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A classic, easy-to-moderate road to an old fire tower above treeline, peak can be seen from Denver.


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Map Key

2.2

Miles

3.5

KM

Out and Back

11,465' 3,495 m

High

10,895' 3,321 m

Low

570' 174 m

Up

569' 173 m

Down

10%

Avg Grade (6°)

27%

Max Grade (15°)

Dogs Off-leash

Features Fall Colors · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Family Friendly This is an easy and short outing. The fire tower at top is fun for kids, and there are great views and big sense of accomplishment of at the summit.

Overview

Beginning at the first major switchback, this hike is a great route that combines easy to navigate (though strenuous) terrain with a manageable distance to create an excellent outing with big time rewards at the end.

Need to Know

Formerly Squaw Mountain

Description

This route will lead you up a fire road, which starts near the Forest Service outdoor shooting range. Due to the proximity of the range, you'll likely hear shots fired at the beginning of this outing.

Follow the road up to the antennas and fire tower. Though you'll be navigating a road, this journey can still pack a punch. The grades are moderate and consistent from the parking area to the summit. There are amazing views of the Mt Blue Sky area and the Indian peaks once you've reached the top.

For the second year (as of 2016) the Forest Service appears to be renting the fire tower for overnight stays, if you'd like to extend your stay.

Flora & Fauna

Wildflowers are abundant at various times, and mushrooms can be found in the fall. This can be Nordic skied and snowshoed in the winter.

Contacts

Shared By:

Rick Blair

Trail Ratings

  4.2 from 26 votes

#661

Overall
  4.2 from 26 votes
5 Star
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4 Star
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3 Star
19%
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1 Star
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Recommended Route Rankings

#130

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#661

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Photos

Sunrise past the radio towers
Jun 10, 2019 near Idaho S…, CO
Picnic table behind the lookout tower. Mt. Evans on the horizon.
Jun 10, 2019 near Idaho S…, CO
Squaw Mountain summit offers a great view of Evans, with Chief Mountain to the west.
Feb 17, 2017 near Idaho S…, CO
Fire lookout from below
Jun 10, 2019 near Idaho S…, CO
Traveling up to Squaw Mountain can be beautiful at any time of the year.
Mar 30, 2017 near Idaho S…, CO
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