Mount Sneffels(edit)

based on 156 tracks & routes | |

DIFFICULT

#2 hike out of 15 in Uncompahgre National Forest |

DIFFICULT

7.0 mi

Distance

2 hrs 56 min

Time

3,263 ft

Elev Gain

Overview

This is a difficult out and back trail to Mount Sneffels in Uncompahgre National Forest.

This trail goes by Wrights Lake.

Depending on your 4x4 capabilities, this hike may be slightly shorter or longer. Passenger cars can make it to the Governor / Yankee boy split. 4x4 vehicles can typically make it to the bathrooms or the trail head.

This hike is on a 4x4 road and then leads to a massive scree field which makes up the south slopes of Mt. Sneffels. Head up the left side of this large slope on the larger rocks (not the loose dirt) to the Lavender Col. This is the low saddle lookers right of Mt. Sneffels, if approaching from Yankee boy. From here, you will head west or right up the steeper couloir. Eventually you will make a move out left on a rock step onto the face. From here just trend up and left to the summit.

Make sure to head back down the way you came. There are other routes from the summit (SW ridge, The North Buttress, etc), however they are much more difficult and could result in injury if you are not prepared for more technical climbing.

Getting Started

Look at the weather forecast for the peaks. Weather can be much different on the summit than it is in Telluride or Ouray. Thunder and lightning are common on high peaks.

Taking Children

There is a high probability of rock fall from other hikers and natural occurrences. Most of this trail has steep, very loose terrain. Not recommended for children.