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14,092 ft · Elk Mountains, Colorado
Snowmass Mountain
Snowmass Mountain is a 14,092 ft peak in the Elk Mountains, Colorado. The standard route is the East Slopes: 22 mi, 5,800 ft of gain, Class 3.
Snowmass Mountain at a glance
- Elevation14,092 ft4,295 m
- RouteEast SlopesClass 3
- Distance22 mi5,800 ft gain
- Time13 – 16 hrsVery Hard effort
- SeasonJul – Sep
- RangeElk MountainsColorado
Climbing the East Slopes
From Aspen, Colorado, drive to the Snowmass Creek Road trailhead. The approach to Snowmass Lake is about 8 miles and most parties camp overnight. The S-shaped couloir holds snow well into summer and may require ice axe and crampons. Glacier travel skills helpful on the upper mountain. Loose rock on the final push to the summit. Remote, committing objective in the spectacular Elk Range. Plan for 2-3 days minimum. Class 3 terrain with some exposure. The setting around Snowmass Lake is one of Colorado's most beautiful. Start early for weather on summit day.
Gear and hazards
What to bring
Backpack (25–45 L)
Water
Offline Maps
Headlamp
Satellite Communicator
Whistle
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Hiking Boots
Midlayer
Insulated Jacket
Hardshell Jacket
Sun Hat
Warm Hat
Buff
Midweight Gloves
Trekking Poles
Helmet
GPS Device
Power Bank
Water Filter
First-Aid Kit
Emergency Bivy
What to watch for
- Snow near summit
- Ice near summit
- Glacier travel
- Loose rock
- Steep exposure
- Storms
- Altitude sickness
- High altitude
- High winds
- Low visibility
- Rockfall
- Remote location
Quests with Snowmass Mountain
Colorado 14ers
Lower 48 14ers
Colorado CentennialsPeaks near Snowmass Mountain
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Snowmass Mountain?
Snowmass Mountain is 14,092 feet (4,295 m) tall. It is in the Elk Mountains, Colorado.
How does Snowmass Mountain rank among the Colorado 14ers?
At 14,092 feet, Snowmass Mountain is the 34th highest of the 58 Colorado 14ers. The highest is Mount Elbert.
How hard is it to climb Snowmass Mountain?
The East Slopes is Class 3, which means scrambling, where you use your hands to climb and a fall could be serious. Yak rates the overall effort very hard: 22 miles with 5,800 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to climb Snowmass Mountain?
Most people take 13 – 16 hours round trip on the East Slopes, covering 22 miles with 5,800 feet of elevation gain. That is a long day, so start before dawn and set a turnaround time.
Is Snowmass Mountain dangerous to climb?
It has real risks: crevasses on the glacier, exposed sections where a fall would be serious and rockfall from loose rock. Teams rope up for glacier travel, and many first-timers climb with a guide.
Do you need a helmet for Snowmass Mountain?
It is a good idea. Loose rock and rockfall are common on the East Slopes, so a helmet is on the gear list.
Will you get altitude sickness on Snowmass Mountain?
You might. Most people feel the altitude above 8,000 feet, and Snowmass Mountain reaches 14,092 feet. Spend a night or two at elevation first, drink plenty of water and turn back if a headache, nausea or dizziness gets worse.
What time should you start climbing Snowmass Mountain?
Early. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, so aim to be off the summit and the exposed upper mountain by early afternoon. At 13 – 16 hours round trip, many parties start in the dark.
When is the best time to climb Snowmass Mountain?
The usual climbing window is July to September. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.
What is the trailhead elevation for Snowmass Mountain?
The East Slopes starts at about 8,410 feet, roughly 5,682 feet below the summit.
What routes go up Snowmass Mountain?
The standard route is the East Slopes. Other routes include the West Slope.
Climb Snowmass Mountain with Yak
Plan your route on a topo map, check the summit forecast, then log your climb and see what is left on your list