San Juan Range
Overview
McMillan Peak is a mountain summit in San Juan County, Colorado. McMillan Peak climbs to 12,805 feet (=3,903 meters) above sea level. It is a very popular peak, easily reachable from the top of Red Mountain Pass.Trailhead: 11,060 feet (the best place to park your car is the second parking lot on the top of Red Mountain Pass, on the east side).
There is a dirt road in the summer, and usually a well ski marked trail in the winter. You just follow this trail heading in the southeast direction. You will see several old mining structures along this stretch. Soon, about 1 mile, you will see a sign for Saint Paul Lodge.
Saint Paul Lodge: 11,400 feet (only 340 feet gain), distance 1 mile.
Continue towards southeast and soon you will see a gentle rounded peak - ridge leading to the top of McMillan Peak. There are usually many ski tracks here, and the skiing is superb. There are many options, nice bowls, and lower sections offer great tree skiing.
McMillan Peak is a great place for a beginner since there are many choices for an easy terrain.
On the way to Saint Paul lodge
The trail is described above, and it is easy to follow in the marks of other skiers. Silverton boys |  Sign |  Saint Paul Lodge |  Artistic? |  Near Red Mountain Pass |
From the lodge to the top of the peak
There are usually several path leading from the lodge to the top of the mountain. I just followed in the ski steps of other skiers (this is a very popular destination for back country skiing). The general direction is southeast. You cannot see the real top for a long time, and the slope is very gentle. |  |  |  |  |
Bighorn Sheep
Bighorn Sheep is a species of sheep in North America with large horns. These horns can weigh up to 30 lbs (14 kg), while sheep themselves weigh up to 300 lbs (140 kg). They are considered good indicators of land health because the species is sensitive to many human-induced environmental problems. Ovis canadensis |
External Links
TR of some AustraliansTop Colorado Backcountry Spots
