ApproachSee the GETTING THERE SECTION on the MAIN PAGE.
East Ridge Route to Jura Knob ROUND TRIP MILES: 7.75
GAIN: 3,144 feet
With exception of a hunter's use trail that you may encounter, this is a BUSHWHACK route. A GPS and topographical map are highly recommended. TOPO! edit and embellishments by Aaron Johnson
Route DescriptionClimb directly west up the steep and loose slope, staying between 100 and 150 yards south of the stream. An occasional rock band may be encountered. Look for easy passage up these bands to keep the difficulty at Class 2. More difficult and exposed options are available nearby. Bushwhack west through aspens and soon enter dark timber. A use trail for hunters and hikers may be encountered. Follow it, or at a convenient opportunity, cross the creek to the north side. Eventually, staying close to the creek, the use trail will be encountered.
At approximately 11,600 feet, the trail continues north. Depart the trail, resuming your western heading. Break out of the dark timber and ascend open slopes through knee-high willows. This could be a soggy affair in the spring time. Several cliff bands must be climbed. Careful route finding will keep the difficulty at Class 2. Be sure not to wander far from your westward course.
The east end of the ridge will soon be visible. Ascend this bluff (Point 12,569), staying to the left (south) side and contour further west. Jura Knob and the remainder of the east ridge will come into view. Contour and maintain altitude along the south side of the ridge until you reach its broad top and follow it toward Point 12,594. Scramble up and over Point 12,594 over Class 2 rock, bearing slightly right. Climb to this summit, climb atop the red cap rock and continue your stroll along this tundra ridge. You’ll gradually lose 400 feet, but the going is fast, and this stretch is easily regained on your return.
    
Jura Knob from Point 12,594
Digital photo by Aaron Johnson Jura Knob is now in full view and the route is obvious. Follow game trails along the way through this high alpine environment and arc southwest toward the summit of Jura Knob, bypassing some tarns along the way. The final pitch is up typical San Juan flat rock scree, most of which is packed. The summit is a broad, tilted flat slope with a view that will fail to impress only the most dispassionate soul.
   
Return the same route.
ROUND TRIP MILES: 7.75
GAIN: 3,144 feet
Essential GearStandard dayhike gear will do. This area tends to be soggy, so waterproof boots and/or gaiters are recommended. Unless you’re really good with a map, a GPS would be a good idea for the dark timber sections. Do not rely on the trails you may encounter in this area. A 7.5 minute TOPO map is recommended.
In snow conditions, snow shoes or skis are obviously required. The terrain above the highway and in assuming the ridge is steep and could prove difficult in snow conditions. If avalanche conditions are unfavorable, do not proceed with this climb.
Despite all of the gear and technology available, do not proceed with this climb in inclement weather.
Miscellaneous InfoIf you have information about this route that doesn't pertain to any of the other sections, please add it here.
Images
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San Juan Range
