Overview
At 12,180 feet, Mount Zirkel is the high point in Colorado's Park Range, Routt County, and its namesake wilderness. It also ranks number fourteen among Colorado's most prominent peaks. A decent number of accolades for a mountain in a state which contains over 1,000 higher peaks.
German geologist Ferdinand Zirkel did some work in the area and his name is attached to the mountain and the wilderness that encompasses it. A fitting name for an area with some geologic character. Glacially carved cliffs lead upwards to broad alpine plateaus larger than maps would lead one to believe. Lower down, streams, lakes, and meadows are the rule and make the wilderness a popular destination for hikers, fishermen, and hunters.
In 1997 a severe wind event blew down millions of trees in the area. Forest fires and an epidemic of pine beetles soon followed. Some trails in the area are still affected by the downfall. Standing victims of the fires and beetles abound. The large number of beetles in the trees has also made the area a popular destination for woodpeckers who can be observed working their unique craft.
The normal route for climbing Zirkel is an approach up Gold Creek to Red Dirt Pass and then a hike over the peak's summit plateau followed by a short class two scramble to the top. Other approaches to the plateau are possible from different drainages to the east and west. The north ridge looks like it would go with a bit of tougher climbing right at the top. The east and west faces harbor potential for steep climbs on snow and rock.
Getting There
Slavonia trailhead:
From Steamboat Springs head two miles NW on US 40 to CR 129 (Elk River Road) and turn right at the stoplight. Head about eighteen miles north, past Clark, to Glen Eden, and turn right again at Seedhouse Road ( AKA CR 64 and FR 400) and follow the road and signs ten miles to the trailhead. Seedhouse Road is passable for passenger cars to the trailhead.
Red Tape
Standard wilderness regulations.
When To Climb
Late spring through early fall. This area receives a lot of snow and access could be a problem at other times.
Camping
There are several developed campgrounds along Seedhouse Road for those making the standard approach.
Mountain Conditions
HahnsPeak/Bears Ears Ranger District
925 Weiss Drive
Steamboat Springs, CO 80487-9315
970-879-1870
FAX 970-870-2284
Click here a forecast from the National Weather Service.
Click here for the latest forecast from the Colorado Avalanche Information Center.
External LinksImages
|
Park Range
