Shrine Mountain gently rises over the vicinity of Shrine Pass, just west of Interstate 70 as it climbs toward Vail Pass. In stark contrast to the gentle landscape surrounding it, Shrine has one of the most unique summits in Colorado: A jagged crag in an outcrop of the Fountain formation. Surrounded by lush basins brimming with a staggering array of Colorado wildflowers, Shrine Mountain offers impressive views and opportunities to explore Colorado’s high country without much time or commitment.

The area is popular with casual hikers and wildflower enthusiasts, and a nearby seasonal restaurant at the top of Shrine Pass adds to the sometimes crowded conditions. But once off the beaten path, solitude can be easily achieved with minimal effort.

The wildflower display in the area is rivaled only by the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness and the San Juan mountains. For flower lovers, a lingering visit to this stunning area will satisfy even the most ravenous appetite for color and spectacle.

Shrine Mountain has an inconspicuous west summit ridge studded with scrubby willows and pine, but the eastern crag summit is very unique. An outcrop of the Fountain formation, the same strata that makes up the famed Maroon Bells and Red Rocks (see Mount Morrison), invites exploration. Coves, crannies, arches and cracks will lure the explorer. An ascent of the summit rock involves considerable exposure and Class 4 & 5 maneuvering on slick rock.

Although higher, Points 11,931 and 11,977 are south of Shrine Mountain, and are little more than high points on a gentle ridge. UN 11977 point is named Wingle Ridge, and it is the 1322nd highest peak in Colorado. This rolling ridge stroll is worth noting for its outstanding view of the Holy Cross Wilderness to the west, including the famous fourteener itself, rising from behind the rampart of Notch Mountain. The Tenmile Range can be seen to the east, including Crystal, Atlantic, Quandary and Fletcher Peaks, as well as the pointed spire of Pacific Peak.

The area also serves very well to winter enthusiasts, including snowmobiling, cross country skiing and show shoeing. For an outing in any season, Shrine Mountain and the surrounding area is sure to satisfy the need for a quick fix of Colorado’s awesome high country.

Looking north to the Gore Range from the ramparts of Shrine Mountain
Panorama photo by SP member Conelpyat

Getting There

Drive west on Interstate 70 to the Highway 24 exit at Copper Mountain ski area. Do not take the exit, going under the interchange bridge and continue west on Interstate70. Take the next exit, a right turn to an off ramp and bridge over the highway, leading to a heavily used rest stop.

Follow the dirt road past the rest stop due west. This road is not maintained in the winter. In the summer, this wide county road is passable by most passenger cars. Washboards and potholes are the worst obstacles you will encounter.

A big clearing marks the top of Shrine Pass. A large impromptu parking area on the south side of the road will likely be occupied with at least a few cars. On summer days, the area may be full of vehicles. Find a spot and park.

When To Climb

Elk herd on Wingle Ridge after and August snow storm

Photo by SP member chicagotransplant

Shrine Mountain and the nearby area can be visited safely any time of the year. In summer or fall, expect a nice walk through open meadows and occasional pines and a meander to just above timberline.

In spring, expect muddy and soggy conditions and plenty of snow. Snow shoes or skis may be required.

In winter, snow shoes or skis are certainly required, and an ice axe may be helpful though not mandatory. Snow accumulations in the area are considerable and the road is usually closed from the rest stop on Interstate 70, adding round trip distance to your outing.

Camping

This multiuse area sees lots of traffic of all kinds and is not recommended for camping, although camping is certainly a possibility. Pack in plenty of water. The area is generally utilized for day outings and water sources get scarce as the summer progresses. If you choose to camp in the area, get well away from the trail to achieve your desired solitude. Camping possibilities on the west side of the Shrine Mountain ridge would be ideal, but water sources will be scarce. Expect alpine conditions when camping in the area.

The area lends itself very well to winter camping possibilities. Be advised that winter weather in the area can be brutal and high winds are frequent.

White River National Forest

Mountain Conditions

Conditions reported on Vail Pass will be similar to conditions on Shrine Mountain. Do not enter the area in inclement weather, particularly white out or blizzard conditions.

In winter, the ridge lines will likely be scoured or blown free of snow and will present no danger, although cornices are likely to form on Shrine Mountain’s east side. Exercise care if you are on this ridge in winter conditions.

A visit to the crags that make up the east summit is not recommended in winter conditions due to likely avalanche danger on Shrine Mountain’s west summit (east side).

Vail Pass Cam

Vail Ski Area-Two Elk Lodge Cam

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