Front Range (CO)
Overview
Coon Hill is just west of the Continental Divide in Northern Colorado. Coon Hill is less than 1 mile northwest of the west end of the Eisenhower Tunnel of Interstate 70. It is the highest peak in the Williams Fork Mountains. Coon Hill was once a popular summer hike; there used to be a summit register, but recent parking restrictions have made it less accessible.The South Ridge route is second class and is 2 miles roundtrip with 1217 vertical feet of elevation gain. Whereas, the Northeast Ridge is third class and 2.8 miles roundtrip with 1217 vertical feet of elevation gain.
Coon Hill offers excellent spring skiing off the north, east and south faces. The following refers to the spring. Ascending from the south is not too difficult. It requires an easy skin to the South Ridge and up to the summit. Due to the steepness (35 degrees) this should only be skied when spring conditions exist.
Getting There
Exit I-70 westbound directly after the Eisenhower Tunnel and park on the north side of the highway (11160'). Do not park near the maintenance building. This makes the staff nervous. Head north about 0.4 miles and Coon Hill will be obvious on your left. More detail in "Colorado Mountain Hikes for Everyone - Routes and Maps to 105 Named Summits" by Dave Muller. |  |  |  |  |
Ski Runs
The following should only be skied when spring snow stability conditions exist...generally no earlier than April.North Face: I D7 R2, 1000 vertical feet. Exit: Gain northeast ridge and ski the east face.
East Face: I D6 R1, 1000 vertical feet. Exit: Follow valley back to parking.
South Face: I D8 R3, 1200 vertical feet. Exit: Gain south ridge and ski east face.
D System
Skiing Coon Hill's North Face
Red Tape
No permits, fees or passes required to my knowledge. No seasonal closures or rules for wildlife conservation or safety. Recent parking restrictions at west portal of Eisenhower Tunnel.Mountain Conditions
7 Day Forecast for Loveland Pass, COLinks
Stan Wagon's Coon Hill PageLists of John
