Page Type:
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Mountain/Rock |
|---|---|
Lat/Lon:
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37.84000°N / 108.096°W |
Activities:
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Mountaineering |
Season:
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Summer |
Elevation:
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13290 ft / 4051 m |
|
Overview
Dolores Peak is located in southwest Colorado. It rises majestically from an isolated group of three mountains at the very western edge of the San Juan Mountains. Dolores Peak is located in the San Miguel Mountains, and is also part of the Lizard Head Wilderness and the San Juan National Forest. The other two members of the group include the 13,261’ Middle Peak, and the 12,595’ Dunn Peak.Dolores Peak and its two neighbors live a quiet existence in the shadow of the famous Wilson Group 14ers. Located far from the major population centers along the Front Range, and containing no Centennial Peaks, this relatively unknown mountain group receives little attention and few climbers. However, these mountains make worthy climbing objectives for anyone willing to venture off the beaten path.
Getting There
From the famous Lizard Head Pass on Colorado 145, drive about five miles south, then turn right onto the scenic Forest Road 535. The road starts heading uphill immediately on a narrow switchback. After about two miles, the road reaches a scenic plateau. You’ll get your first glimpse of Dolores Peak from here. After about eight miles, the road reaches the Burro Bridge Campground. Continue west on the road for another two miles. You will then reach a road junction. Dunton is located just south of the junction. Turn right at the junction onto Forest Road 611, also known as the Black Mesa Road. This road heads for the Groundhog Reservoir. Drive northwest about five miles on this road. The road then makes a sharp left turn as it crosses Fish Creek. You will then see a rough side road on the left bank of Fish Creek. Drive up this side road a short distance and park. The elevation here is 10,000’. Forest Roads 535 and 611 are in generally good condition.Mountain Conditions
Contact the Dolores Ranger District at 970-882-7296 for the latest information.Forest Service Map: San Juan National Forest.
Topo Maps: Dolores Peak; Groundhog Mountain.
1 Routes