Mount Sneffels via Yankee Boy Basin Hike

The Mount Sneffels via Yankee Boy Basin Hike is a challenging adventure with some rugged terrain that will require proper hiking boots, crampons/microspikes, and hiking poles to safely traverse. Additionally, the road leading into the trailhead is fairly rough, so you will need a 4×4 high clearance vehicle to get there.

Although this route is only suitable for experienced hikers/climbers, the stunning alpine scenery that you will experience from the summit of Mount Sneffels is sure to be a memory that you won’t forget. If you are looking for a rugged and challenging adventure in the San Juan Mountains, then this hike should definitely make it to the top of your list.

Setting out from the parking area, you will make your way to the northwest alo9ng Yankee Boy Basin Road, following the rugged off-road vehicle path as it climbs uphill in the direction of Mount Sneffels. After 0.6mi along the road, you will find an optional path branching off to the left that will take you on a short detour to view the Upper and Lower Twin Falls.

Continuing along the road to the northwest for another 1.7mi, you will gain more elevation and enjoy the views of the surrounding peaks, including the Stoney and Teakettle mountains. After working your way through a series of wide switchbacks along the road, you will arrive at a junction.

Taking the road on the right, you will follow it for 0.2mi and arrive at a footpath branching off to the left that will take you up to the summit of the imposing Mount Sneffels before you. Here, you will traverse some loose scree slopes for 0.4mi and keep to the right at a fork leading north towards the summit.

This next portion of the trail passes through some rocky and rugged terrain, so be sure to exercise caution and take your time working your way up to the summit. Over the next 0.5mi, you will traverse some more scree slopes before arriving at some rocky terrain to the southeast of the summit. Carefully scrambling over this in a northwestern direction, you will come to the top of Mount Sneffels and be inundated with breathtaking views of the surrounding alpine landscape, including the Blue Lakes Below to the southwest.

Once you have experienced the amazing views and have paused for some rest, carefully descend the mountainside along the same route to return to the trailhead where you began the Mount Sneffels via Yankee Boy Basin Hike.

Trail Highlights

Mount Sneffels

A prominent peak in the Rocky Mountains that is known for its vertical relief, Mount Sneffels is an imposing fourteener that rises 7200ft above the nearby town of Ridgway. The mountain is the 51st highest peak in North America and is one of the most photographed peaks within the state of Colorado.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Mount Sneffels a hard fourteener?

While some of the terrain leading up to the summit is fairly rugged, Mount Sneffels is a great fourteener to climb because it has several access points, namely from Yankee Boy Basin and the Blue Lakes.

What class is Mount Sneffels?

Mount Sneffels is a class 3 climb, although it is a fairly easy one. This makes it ideal for those new to summiting challenging peaks.