13 Viewpoints to Explore in Saguache County

Antora Peak is a summit in the San Juan Mountains of Saguache County, Colorado. The peak is located in the Brainard Lake Recreation Area of the Arapaho National Forest. The peak is named for Antora Breedlove, one of the first settlers in the area. The peak rises to an elevation of 12,941 feet and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. There are several hiking trails that lead to the summit, and the peak is popular with climbers and mountaineers.

Challenger Point is a mountain peak in the San Luis Valley. The peak is named for the Space Shuttle Challenger, which broke up shortly after liftoff on January 28, 1986. The Crew Memorial, located at the summit of Challenger Point, honors the seven astronauts who lost their lives in the accident. The memorial consists of a large granite boulder with a plaque listing the names of the crew members. It is a popular destination for hikers and climbers, and offers stunning views of the valley below.

Crestone Needle is a dramatic fourteener in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Standing at an elevation of 14,197 feet, it is one of the tallest peaks in the state. The Needle is known for its steep, exposed north face, which provides challenge and excitement for climbers of all levels. In addition to its height, Crestone Needle is also notable for its unique geology. It is composed of a type of metamorphic rock known as gneiss, which is found in only a few other places in the world.

Crestone Peak is the highest summit of the Crestones, a cluster of high peaks in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains of Colorado. The peak is also the seventh-highest peak in the state and the twentieth-highest peak in the contiguous United States. Crestone Peak is notable for its dramatic relief, as it rises over 7,000 feet from the San Luis Valley floor in only 2 miles. Crestone Peak is a popular destination for mountaineers and hikers, and it is frequently climbed via its east face.

Halfmoon Pass is a scenic mountain pass located in Saguache County, situated at an elevation of 12,059 feet and provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The area around the pass is popular with hikers, campers, and mountain bikers, and it is also a popular destination for backcountry skiers. Halfmoon Pass is one of several high mountain passes in Colorado that remain open year-round, and it provides access to a number of beautiful alpine lakes.

Towering at an impressive 14,165 feet, Kit Carson Peak is the sixth highest peak in the state of Colorado. The peak is part of the Sangre de Cristo mountain range and offers stunning views of the nearby peaks and valleys. Although it is a popular destination for hikers and climbers, the summit can be challenging to reach, requiring a strenuous hike or a technical climb. However, those who make the effort are rewarded with one of the most breathtaking panoramas in all of Colorado.

La Garita Wilderness is a federally protected wilderness area established in 1980 and covers a total of 37,000 acres. The area is known for its rugged mountain terrain, as well as its abundant wildlife. Visitors to the region can enjoy hiking, camping, fishing, and horseback riding. It is also home to several rare plant and animal species, including the Gunnison sage grouse. With its diverse landscapes and abundant recreation opportunities, this Wilderness is a cherished natural treasure.

Marshall Pass is a high mountain pass that has been used for centuries by Native Americans and early settlers. The pass was named for James Marshall, who discovered gold in California in 1848. In the late 1800s, the Denver & Rio Grande Railroad built a line through the pass, and it became an important route for trade and travel. Today, Marshall Pass is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and cross-country skiing. The scenic route offers stunning views of the valley below.

Mount Herard is the highest peak in Saguache County, Colorado. The mountain is part of the Sangre de Cristo Range, which runs along the eastern edge of the county. Mount Herard rises to an elevation of 12,966 feet. The peak is located in the San Isabel National Forest and is accessible via a number of hiking trails. The summit offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Wildlife enthusiasts may spot bighorn sheep, elk, and other animals while hiking in the area.

Mount Ouray is a mountain peak in Saguache County. With an elevation of 12,943 feet, it is the county's highest point. The mountain is located in the San Juan Mountains, a range of the Rocky Mountains. Mount Ouray is named for Chief Ouray of the Ute tribe, who lived in the area. The mountain has been a popular destination for hikers and climbers since the late 19th century. A trail to the summit was built in 1887, making it one of the first mountains in Colorado to be accessible by trail.

The Rio Grande National Forest is located in Saguache County. The forest includes the San Luis Valley, which is the largest high-altitude valley in the world. It is home to many species of wildlife, including elk, deer, bighorn sheep, and pronghorn. The forest also has a wide variety of birds, including eagles, hawks, and owls. This National Forest is a popular destination for hikers, campers, and fishermen. There are over 700 miles of trails in the forest, as well as four Wilderness Areas.

San Luis Peak is the highest mountain in Saguache County. With an elevation of 14,014 feet, it is also the seventh-highest peak in the state of Colorado. The mountain is located in the Sangre de Cristo Range, about 60 miles southwest of Denver. San Luis Peak was originally named Mount Rosa by early explorers, but its name was changed to San Luis Peak in 1861 in honor of Saint Louis, Missouri. The mountain is a popular destination for hikers and climbers.

Stewart Peak is the highest point in Saguache County, Colorado. It is located in the San Juan Mountains, and its summit offers stunning views of the surrounding area. The peak is made up of granite, and it is named after John Stewart, who was the first person to reach the summit. Stewart Peak is a popular destination for hikers and climbers, and it is also home to a variety of wildlife. The peak is accessible via a number of trails, and there are several campsites located nearby.