Western Slope

Overview

This is a short but pleasant route to the top of Blue Mountain. Those with a 4x4 can park less than ½ mile walking distance from the summit cairn. Surprisingly, a faint footpath charts a course from FS 244 right up the west slope of Blue Mountain, then along the summit ridge to the register jar. This would make a nice warm-up for a beginner off-trail navigator.

Roundtrip Mileage: 1 mile
Elevation Gain: 300 feet

Getting There

From Florissant	From Lake George
Less than 1 mile west of Florissant on Hwy 24, turn left/south on CR 46. Follow CR 46 3-4 miles to CR 98. About 1 mile past the junction of CR 98 and CR 61, turn right on FS 244. Follow FS 244 a little more than a mile as it begins ascending the west slope of Blue Mountain, parking in a broad, flattish area before the road steepens.	In Lake George, turn left/southwest on CR 96. At a little over 1 mile, take CR 61 due south. CR 61 circles Blue Mountain to its east. About 1 mile past the junction of CR 98 and CR 61, turn right on FS 244. Follow FS 244 a little more than a mile as it begins ascending the west slope of Blue Mountain, parking in a broad, flattish area before the road steepens.

FS 244 is a surprisingly smooth, gentle 4x4 road, though you will be happy to have high clearance in dry conditions, even if 4-wheel drive is not needed. In wet conditions, however, do not proceed without a 4x4.

Route Description

• Continue on FS 244 as it steepens, taking care not to turn off on one of the spur roads.


• To the south of a small mining shed, a casual use trail heads directly up the west slope of Blue Mountain.


• Continue ascending the slope, scrambling up or by-passing a rock outcrop.


• Upon gaining the ridge, a relatively well-defined use trail carries you south-southeast to the summit cairn and register jar.

Essential Gear

• Trail map (Trails Illustrated #137 (Pikes Peak, Cañon City) would meet most needs)


• Compass


• Comfortable hiking boots or walking shoes


• Snowshoes after a heavy snowfall


• Water and snacks


• A camera to save memories of the high country views


• First aid kit


• Other standard backcountry essentials

Images

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