* WHAT...Heavy snow and blowing snow expected. Total snow accumulations between 7 and 14 inches. Winds gusting as high as 55 mph. * WHERE...Rocky Mountain National Park and the Medicine Bow Range, and The Mountains of Summit County, the Mosquito Range, and the Indian Peaks. * WHEN...From 11 PM Friday to 11 PM MST Saturday. * IMPACTS...Travel could be very difficult and road closures are possible.
With an elevation of 13,911 feet (4,242 meters), it stands as one of the highest peaks in Colorado, offering breathtaking views to mountaineers and hikers alike. This majestic mountain is part of the Front Range, situated near its more famous neighbor, Longs Peak.
During the winter season, Mount Meeker experiences a significant snowpack range, making it a popular destination for winter mountaineering and skiing enthusiasts. The snowpack can reach depths of several feet, creating a challenging and thrilling environment for adventure seekers. Additionally, the mountain's proximity to several creeks and rivers, such as the St. Vrain Creek and the South Platte River, results in a substantial amount of runoff during the spring and summer months, contributing to the region's rich water resources.
The name "Mount Meeker" honors Nathan Meeker, an early settler and agricultural reformer who played a significant role in the development of northern Colorado. Meeker is famous for his efforts to establish a utopian community called the Union Colony in present-day Greeley. Interestingly, Mount Meeker is also associated with legends and lore. Native American tribes in the area believe that the mountain is haunted by a giant grizzly bear spirit, which acts as a guardian of the land. These legends add an element of mystique to the already awe-inspiring beauty of Mount Meeker.
Sources:
- Colorado State University. (n.d.). Longs Peak. Retrieved from https://www.nps.gov/romo/learn/nature/longs-peak.htm
- SummitPost. (n.d.). Mount Meeker. Retrieved from https://www.summitpost.org/mount-meeker/150387