Overview
"N 1" and Snowdon Peak
This un-named Twelver is alternately unofficially known also as “N 1” or “North Snowdon,” a pleasant smaller companion peak to Snowdon Peak (13077 ft). The old mining town of Silverton, Colorado can be viewed from the summit. This mountain affords the visitors amazing views of the Grenadier Range to the east and the Needles Range to the southeast. “N 1” itself anchors the northernmost end of the the West Needle Range). Mellow in character compared to other mountains in this neighborhood, the summit of “N 1” can be reached with no greater challenge than a Class 2 tundra hop / boulder scamper.
Colorado Rank: “N 1” is a soft ranked peak, which basically means there is no confirmed 300-ft variance between its summit and the lowest point of the saddle with its next highest neighbor.
Prominence: 288 feet
USGS Quad: Snowdon Peak
Planning Map: Trails Illustrated #140 Weminuche Wilerness
Rank & Prominence: Lists of John
Kiefer making his way up the gully between Snowdon Peak and "N 1" | 9 Nov 2013
Route
This route map outlines two primary approach options to the summit of "N 1"
I provide here a high-level overview of route options to reach the summit of “N 1.” I encourage other members to submit more detailed route pages and/or trip reports outlining route details.
From Andrews Lake
•Roundtrip Distance: 6 miles
•Elevation Gain: 1900 feet
•YDS: 2
•This would be considered the standard / more heavily traveled route
From Molas Pass / Molas Lake
•Roundtrip Distance: 9-11 miles depending on parking
•Elevation Gain: Approximately 3000
•YDS: Unknown
•Involves a crossing of Molas Creek
In the upper gully
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Mad climber scientist
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Almost to the top
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Kiefer on summit
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Red Tape
This pano gives a small taste of the scenery from the summit of "N 1"
Grenadier Views Needle Mountains There are no use or parking fees to access this area and permits are not required for day use. “N 1” resides within the Weminuche Wilderness so motorized and mechanized vehicles are prohibited and dogs must be leashed.
Please practice Leave No Trace principals:
1. Plan Ahead and Prepare
2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
3. Dispose of Waste Properly
4. Leave What You Find
5. Minimize Campfire Impacts
6. Respect Wildlife
Weather and Seasons
Autumn sunset in the San Juan Mountains
Camping and Lodging
East face of "N 1" "N 1" from the south Snowdon Peak Views from the top
Established National Forest Campgrounds
The
South Mineral Campground is about 6 miles from Silverton. The campground has 26 sites, available on a first-come, first-served basis. At 9,800 feet elevation, even summer nights will be chilly. To get there, drive two miles west of Silverton to Forest Road 585. Follow FR 585 west along the creek for four miles to the campground entrance. The facilities provide picnic tables, composting vault toilets, fire grates, trash disposal and potable water.
San Juan National Forest campground map
Commercial Campgrounds
Silverton hosts at least three commercial campgrounds offering services such as RV hookup, snacks and showers. These include Silverton Lakes Camper Park, Silver Summit RV Park and Red Mountain RV Park. Additional RV parks can be found by visiting the
Silverton Magazine online lodging guide.
Cabins, Cottages, Hotels and Bed & Breakfasts
The lodging in and around Silverton could be described as “limited” and “eclectic”. Many are family owned and operated and tend toward the friendly and cozy, versus the sophisticated or luxurious. The
Silverton Magazine provides a good online lodging guide.
External Links
Feel free to notify me of any external trip reports or other useful information pertinent to this peak to add here.
The sun setting in the San Juans during our outhike from "N 1" | 9 Nov 2013