El Diente peak
El Diente rises to 14,159 ft in San-Juan-Mountains within the San Juan Mountains range.
With an elevation of approximately 14,159 feet (4,316 meters), it stands as one of the fourteeners in Colorado. Its name translates to "the tooth" in Spanish, which accurately describes its distinctive jagged appearance.
During the winter season, El Diente experiences varying snowpack levels, making it a popular destination for backcountry skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. Snow depths typically range from several feet to over ten feet, offering a wide range of opportunities for winter sports. The mountain's steep slopes and rugged terrain require experienced and well-prepared mountaineers.
El Diente contributes to the runoff of several creeks and rivers in the surrounding area. Among them, the Navajo River and the Dolores River receive water from the mountain's snowmelt and provide valuable resources for the local ecosystems and communities downstream.
As for its history and folklore, El Diente holds a significant place in Native American legends. The Ute tribe believes that the mountain is home to powerful spirits and supernatural beings. These legends add to the mystique surrounding El Diente and further enhance its allure for adventurers seeking a unique and challenging mountaineering experience.
In summary, El Diente is a striking peak in the Rocky Mountains, reaching an elevation of around 14,159 feet. Its challenging slopes and varying winter snowpack attract experienced mountaineers and winter sports enthusiasts. The mountain contributes to the runoff of creeks and rivers such as the Navajo River and the Dolores River, providing important water resources. Its name and fascinating legends add to the allure of El Diente, making it a captivating destination for those seeking a thrilling mountaineering experience.
For trail conditions and access, search Wikipedia or the local land manager's site. Browse other peaks in the San-Juan-Mountains range.
Snowpack near El Diente
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 Columbine Pass | 1 in | → |
| Cascade #2 | 18 in | → |
| Nohrsc Black Mesa | 27 in | → |
| Red Mountain Pass | 1 in | → |
| Park Reservoir | 15 in | → |
| Sharkstooth | 1 in | → |
| Lizard Head Pass | 1 in | → |
| Mesa Lakes | 1 in | → |
| Nohrsc Lone Cone | 2 in | → |
| Sharkstooth | 1 in | → |
| Nohrsc Vallecito | 7 in | → |
| Nohrsc Mesa Lakes | 1 in | → |
Streamflow near El Diente
USGS streamgauges in the basin drained by this peak. Spring snowmelt from the summit feeds these flows.
| Gauge | Streamflow | View |
|---|---|---|
| Mcelmo Creek Above Trail Canyon Near Cortez | 20 cfs | → |
| Lost Canyon Creek Near Dolores | 0 cfs | → |
| Dolores River Below Rico | 161 cfs | → |
| Florida R Bl Flor Farmers Ditch | 13 cfs | → |
| La Plata River At Hesperus | 28 cfs | → |
| Dolores River At Dolores | 351 cfs | → |
| Mud Creek At State Highway 32 | 9 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 El Diente
Ski areas, river runs, fishing spots, campgrounds, parks, reservoirs, and boat launches within driving distance of El Diente.
Ski areas
- Steamboat Ski Resort
- Vail
- Crested Butte Mountain Resort
- Sunlight Mountain Resort
- Durango Mountain Resort
- Sandia Peak Ski Area
River runs
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