Mount Sherman - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

Mount Sherman is one of the tallest peaks in the Rocky Mountains, and it is a popular destination for hikers and climbers. There are several trails that lead to the summit, and the views from the top are stunning. In addition to hiking, mountaineering, and rock climbing, there are also opportunities for fishing, camping, and backpacking in the Park County area. The scenery is truly breathtaking, and the experience of being in such a remote and beautiful place is unforgettable.Wildlife is also abundant in the area, and many hikers report seeing deer, elk, and other animals during their hike.

Mount Sherman is a fourteener--a mountain peak that rises to at least 14,000 feet--located in Park County, Colorado. The mountain was named after General William Tecumseh Sherman, an American Civil War general. Mount Sherman is one of the easiest fourteeners to climb, and as a result, it is a popular destination for hiking and mountaineering. The summit of Mount Sherman offers panoramic views of the surrounding area, including the nearby city of Denver. Despite its popularity, Mount Sherman remains a wild and rugged place, providing a unique opportunity to experience the majesty of the Rocky Mountains.

The peak is rarely climbed today, largely because it provides little technical challenge and has no view from its summit. The summit can be reached from four different trailheads, all of which are located on four-wheel-drive roads. The peak is more commonly climbed as a winter ascent, when the 4x4 roads are closed to vehicles and the route to the summit is longer but much more scenic.

The best time to visit Mount Sherman is in the summertime when the weather is warm and the wildflowers are in bloom.

1.  Make sure you have the proper gear. Depending on the time of year, you'll need sturdy hiking boots, clothing that can layer, and rain gear.
2. Be aware of your surroundings. This includes both the natural environment and the wildlife. 
3.  Leave your pets at home. Dogs, in particular, can disturb wildlife and damage vegetation.
4. Be prepared for changing weather conditions . Mount Sherman is known for its sudden snowstorms , even in summer.
5. Do your research - take some time to read up on Mount Sherman before you go. This will help you to be prepared for the hike and know what to expect. 
6.  Bring snacks - even if you're not planning on hiking all the way to the top of Mount Sherman, it's always a good idea to bring snacks with you for energy. A granola bar or some fruit would be perfect! 
    

1. Mount Sherman is one of the easiest fourteeners to climb in Colorado, with a trail that leads all the way to the summit.
2.  The mountain is part of the Mosquito Range, a sub-range of the Rocky Mountains.
3. The east face of Mount Sherman features a large snowfield known as Bandy Gulch.
4. There are several small lakes located near the summit of Mount Sherman, including Sherwitzke Lake and Upper Cottonwood Lake.
5. The standard route to the summit follows a four-wheel drive road to within a half-mile of the summit. From there, it is an easy hike to the top.
6. The soil on Mount Sherman is very thin and rocky, making it difficult for plants to grow. Nevertheless, a few species of wildflowers can be found blooming on the mountain slopes each summer.
    

It is possible to summit Mount Sherman in a single day, most hikers prefer to spend two or three days exploring the area. This allows ample time to enjoy the stunning views and to take advantage of the many camping opportunities. 

To reach Mount Sherman, Park County, Colorado, one must travel west on U.S. Highway 285 from Denver. The turnoff for the 4x4 road that leads to the base of the mountain is located about 30 miles from the town of Fairplay. From there, it is a steep and rugged 7-mile drive to the trailhead.

In order to help offset the costs of maintaining the trails and other facilities at Mount Sherman, the Park County government charges an entrance fee of $5 per vehicle. The fee is valid for one day, and covers all passengers in the vehicle. Annual passes are also available for $30. 

 Operating hours for the park vary depending on the time of year, but generally speaking, the park is open from dawn until dusk. For specific operating hours and more information about Mount Sherman, please visit the park's website.