Iron Mountain

Cirque at the head of the valley

Iron Mountain climbs a steep mining road with fine views of the surrounding mountains along with Wilson Peak and the Lizard Head Wilderness. Aspen groves, waterfalls and an old mine add interest to the hike.
See Trail Detail/Full Description

• Distance: 8.0 miles (round trip) to Mtn. Flower Mine
  
• Elevation: 9,090-ft. at Trailhead
  10,857-ft. at Mtn. Flower Mine
  
• Elevation Gain: 1,767-ft. to Mtn. Flower Mine
  
• Difficulty: moderate-strenuous
• More Hikes in:
  Telluride / Southwest Colorado

Why Hike Iron Mountain

The scenic Iron Mountain trail climbs an old mining road along the north side of the East Fork of Deep Creek Valley, known locally as Snodgrass Canyon. Ruffner Mountain (13,003-ft.) and Mears Peak (13,496-ft.) tower above the east side of the valley while Iron Mountain (12,747-ft.) and Campbell Peak (13,213-ft.) define the southern wall. At the head of the valley is a rugged cirque of 13,000-ft. peaks. Fine views extend southwest to Wilson Peak and the Lizard Head Wilderness.

The Iron Mountain trail up Snodgrass Canyon is reach after a short stint along the Deep Creek and Whipple Mountain trails. From the foot of the canyon the stiff ascent to the Flower Mountain Mine travels through nice aspen groves and passes high above waterfalls along the creek. After two miles views open to the valley’s high peaks. The mine is a good turnaround point for most hikers although it is possible to explore further up the valley.

The hike is a good option if the weather is threatening the high country or for hikers trying to acclimate. This lightly used trail sees few hikers so you are likely to have the valley to yourself.

Elevation Profile

Trail Resources

Trail Detail/Full Description / Trail Photo Gallery / Trail Map

Basecamp(s) Information:
Telluride

Region Information:
Southwest Colorado

Other Hiking Regions in:
Colorado