Challenger Point peak
Challenger Point rises to 14,080 ft in Sangre-De-Cristo-Range within the Sangre De Cristo Range range.
With an elevation of approximately 14,081 feet, it is a popular destination for mountaineers seeking a challenging expedition. The mountain is known for its rugged and steep terrain, providing a thrilling experience for climbers.
During the winter season, Challenger Point experiences varying snowpack levels. Snow accumulation on the mountain can range from moderate to heavy, creating ideal conditions for winter sports enthusiasts. The surrounding region offers opportunities for snowshoeing, skiing, and snowboarding.
Additionally, Challenger Point contributes to the water sources in the area as it serves as a source of runoff for several creeks and rivers. These waterways benefit from the melting snow during the spring and summer months, providing a vital water supply for surrounding ecosystems.
The name "Challenger" was given to the peak in 1911 by the Hayden Survey, in honor of the tragic loss of the crew of the space shuttle Challenger in 1986. The mountain has an interesting lore surrounding it, with tales of early explorers and their encounters with challenging weather conditions and treacherous terrain. It is advisable for mountaineers to thoroughly prepare and possess advanced climbing skills before attempting to summit Challenger Point due to its technical nature.
For trail conditions and access, search Wikipedia or the local land manager's site. Browse other peaks in the Sangre-De-Cristo-Range range.
Snowpack near Challenger Point
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 Trinchera | 1 in | → |
| Aspen Springs Amrad | 1 in | → |
| Echo Lake | 6 in | → |
| Fool Creek | 4 in | → |
| Nohrsc North Costilla | 4 in | → |
| Nohrsc Grizzly Peak | 2 in | → |
| Nohrsc Echo Lake | 6 in | → |
| Berthoud Summit | 6 in | → |
| Fremont Pass | 20 in | → |
| Nohrsc Fool Creek | 4 in | → |
| Golden 12.5 Nw, Co | 1 in | → |
| Ute Creek | 1 in | → |
Streamflow near Challenger Point
USGS streamgauges in the basin drained by this peak. Spring snowmelt from the summit feeds these flows.
| Gauge | Streamflow | View |
|---|---|---|
| La Jara Creek At Gallegos Ranch | 4 cfs | → |
| Rio Grande At Alamosa | 19 cfs | → |
| Culebra Creek At San Luis | 17 cfs | → |
| La Garita Creek Near La Garita | 4 cfs | → |
| Cottonwood Creek Near Crestone | 4 cfs | → |
| San Antonio River At Mouth | 53 cfs | → |
| Rio Grande Near Monte Vista | 495 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 Challenger Point
Ski areas, river runs, fishing spots, campgrounds, parks, reservoirs, and boat launches within driving distance of Challenger Point.
Ski areas
- Ski Apache
- Loveland
- Crested Butte Mountain Resort
- Sipapu Ski Area
- Snowy Range
- Cuchara Mountain Resort
River runs
- Headwaters To The Mountain Front
- Eastern Boundary Of Park To Western Park Boundary
- Mountain Front To Western Park Boundary
- Headwaters To Confluence With Sand Creek
- Headwaters At Medano Lake To Ends On The Sand Sheet Past The Southern End Of The Dunes
- Headwaters To Confluence With Medano Creek
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