Mount Wilson peak
Mount Wilson rises to 14,246 ft in Rocky-Mountains within the San Juan Mountains range.
With an elevation of 14,246 feet (4,342 meters), it stands as one of Colorado's renowned Fourteeners. The mountain is characterized by its distinct pyramid shape and offers breathtaking panoramic views from its summit. Mount Wilson is situated within the Lizard Head Wilderness, attracting mountaineers and outdoor enthusiasts from around the world.
During the winter season, Mount Wilson experiences heavy snowfall, making it a popular destination for snowshoeing and backcountry skiing. The snowpack range can vary each year, but on average, it accumulates between 150 to 200 inches of snow. This abundant snowfall contributes to the mountain's challenging winter ascent, requiring proper mountaineering skills and equipment.
Several creeks and rivers obtain their runoff from Mount Wilson. It is a primary source for the San Miguel River, which flows through the beautiful San Miguel Valley. The mountain's melting snow also feeds into the San Miguel River's tributaries, such as the Dolores River and the Gurley Creek.
As for its name, Mount Wilson was named after Major Richard Wilson, a topographer and army officer who surveyed the area in the mid-1800s. The mountain holds some interesting lore and legends, including tales of hidden gold mines and mysterious disappearances. While these stories add to the mountain's allure, it's essential to approach them with skepticism and prioritize verified information.
In summary, Mount Wilson is an impressive peak in the Rocky Mountains, boasting a prominent elevation and challenging winter conditions. Its snowpack range contributes to a remarkable winter playground for outdoor enthusiasts. As a significant water source, the mountain's runoff feeds into various creeks and rivers. Named after Major Richard Wilson, it encompasses both intriguing legends and a rich mountaineering history.
For trail conditions and access, search Wikipedia or the local land manager's site. Browse other peaks in the Rocky-Mountains range.
Snowpack near Mount Wilson
Snow water equivalent and snowpack depth at SNOTEL stations near the peak. Best proxy for what's currently sitting on the summit.
| SNOTEL station | Snowpack | View |
|---|---|---|
| Nohrsc Molas Lake | 1 in | → |
| Sharkstooth | 1 in | → |
| Park Reservoir | 18 in | → |
| Nohrsc Vallecito | 7 in | → |
| Cascade #2 | 22 in | → |
| Spud Mountain | 1 in | → |
| Nohrsc El Diente Peak | 1 in | → |
| Nohrsc Black Mesa | 5 in | → |
| Nohrsc Overland Res. | 198 in | → |
| Lizard Head Pass | 1 in | → |
| Nohrsc Red Mountain Pass | 1 in | → |
| Nohrsc Columbine Pass | 2 in | → |
Streamflow near Mount Wilson
USGS streamgauges in the basin drained by this peak. Spring snowmelt from the summit feeds these flows.
| Gauge | Streamflow | View |
|---|---|---|
| Dolores River Below Rico | 207 cfs | → |
| Vallecito Creek Near Bayfield | 194 cfs | → |
| Animas River Blw Durango Pump Plant Nr Durango | 936 cfs | → |
| Dolores River At Dolores | 463 cfs | → |
| Animas River Below Silverton | 421 cfs | → |
| Los Pinos River Near Ignacio | 5 cfs | → |
| Animas River Above Tacoma | 762 cfs | → |
Plan around incoming weather
Same NOAA / yr.no feed Snoflo's iOS app uses. Watch the precipitation column -- snow at this elevation typically lags the radar signature by a few hours.
Next 5 days, hour by hour
Temperature line with weather symbols on top, snow + rain accumulation as columns, humidity as a dotted line.
5-day forecast table
Every 3 hours, broken out across temperature, snow, rain, humidity, and wind.
| Time | Condition | Temp (°F) | Snow (in) | Rain (in) | Humidity (%) | Wind (mps) | Wind dir |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Loading detailed forecast… | |||||||
15-day forecast
Daily temperatures, snow, and rain projected over the next two weeks.
What's around Mount Wilson
Ski areas, river runs, fishing spots, campgrounds, parks, reservoirs, and boat launches within driving distance of Mount Wilson.
Ski areas
- Sunrise Park Resort
- Hesperus Ski Area
- Sunlight Mountain Resort
- Crested Butte Mountain Resort
- Aspen Highlands
- Telluride
River runs
- San Miguel River Segment 1
- South Mineral Creek
- Beaver Creek
- Saltado Creek
- Mineral Creek
- Animas River
Get Mount Wilson on your phone.
Save this peak as a favorite and get push alerts when storms move in, fresh snow falls upstream, or NWS issues a weather warning. Free, account optional.
Scan to install Look for this on your home screen