Hagar Mountain is a low 13er on the Continental Divide, just north of the Eisenhower Tunnel and Loveland Ski area. 13,195 feet high, Hagar is located in a beautiful part of the Arapaho National Forest that is designated for general use. Although the area does not enjoy wilderness protection, it offers many wilderness characteristics. Ironically close to civilization, Hagar sees very little traffic and solitude is easily gained. Nearby mountains such as the Citadel and Pettingell Peak are visited more frequently.

The two routes suggested on this page are moderate Class 3 climbing challenges, but can become more difficult with any number of variations. The west side of the summit block features sheer cliff faces that could offer short technical climbs of varying difficulty, and may be a good place to learn and practice such skills. Even though traffic in the area is light, it is still subject to rapid erosion factors. Please exercise care and tread lightly when visiting the area and any peaks you may climb.

DRY GULCH
A nice hike through likely soggy stretches on a scant trail that contours to timberline, around the Citadel's south ridge for a full assault on Hagar's southeast slopes. A Class 3 rock scramble is engaged at the top.

SOUTH RIDGE VIA THE CONTINENTAL DIVIDE
A hike north from the Eisenhower Tunnel leads to a steep tundra climb, a stroll along the top of the Divide to Hagar's south ridge, where fun Class 2 and 3 climbing await that rare, intrepid climber. Due to security concerns at the tunnel complex, consider this route off limits at this time.

Getting There

Take Interstate 70 west from Denver. The trailhead is unofficial, unmarked and accessed off of Interstate 70 at the Loveland Pass exit, less than a mile east of Eisenhower Tunnel, or two miles west of the Herman Gulch exit. A dirt road north of the exit and highway runs eastward to a gate. Park your vehicle here and proceed on foot past the gate. See the route description "East Slopes via Dry Gulch" in the upper left hand corner of this page.

For the South Ridge route, proceed through the Eisenhower Tunnel. See the South Ridge route description in the upper left hand corner of this page.

When To Climb

Early starts are recommended during the summer for beating the weather.

Optimal dry conditions will be enjoyed July through September, when standard hiking gear will suffice.

Healthy amounts of snow will be encountered in June. Do not attempt in snow without an ice axe. Snow shoes or skis would be recommended for the approaches.

Dry Gulch and the unnamed basin north f the Eisenhower Tunnel see little activity in the winter. Avalanche danger is considerable during normal and heavy winters, particularly from Mount Bethel. Drift fences placed high on Bethel's steep slopes are a testament to the danger that exists here. Experience and appropriate gear is recommended for early or late winter visits.

Red Tape

This is an unprotected, general use area of the Arapaho National Forest. No fees or permits are required. Dogs must be kept on a leash. Dry Gulch is not marked and the status is somewhat unofficial. No signs barring access have been posted. The gate provides access to a storage yard, which remains unattended, neglected and out of view from the highway.

Camping

Good camping opportunities in Dry Gulch can be found higher up in the drainage in an alpine setting. Camping in the trees may be tricky, since this is a soggy area, but some looking around might yield a great secret spot. Since the area is close to Denver, it doesn't get the camping traffic more popular spots do, such as Herman Gulch, to the north. Solitude is a near certainty!

Camping north of the Eisenhower Tunnel on the South Ridge route is not recommended.

Mountain Conditions

FOREST SERVICE REGIONAL OFFICE INFORMATION
740 Simms Lakewood, Colorado
Office Hours: 7:30-4:30
Information: 303-275-5350
Avalanche Recording: 303-275-5364

ARAPAHO NATIONAL FOREST
Phone: 303-275-5610

Loveland Pass Area Forecast

GOES Western US Satellite Image

COLORADO STATE PATROL ROAD CONDITIONS STATEWIDE
303-639-1111

For an idea of weather conditions, 9News has a webcam set up near the Eisenhower tunnel, just a mile or so from Hagar Mountain.

Hagar Mountain is in a remote location and any acquired information should not be considered specific to the mountain, and may not be accurate due to changing conditions on the mountain.

Avalanche Record

Hagar Mountain resides in an area notorious for avalanche activity, even in nominal conditions. Safe procedures, knowledge and awareness cannot be stressed enough! Better yet, avoid this dangerous area during the winter. Below is a record of avalanche incidents that have occurred since this page was constructed. Please be careful out there!

February 17, 2003
An experienced climber triggered an avalanche while descending the Citadel. Unable to locate him, his partner went for help. Searchers retrieved the body from under five feet of snow the following day. Use your informed judgement, and consult with local authorities before proceeding!

Februrary 15, 2004
An avalanche swept two of five skiers 1300 vertical feet, burying two of them. One woman was able to dig herself out of the snow. Rescuers were able to revive the other buried skier. He was airlifted to Saint Anthony Central Hospital in Denver. A spokesman from Clear Creek County Sheriff, says rescuers credit the woman with saving his life, and calling her a hero. All five skiers were wearing avalanche beacons, were adequately prepared and experienced.

Colorado Avalanche Accidents & Conditions.

Images



[ View Gallery - 46 More Images ]