Comanche Peak

Overview

Comanche Peak is a peak located in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in New Mexico. This peak lies entirely on Philmont Scout Ranch and is often overlooked due to its much higher and more prominent neighbor; Mount Phillips, which lays almost a mile west of Comanche Peak. Although it lacks the 300' for prominence, Comanche Peak is still recognized as peak by all USGS quads. The actual summit of the peak is very unimpressive. Its a summit cairn with a sign with absolutely no view (if you call dense trees views then it has a view). However, just east of the peak the terrain opens a little and you have incredible views of Philmont Scout Ranch and a seemingly never ending view east. Also, on top of Mount Phillips, your view east isn't that good (it can be good if your willing to look around and try to find an open area with views east). The only good view from Comanche (As I said before, not actually on the summit, but a little lower to the east) looks east. Therefore, these two peaks are great together. However, this peak still is under the shadow of Mount Phillips.

Also, there is a whole lot of quartz on this peak, which is pretty cool. The trail traverses right over the summit (or what Philmont has marked for the summit. There is nothing tricky about this mountain, its very round and provides a nice easy hike while on route to Mount Phillips.

Routes

Although this peak is entirely on Philmont Scout Ranch, it doesn't mean its off limits to non-Philmont hikers. If you are not doing Philmont, you will have to start at Eagles nest, just as the Mount Phillips page said by taking the northwest trail. The east trail comes up out of Cypher's Mine Camp (which is a staffed Philmont Camp)and is entirely on Philmont land.

Getting There

Getting there is the same as Mount Phillips. Most people coming on the east trail to Mount Phillips traverse Comanche Peak anyways. Those coming up the other side from Eagle's Nest would just have to traverse Mount Phillips first.

Red Tape

Only red tape is that its on Philmont Scout Ranch. That means no camping at designated Philmont Camps. For those on Philmont, there is not any red tape. Also, brings lots of water, as there are no permanent water sources towards the summit.

Camping

For those hiking in Philmont, there are three camps fairly close to the summit; Thunder Ridge Camp, Mount Phillips Camp, and Comanche Peak Camp. Obviously, Comanche Peak Camp is closer for those doing Philmont. For those not doing Philmont, there are other camping areas just outside Philmont Land (same as on the Mount Phillips page).

External Links

Philmont Scout Ranch

Misc

If you have any additional pictures/information feel free to add them to this page!

Images

View Comanche Peak Image Gallery - 5 Images