds. 

How to Reach Dallas Peak

The peak is located in San Miguel County, Colorado, about 12 miles (19 km) south-southeast of the town of Telluride. Dallas Peak can be reached via a 7.5-mile (12.1 km) hike from the end of the paved road at Pine Creek Campground. The first 3 miles (4.8 km) of the trail are relatively easy, following Pine Creek along a well-defined trail. However, the last 4.5 miles (7.2 km) are much more challenging, gaining over 4,000 feet (1,200 m) in elevation. There are several steep sections and narrow ledges, so hikers should be sure to follow the marked trail carefully.

Entrance Fee of Dallas Peak

While there is no entrance fee to explore Dallas Peak, visitors are required to pay a parking fee at the trailhead. Parking fees help to maintain the trails and facilities in the area.

Opening Hours of Dallas Peak

However, due to its remote location, Dallas Peak is only accessible during certain times of the year. From mid-June to mid-September, the peak is open to the public from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Outside of this window, the peak is closed to visitors.

Attractions Near Dallas Peak

Gilpin Peak

Gilpin Peak

2.68km from Dallas Peak

Gilpin Peak is one of the many Colorado mountain peaks that provides stunning views of the surroundings. The peak is located in Ouray County and has an elevation of 14,028 feet. The best time to summit Gilpin Peak is from late June to early September when the snow has melted and the weather is stable. To reach the summit, hikers can take the East Ridge trail which starts at the South Mineral Campground. The hike is approximately eight miles round trip and provides a moderate level of difficulty

Mount Sneffels

Mount Sneffels

3.23km from Dallas Peak

Mount Sneffels is a popular mountain peak in Ouray County, Colorado. The peak is named after the SNF power plant in nearby Ridgway, Colorado. Mount Sneffels is known for its dramatic views, particularly of the San Juans. The summit can be reached via a challenging hike or an easier scramble. There are also several technical routes up the peak for experienced climbers. Mount Sneffels is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, and it's easy to see why.

Mount Emma

Mount Emma

3.26km from Dallas Peak

Mount Emma is a mountain in San Miguel county, Colorado. It is located in the San Juans, and has a summit elevation of 14,297 feet. The mountain is named after Emma Rice, who was the first woman to climb it. Mount Emma is considered to be one of the easier fourteeners to climb, and is popular with mountaineers and hikers alike. The mountain offers stunning views of the surrounding area, and is a great place for a challenging hike or an overnight camping trip.

Mears Peak

Mears Peak

4.08km from Dallas Peak

Mears Peak is the highest point located in the San Juans, a mountain range in southwestern Colorado. Mears Peak is named for Fred Mears, a surveyor who surveyed the area in the late 19th century. The peak has an elevation of 14,433 feet. Mears Peak is a popular destination for hikers and climbers. There are several trails that lead to the summit, and the views from the top are stunning. The peak is also home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, deer, red foxes, and bighorn sheep.

Yankee Boy Basin

Yankee Boy Basin

4.14km from Dallas Peak

Yankee Boy Basin is a true hidden gem. Surrounded by towering peaks, the basin is home to a number of alpine lakes, waterfalls, and trickling streams. In addition to its natural beauty, Yankee Boy Basin is also known for its vibrant wildflower displays. From late July through August, the basin comes alive with color as a variety of blooms come into bloom. Hiking and camping are popular activities in the basin, and there are a number of trails to explore.

Governor Basin

Governor Basin

4.67km from Dallas Peak

Governor Basin is a scenic valley located in Ouray County. Surrounded by towering peaks, the basin is home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, deer, bighorn sheep, and eagles. Fishing and camping are popular activities in the area, and the Governor Basin Trailhead provides access to a network of hiking trails. In winter, the basin is a popular destination for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Governor Basin is also home to several hot springs, which are open to the public year-round.

Discover More Attractions in San Miguel County, Home of Dallas Peak

San Miguel County

San Miguel County

20 attractions

San Miguel County is located in the southwestern corner of Colorado. It is home to the towns of Telluride, Mountain Village, and Norwood. The county is well-known for its scenic beauty, and it attracts visitors from all over the world. Outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, skiing, and camping are popular in the area. The county also has a rich history, and there are many sites of interest for history buffs. In recent years, the county has become increasingly popular as a destination for wed

Location of Dallas Peak

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