Colorado Cross Country Skiing Ski Mountaineering on Mount Yale

Mt. Yale (14,196 ft) is one of the most spectacular summits in the Fourteener region. The summit requires about 6 miles round trip skiing and 4,500 feet altitude gain. It has an excellent plowed approach (most years) with a clear trail, and relatively avalanche free ascent.

From Buena Vista go west at the light, and follow Colorado 306 (Cottonwood Pass road) for about 11 miles to the Collegiate Peaks Campground. Park here and prepare for the ascent. Most skiers will use skins for the approach, but waxless skis (metal edges of course) are possible. Follow the road for a short distance and find the Denny Creek trailhead on the right. Denny Creek trailhead has parking and bathrooms, but often the road is not plowed to this point.

The fun begins here. Follow the trail (marked with blazes) for about 1 mile when the Delany Creek drainage breaks the East (right) horizon. Follow this trail (creek) up to timberline. Some routefinding through the trees is required, but generally ascend the west flank of Mt. Yale. From timberline, the summit and route are obvious. Make the summit from the north ridge. Once at the summit enjoy the view of the surrounding Fourteeners and the Upper Arkansas Valley.

The ski down is fairly easy, using common sense and prudence along the summit ridge, and through the trees.

Please note that this is real mountaineering and all the usual precautions and equipment are necessary. Maps and route guides are available in all the local outdoor shops.