Overview Summit Peak is the highest peak in the remote and beautiful eastern San Juan Mountains of Colorado along the continental divide and is located within the South San Juan Wilderness. It is also 29th on the most prominent list in Colorado. Although the eastern San Juans are not as rugged as some of the other San Juans, they are very isolated and beautiful. If it wasn't for the fact that Summit Peak is the highest peak in Archuleta County, this peak would probably be one of the least climbed peaks in Colorado. Despite this fact, Summit Peak is still seldom climbed and will satisfy any true outdoorsman's craving for a humanless adventure.
To some this wilderness where Summit Peak is located is the wildest Colorado has to offer. The last known grizzly bear was killed in 1979 in this remote wilderness. Some scientists speculate that there could be grizzlies here still today (http://www.coloradowilderness.com/wildpages/sanjuan.html) .
Getting ThereThere are two possible routes to consider:
1. From Antonito, CO drive approximately 22 miles west on highway 17 and turn right on FR 250. Drive approximately 25 miles and then turn left on FR 380. Drive 3 miles and after passing Lake Anella, make a left turn on FR 243. Drive about 2 miles and park at the end of the road.
2. From Pagosa Springs drive north on Colorado 160 approximately 10 miles and turn right on FR 667. Drive approximately 12 miles and park at the end of the road.
Red TapeSummit Peak is located right on the border of the South San Juan Wilderness. Wilderness rules apply.
Wilderness is land set aside as part of wild America, where man can be a visitor. The natural environment has not been disturbed. Travel is restricted to foot or horseback. No mechanized equipment is allowed. No fees or permits are required to enter the South San Juan Wilderness. Tread very lightly please.
When To ClimbLate May to mid-September are the optimal times to climb this peak. Late season or early season snows could cause road closures. Check with the forest service for the latest information on road closures.
Rio Grande National Forest
1803 W. US Hwy 160
Monte Vista, CO 81144
(719)852-5941
Email: dzwight/r2_riogrande@fs.fed.us
Pagosa Ranger District
180 Second St.
PO Box 310
Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
Email: jbridges/r2_sanjuan@fs.fed.us
(970)264-2268
Current fire restrictions website:
Colorado Office of Emergency Management
Information on avalanche conditions:
Colorado Avalanche Information Center website
CampingThere are plenty of places to camp along the way if you so choose.
The Cumbres and Toltec Scenic RailroadJust to the south of Summit Peak runs the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad. This 64 mile early 19th century coal fired steam locomotive train ride crosses the southern San Juan mountains from Antonito, Colorado to Chama, New Mexico. Not only is this the longest operating narrow guage railroad in the United States, but it is the highest, topping out at 10,015 ft. Cumbres Pass.
Crossing the New Mexico/Colorado border 11 times, this train ride takes you through beautiful desert scenery, pristine mountain valleys, a tunnel, a tressel, a high mountain pass, and a spectacular box canyon. Because of its remote location, tourism barely supports this railroad, making this trip possibly a once in a lifetime experience. Ride it while you still can!!
Official Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad Web Page
Friends of the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad Web Page
Newmexico.org Cumbres and Toltec Information and Pictures
More Information on the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad
Mountain Conditions
External Links Images
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San Juan Range
