West Pearl Mountain is the 381st highest mountain in Colorado. It is located about 6 miles southwest of Ashcroft in Central Colorado. West Pearl Mountain is less than two miles west of Pearl Pass. Pearl Pass is one of the higher jeep road passes in Colorado and the highest in the Elk Range. This road was constructed over 100 years ago to deliver mining products to and from Crested Butte and Aspen. Today it is a popular destination for mountain biking, skiing and hiking.

West Pearl Mountain's Northeast Face

During the summer months and early fall, West Pearl Mountain is usually accessed from the Ashcroft Trailhead and involves 12 miles and 3364 vertical feet of elevation gain.

From Thanksgiving to the end of May, West Pearl Mountain is usually accessed from Ashcroft with a stay at Tagert & Green Wilson Huts. From Tagert & Green Wilson Huts, West Pearl Mountain is about 1 miles and 2062 vertical feet away. Alternatively, West Pearl Mountain can be approached from Crested Butte with a stay at Friends Hut.

West Pearl Mountain's north face offers an excellent line for skiing and snowboarding. This is an advanced glisse descent with a slope angle of about 40 degrees.

Riding West Pearl Mountain

Getting There

From Pearl Basin:

Drive Highway 82 east from Glenwood Springs or west from Aspen. About 1 mile west of Aspen, at a roundabout, take Castle Creek Road south 11 miles to Ashcroft. This is the winter/early spring road closure. In late spring/summer this road can be followed an additional two miles to its intersection with the Pearl Pass Road.
Roundtrip Distance From Ashcroft: 12 miles
Elevation Gain: 3,364 feet
Recommended Climbing Season: Any

Red Tape

No permits required for climbing, hiking or skiing in Maroon Bells/Snowmass Wilderness area.

Mountain Conditions

7 Day Forecast for Aspen, CO

Colorado Avalanche Information Center (CAIC)

Roaring Fork Avalanche Center

Camping

Camping is available along Castle Creek Road. You are only allowed to camp in designated sites. Camping is free. In addition, various huts are in the immediate area.

External Links

huts.org

Guide Book

Dawson's Guide to Colorado Backcountry Skiing, Volume 1

Images