Stony Mountain : Climbing, Hiking & Mountaineering : SummitPost

Overview

Stony Mountain is the first mountain you encounter on your left when entering Yankee Boy Basin; the road skirting around the north side of this peak and to the south of Potosi Peak.

This is the view of Stony Mountain on the return from Mt. Sneffels

Although Stony Mountain is the smallest peak accessible from Yankee Boy Basin, it is a formidable peak in its own right. Stony Mountain is well worth the climb for the spectacular views of Yankee Boy Basin and the entire Sneffels Range to the north, and Governor Basin to the south.

Potosi Peak from Stony Mountain's summit ridge

Mt Sneffels from Stony Mountain's summit

Also, because of the easy access, this peak can be summited in a short day. The summit ridge and the final ascent offer an abundance of challenges for most climbers. If your up for a real challenge, you can combine this peak with Mt. Emma and possibly Gilpin Peak.

Getting There

From Ouray:
Drive south out of town on US 550 for about ½ mile. Turn right after the first switchback on to CR361. Follow this dirt road for 4.2 miles to Camp Bird. If you are driving a passenger car, you shouldn’t have any trouble reaching this point. Continue driving as far as you are able; you will be limited by the ground clearance of your vehicle. The road gets progressively rougher after this point as you climb into the basin to ~11,700 feet. You may find it necessary to U-turn and park at one of the turn outs on the south side of the road. If you are driving a high clearance vehicle, you should be able to make it into the basin where you will find ample parking.

Mt. Sneffels towering over Yankee Boy Basin

View from Southeast Couloir

Teakettle Mountain and Potosi Peak

Stony Mountain

Camping and Lodging

Camping is restricted in Yankee Boy Basin, but there is plenty of camping and lodging in the area. Since CR361 is only about a seven mile drive, you have many options to choose from.
Links
Ouray Camping
Ouray Hotels
Ridgway State Park