Mount Sneffels - South Slopes (Class 3)


Details
Let’s Hike Mt. Sneffels – South Slopes Route!
Mount Sneffels is known for it's beautiful views - featuring dramatic spires, rugged peaks, and the columnar remains of old volcanoes.
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🗓 Date: Saturday, August 16
⏰ Meet Time: 4:30 AM
I’ll wait up to 15 minutes past 4:30 AM. After that, we’ll head out.
If you’re running late or have any questions, feel free to text me directly (often easier than messaging through Meetup): 312-669-4795
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🥾 Route: South Slopes (Standard Route):
Class: Easy Class 3 – There will be some scrambling involved, and expect some loose scree on the descent.
Trailhead: Yankee Boy Basin TH
Click on above links to access 14ers.com info
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🚗 Getting to the Trailhead:
There are 2 possible parking options depending on whether anyone has a 4WD vehicle. Unfortunately, I only have 2WD, but I’m happy to go with either option:
- Governor Basin Junction – 2WD accessible.
- Lower Trailhead with outhouse – Requires 4WD to reach.
Click here for more info on the route and parking
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📏 Hike Details:
- Distance:
• 7.75 miles roundtrip from the 2WD parking area
• 6 miles roundtrip from the 4WD TH - Elevation Gain:
• 3,400 ft from the 2WD lot
• 2,900 ft from the 4WD TH
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🌤 Weather: I will be checking the weather on NOAA, Mountain Forcast, and Open Snow. If there are predicted thunderstorms in the morning I will reschedule the hike.
🏕 Camping Option:
If anyone is interested in camping the night before, let me know! I have some info and would be happy to share. Message me on Meetup or text me directly: 312-669-4795
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🗺 Trail Maps & Navigation:
Highly recommend downloading the route photos and GPX file from 14ers.com. I’ll have them saved on my phone, so no worries if you don’t—just a good backup!
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👋 About Me:
I’ve completed 23 of Colorado’s 14ers and plan to finish the full list over the next few years. I’m flexible with pace, as long as we move steadily enough to avoid the risk of summiting too late in the day (afternoon thunderstorms are unpredictable in the summer!).
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Let me know if you have questions—looking forward to a beautiful day on the mountain!

Mount Sneffels - South Slopes (Class 3)