The standard route for climbing Snowmass Mountain has the distinction of being the only 14er that is usually summited as a snow climb. The large snowfield on the east slopes holds snow late into the summer, providing an easy to climb avenue to the summit. Beware of the rocky summit ridge, which has plenty of class 3 scrambling waiting for you after your ascent up the snow. Prepare for your climb of this unique Colorado fourteener with this free Snowmass Mountain route guide below.
New to 14ers? Get ready with my beginner’s guide for a safe first ascent.
Climbing Snowmass Mountain: Fast Facts
- Standard Route: East Slopes
- Trailhead: Snowmass Creek
- Elevation Gain: 5,800 feet
- Round-Trip Distance: 22 Miles
- Difficulty Level: Class 3 Scramble
- Range: Elk Mountains
14ers Are Dangerous: Safety is Your Responsibility
These awe-inspiring peaks can be unpredictable and dangerous. Help is often hours or days away: your safety is primarily your responsibility. Carefully prepare for your trek, understand your limits, be aware of the risks, and equip yourself with the necessary skills and gear.
We’ve compiled a comprehensive Mountain Safety Guide – but remember, it’s only as effective as its real-world application. Always prioritize your safety over summiting; the mountain isn’t going anywhere. Climb smart, be prepared, and respect the grandeur of nature.
Climbing Snowmass Mountain - Northeast Ridge Route
Due to the extremely long approach, nearly all parties climbing Snowmass Mountain do so over two days, with an overnight at Snowmass Lake.
The best route description for climbing Snowmass Mountain is available on 14ers.com. With maps, photos, and a detailed write-up on the climb, it’s an invaluable resource as you train for your ascent.
You should bring a good topographical map of the entire Snowmass Mountain route with you while climbing Snowmass Mountain. I recommend downloading this map on your phone or another electronic system, and printing out a backup paper copy in case anything should go wrong.
The weather along the Snowmass Mountain route is unpredictable. You should check the weather forecast multiple times, from multiple sources, before climbing Snowmass Mountain. Be sure to check for temperature, precipitation and wind info, along with major storm systems that could be a hazard.
Climbing Snowmass Mountain is an inherently high-risk activity – do so at your own risk, and use the following best practices to help keep yourself safe. Good Luck!
- Research your route and bring a compass & topographic map.
- Check the weather forecast and stay home during inclement weather.
- Bring the Ten Essentials and the knowledge/skill to use them.
- Leave your plans with someone back home along with a detailed itinerary.
- Start early, and end early: Be back at tree line by noon to avoid lightning.
- Bring a buddy on your first ascent, preferably someone experienced.
NEW TO 14ERS? CHECK OUT MY BEGINNERS GUIDE FOR A SAFE FIRST SUMMIT!
Snowmass Mountain is named and known for the large snowfield on its lower slopes. It’s got one of the longest approaches of any fourteeners, clocking in at nearly 22 miles. You’ll need technical gear to climb this peak, including an ice axe and crampons, unless you wait until the snow melts (which is not recommended).
Climbing Snowmass Mountain and other of Colorado’s high peaks are inherently high-risk, dangerous activities. There is a significant risk of injury or death, even with proper planning and experience. Those using my guide accept all risks associated with climbing 14ers and do not hold this website or any information they obtain from it liable for any accidents or injuries that occur while engaging in these activities on Colorado’s high peaks. It is each hiker or climber’s responsibility to research their route carefully, bring the ten essentials, and practice other safe practices, though even these precautions do not eliminate risk and danger. Visit these summits at your own rosk.
