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    Notch Mountain Hike

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Hard
    Duration
    This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
    5-7h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    15.4 km
    Elevation
    This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
    871 m
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
    Be the first to add a review!
    Directions to Trailhead

    The Notch Mountain Hike is a taxing but rewarding adventure in the Sawatch Mountain Range. The Colorado 13er is located just to the east of the famous Mount of the Holy Cross—rewarding conquerors with an unparalleled view of the neighboring peaks’ snow-field cross. Reserved for intrepid spirits, this trek will surely warrant a pat on the back.

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    Route Description for Notch Mountain Hike

    The Notch Mountain Hike is a technical adventure up to the summit of the dramatic peak. Revealing some of the best sights of the neighboring peaks, the effort required is rationalized by the breathtaking scenery. Traveling to extreme elevations It is important to be acclimated to the altitude and well prepared. Try to summit before noon to mitigate the chances of getting caught in an afternoon storm so common to the range, and wear layers! Layers are great insurance against varying conditions! Additionally, microspikes and trekking poles are recommended, especially in the fall and winter months!

    *Though dogs are permitted, the steep, rocky, technical terrain may prove difficult for your pup.

    Embark on your journey up the Notch Mountain Trail from the trailhead at the end of Notch Mountain Road. From here, head south on the Fall Creek Trail, which will guide hikers along a forested ridge. Eventually, you will confront a junction, here, veer right and you will be diverted onto the Notch Mountain Trail. This segment of the hike is incredibly steep and technical, so take your time. Begin climbing up the switchbacks and the terrain will quickly become increasingly exposed. Now trekking through the alpine tundra, you will have to carefully navigate the talus field and seemingly never-ending set of switchbacks.

    Eventually, after what seems like a thousand switchbacks later, you will summit the ridge and 360-degree mountain views will encompass you. Notice the quaint cabin atop the ridge and revel in the up close and personal view of Mount of the Holy Cross. Though this is not the true summit, the saddle delivers epic alpine views for as far as the eye can see. After rehydrating and resting, retrace your footing along the path all the way back to the trailhead.

    Getting to the Notch Mountain Hike Trailhead

    The Notch Mountain Hike is accessed via the Fall Creek Trailhead at the end of Notch Mountain Road.

    Route Information

    • Backcountry Campground

      Dispersed Backcountry CampingDispersed Backcountry Camping

    • When to do

      June-October

    • Pets allowed

      Yes - On Leash

    • Family friendly

      No

    • Route Signage

      Average

    • Crowd Levels

      Low

    • Route Type

      Out and back

    Notch Mountain Hike Elevation Graph

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    Notch Mountain Hike Reviews

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