Windy Peak - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

There's no shortage of things to do at Windy Peak in Park County, Colorado. In the summer, hiking and mountain biking are popular activities, and there are plenty of trails to explore. The area is also popular for camping, and there are several campgrounds nearby. In the winter, Windy Peak is a great place for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, and there are several miles of trails to enjoy.Whether you're looking for a summer adventure or a winter wonderland, Windy Peak is the perfect place to explore.

Windy Peak is a mountain in Park County, Colorado. The peak is located in the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains. The mountain was named for the high winds that often blow across the summit. Windy Peak is one of the many peaks that make up the Mosquito Range. This range is part of the larger Rocky Mountain Range. The Mosquito Range includes fourteen peaks that are all over 14,000 feet tall. Windy Peak is the fifth highest peak in the Mosquito Range. It has an elevation of 14,085 feet. The first recorded ascent of Windy Peak was made in August of 1873 by a group of surveyors. The mountain is a popular destination for hikers and climbers. There are several routes to the summit that range in difficulty from easy to difficult. The most popular route is the East Ridge Route. This route starts at the trailhead near Hoosier Pass and follows the East Ridge to the summit. The East Ridge Route is approximately five miles long and has an elevation gain of 3,700 feet. Windy Peak is a beautiful mountain with spectacular views. When you reach the summit, you can see for miles in every direction. You will likely see other peaks in the Mosquito Range, as well as Longs Peak, which is the tallest mountain in Colorado. From Windy Peak, you can also see South Park, a large valley that is home to many towns and villages. Park County is a beautiful place to visit and Windy Peak is a must-see when you are in the area.

The best time to visit is during the summer months when the weather is warm and dry. 

1.  Winter visitors should be aware that the trail can be icy and dangerous - use caution and come prepared with traction devices and ice axe if necessary.
2. Please respect the wilderness - Leave No Trace principles should be followed to help preserve this beautiful place for future generations. 
3. Dress in layers! The weather can change quickly at high altitudes, so it's important to be prepared.
4. Bring plenty of water- there is no potable water available at the site, so it's important to bring enough for your group. Be sure to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially at high altitudes.
5.  Be aware of your surroundings- keep an eye out for wildlife, including bears, mountain lions, and snakes. Make noise if you're hiking alone to avoid surprising any animals. If you do see an animal, do not approach it and give it space to move away from you.
6. Stay on designated trails- there are many unmarked routes in the park, but staying on the designated trails helps to protect vegetation and prevents soil erosion. 
7. Start early- mornings are usually cooler and you'll have more time to enjoy your hike before the afternoon crowds arrive.

1. Windy Peak is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including black bears, elk, bighorn sheep, and mountain lions. The park is also home to more than 300 species of birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. 
2. Windy Peak is named for its windy conditions - the highest recorded wind speed at the summit was 160 mph! 
3. The peak is more than 14,000 feet above sea level, making it one of the tallest mountains in Colorado.
4. The park covers more than 26,000 acres of land, making it one of the largest parks in Colorado. 
5. The park also features numerous historical sites, including an old stagecoach trail and a ghost town. 
6. There are several trails leading to the summit of Windy Peak, ranging in difficulty from easy to strenuous.
7. Hiking to the summit of Windy Peak is an excellent way to get some exercise and fresh air while enjoying the beauty of nature.
    

In order to maximize your exploration of Windy Peak in Park County, Colorado, it is recommended that you allow at least 3-4 hours. This will give you plenty of time to hike to the summit and take in the stunning views. 

To reach Windy Peak in Park County, Colorado, take Highway 285 south from Denver for about an hour. Then take Highway 126 west for about another hour. The last few miles of the journey are on a dirt road, but any vehicle with high clearance should be able to make the trip. Once you reach the trailhead, the hike to the summit is only about a mile, but it is fairly steep.

While there is no entrance fee to Windy Peak, visitors are encouraged to make a donation to help support the park's upkeep. 

In the summer months, the park is open from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM, while in the winter it is only open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. This is due to the fact that the roads leading to the park are often inaccessible in winter due to heavy snowfall.