| 772 | Deer Mountain Map and Guide |
2013-02-18 |
Many hikers/climbers visiting Rocky Mountain National Park near Estes Park, Colorado have aspirations of climbing Longs Peak at 14,259 feet. The Keyhole Route of Longs is long and the peak is high. Prudent hikers will try to acclimate before their attempt on Longs. The Park is full of trails that don't lead to a high summit, but Deer Mountain has always been a favorite hike for us.
Sitting at 10,013 feet, Deer Mountain is the divide between Beaver Meadows and Fall River. Deer Mountain is not a big mountain, but because it stands alone, isolated from the other peaks, it gives good views of the neighboring giants and also of the town of Estes Park. As we climb Deer Mountain, we enjoy spying on the other peaks in the park that are on our wish list. We can see first hand the route conditions.
For many other hikers, Deer Mountain will be a goal in itself. The three mile (one way) trail climbs about 1200 feet on the ascent and the final 0.20 mile of trail is probably the most demanding of the route. The summit cairn is a welcome sight for all who hike the trail.
A few Deer Mountain notes ...
The mountain is centrally located on the east side of the Park at the junction of Trail Ridge Road (Hwy 36) and Fall River Road (Hwy 34).
Parking is available along Trail Ridge Road near the road junction (Deer Ridge Junction).
There are no facilities at the trailhead. Plan ahead and stop at one of the Visitor's Centers.
There is no water at the trailhead or on the trail.
The trail crosses open slopes with great views.
Several of the viewpoints on the route give you a good reason to take a break.
The views are better than any you will see from a roadside pullout. As you climb Deer Mountain you will earn the right to see the Park from a special perspective.
Enjoy the map and guide and plan a trip to hike Deer Mountain soon.
Happy Deer Mountain trails