Ute Mountain - 12 Things to Know Before Visiting

This picturesque spot is perfect for hiking, biking, picnicking, and more. In the summer months, visitors can enjoy fishing in the many lakes and streams located throughout the area. Ute Mountain is also home to a variety of wildlife, making it a great place for birdwatching and wildlife watching. And no visit to Ute Mountain would be complete without exploring the ancient ruins of the Mesa Verde National Park.

Ute Mountain is located in Montezuma County, Colorado. It is the largest mountain in the state and is a popular destination for hikers and climbers. The summit of Ute Mountain is 12,713 feet above sea level. The mountain is part of the La Plata Mountains range and is surrounded by other peaks such as Sleeping Ute Mountain, Hesperus Mountain, and Animas Mountain. The first recorded ascent of Ute Mountain was made by a group of miners in 1869. Since then, the mountain has been climbed frequently, with routes ranging from easy to extremely difficult. Today, Ute Mountain remains a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts from all over the world.

The best time to visit Ute Mountain in Montezuma County, Colorado is from mid-June to early August. During this time, the days are longest and the weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities. However, late August through September is also a good time to visit, as the fall colors are at their peak. 

1. Be prepared for the altitude. The town of Cortez is 7,500 feet above sea level, and the surrounding mountains are even higher. If you're not used to being at high altitudes, you may experience dizziness, headaches, and fatigue. Be sure to drink plenty of water and take it easy for the first few days until your body adjusts.
2. Ute Mountain is located in a remote area, so it's important to be prepared before you go. Make sure you have enough food and water for the trip, and be sure to pack a map and compass in case you get lost.
3. Start early. The hike to the top of Ute Mountain is strenuous, and the trail gets very crowded later in the day. Getting an early start will help you beat the crowds and avoid having to turn back because you ran out of time.
4. Know your limits. Choose a hike that is within your abilities, and don't push yourself too hard. Remember that you're in it for the long haul - there's no need to hurry!

1. The Ute Mountains, with a collective profile commonly known as "The Sleeping Ute", are a dense cluster of peaks approximately 5 by 12 miles in extent and stand in isolation from other mountains.
2. Despite being much lower than Colorado's highest peaks, Ute Mountain is the eighth most topographically prominent peak in the state, due to this isolation.
3. The Ute Mountains were formed by the intrusion of igneous rocks at about 72 million years (Late Cretaceous), concurrent doming, and subsequent erosion.
4. Ute Mountain was named after the Ute tribe of Native Americans, who have lived in the area for centuries. 

The most popular way is to take Highway 160 west from Cortez. This road will take you right to the base of the mountain. Another option is to take Highway 145 north from Cortez. This road will take you through the town of Dolores before reaching Ute Mountain. Finally, you can take Highway 184 east from Cortez. This road will take you through the town of Mancos before reaching Ute Mountain. 

The entrance fee for Ute Mountain is $3 per person or $5 per vehicle. This fee helps to maintain the park and keep it accessible for everyone to enjoy.

Ute Mountain is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.