Mount Chiquita is one of the most easily accesible mountains in the Mummy Range, in Rocky Mountain National Park. From trailhead to the summit, it doesn't take much more than an hour for the average, in shape, hiker. This mountain is climbed 99% of the time from the Chapin Pass trailhead. It is probably the easiest 13er to climb in the entire state, and it often climbed, along with Mt. Chapin (12,454 feet), and
Ypsilon Mountain , as the second summit in this popular trio.
This is a simple tundra walk to the wonderful summit, nothing more, yet so much more at the same time. It is in a breathtaking setting with wonderful views towards the Estes Valley, and of other peaks in the Park, as well as the Madicine Bow Range of Wyoming.
I debated even including this mountain because of it's simplicity. But it is such a wonderful mountain and summit, in the heart of a beautiful range, that I figured I would share.....
This is not a summit that one would choose for solitude, but one to choose for a great excuse to get into a beautiful area of Colorado's high country, easily. Which is why I have returned and will return time and time again.
Round Trip: 4.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 2,429 feet
Getting There
To get to the Chapin Pass Trailhead, you can enter RMNP from the Fall River Entrance, just North of Estes Park on Hwy 34. On the Western end of Horseshoe Park, take a right towards Old Fall River Rd. This is a one way dirt road that ultimately connects with Trail Ridge Road at the Alpine Visitor Center.
At around mile marker 6, you will come to the Chapin Pass Trailhead (clearly marked). Follow the signs to Mount Chiquita and "All Summits." Follow the well traveled trail, past Mount Chapin, up the long, broad, rise to the summit.
Note that Old Fall River Rd is only open from July 4th through the first of October, weather permitting.
Maps
Red Tape
The only permit required is a pass to get into the National Park. You can buy a week pass for $15, or an annual pass for $30.
Call the Backcountry Office, 970-586-1242, for details on camping.
Fees for admission.
Basic Rules/Regulations
When To Climb
This mountain is most often climbed during the summer months, July through September, when Old Fall River Road is open.
When the road is closed, it would make the approach MUCH, MUCH longer, at least six miles one way. You could follow the Southeast ridge to the summit if you just "had" to summit this mountain in the Winter, but, personally, I'd wait.
Camping
To be honest, I do not think there is any camping in and around the Chapin Pass Trail System. You can camp near Lawn Lake, but this would make an interesting approach to the Chiquita (over Fairchild and up the Northeast ridge of Ypsilon, and over to Chiquita).
Call 970-586-1242 for further details.
Mountain Conditions
To get the most accurate conditions on this mountain, it would be best to call Rocky Mountain National Park directly. 970-586-1206.
External Links
Images
Rocky Mountain National Park
