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Off-Road to Glacier Mountain

Dillon, Colorado

5.0/5
based on 3 reviews

Details

Distance

7.4 miles

Elevation Gain

2100 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Chema Domenech

Drive up an easy 4x4 trail to catch incredible views of Summit County and Clear Creek County peaks. Travel back in time to the gold rush era as you off-road by historical mines to the top of Glacier Mountain where you will catch the best sunset in Summit County.

The trail begins just past historical Main Street Montezuma. You will see a sign on your right for St. Johns road. This road is officially marked as 275 on a map. The original road lead to St. Johns but not much of the town remains.

You will cross the Snake River almost immediately after you turn onto St. John’s Rd. About 1,000 feet in, there is a trail on your left that heads to an old titanium mine. The mine is only about 1,000 feet from the turn off so feel free to explore.

About a half mile after the first two switchbacks you will find the Minha Reservoir on your right. It is somewhat hidden behind the trees so you might need to get out of your truck to find it. But it is a cool little lake with a perfect picture opportunity.

About a mile and a half in you will see some homes. At this point you will realize that the people living there have the coolest backyard ever. Please respect their property. On your left, you will also see the remnants of an old Gold Mine.

The next 1.5 miles take you through deep pine forest until you arrive at the next mine about 3 miles in and above tree line. After 3 switch backs and 3.5 miles in there is a fork in the road. Stay left to reach the Peak of Glacier Mountain. You will shortly reach another split, stay left again and about 0.2 miles ahead you will reach the top of Glacier Mountain. Now pull out that picnic and enjoy the amazing views.

There are many trails around this area. However, proceed at your own risk, some of these trails can get very narrow and steep and should only be attempted by experienced drivers. If in doubt turn around! If you are really curious proceed by foot.

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Features

Chillin
Photography
Hiking
Dog Friendly
Forest
Lake
River
Scenic
Wildflowers
Wildlife

Off-Road to Glacier Mountain Reviews

This is a easy to reach off road trail near Keystone that is great for beginners. However, it should only be attempted in high clearance 4x4 vehicles as there are some places where a low clearance car will scrape. You can turn this into a loop by connecting it with Deer Creek, which will take you back to Montezuma, but the connector between the two is a little rough. Did this in a stock 2017 4Runner just for comparison and it was a breeze.

Thanks for this post. I am looking forward to doing this in a few weeks when I am in the area! How rough is the trail? Just bought a 4x4 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk and am curious if it will make it. Thanks!

This is a great trail for novice offroaders. Be aware that it can be closed in early spring or late fall due to snow.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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