Wheeler Mountain

Take the County Road (CR) 4, west from Colorado 9, approx. 1 mile south of Hoosier Pass. On reaching the parking area at Montgomery Reservoir cross a small bridge and continue around the reservoir, the road gets a little rough. At 1.7 miles from turning on to CR.  locate a turn-off to the left, turn left and park near a water shed and concrete wall. This is the trailhead. Hike west on Platte Gulch 4WD road to Wheeler Lake (12,168'). Ascend the grassy headwall, northwest of the lake to an unnamed lake. Turn northwest and continue toward the small saddle on Wheeler's south ridge. The summit is 1/4 mile from the saddle on Class 3 scrambling terrain. The easiest route traverses north across Wheeler's upper west face over several rock ribs. There are several areas where it is necessary to climb up onto a rock rib only to have to drop again to avoid cliffs up to your right. The summit is just above a large "Y" of white rock on the west side. The easiest option to reach the summit may be to climb toward a notch on the left and traverse right across small, easy Class 3 ledges just below the summit before turning left to gain the top, Alternatively the summit can be gained by climbing the gully right of the summit.

• Suitable Activities: Hiking, Scrambling
• Seasons: Year-round
• Weather: View weather forecast

• Length: 8.5 mi
• Elevation Gain: 2,900 ft
• High Point: 13,690 ft

• Land Manager: U.S. Forest Service
  Dillon Ranger District (WRNF)
• Parking Permit Required: USFS Permits & Passes
• Recommended Party Size: 12
• Maximum Party Size: 12
• Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12