Review: Mount Blue Sky Summit & Glacial Lake Near Denver
Have you thought about a trip that takes you to new heights, quite literally? So Mount Blue Sky, at a staggering 14,265 feet, provides just that opportunity, yet it sits a convenient distance from Denver. More or less, I’m going to walk you through what the experience involves, plus what to consider to get the most out of your visit. I will say, for all the peak baggers or people who just treasure gorgeous mountain views, this particular spot might be just the ticket.
The Road to the Top: Driving Up Mount Blue Sky
The fact that you can actually drive almost all the way to the summit is, in a way, pretty unique for a fourteener. Now, the Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway, or what some folks still call the Squaw Mountain Road, is an attraction itself. First, remember this byway is typically open from late spring until sometime in the fall, nearly, depending on weather.
Speaking of weather, be aware that it can be unpredictable and can change very quickly at high altitudes. So, it’s a pretty good idea to check conditions before you head out. You would like that information to make sound judgement, that’s reasonable. But just imagine: driving up, the views are expansive. You’re likely to catch sight of forests, maybe some wildlife if you’re lucky, and the kind of alpine scenery that honestly just makes you want to breathe deeper.
When you get to the top, you’ll find a parking area, yet spaces fill up really quickly, specifically during peak season and on weekends. That is how it is. Consider that to plan your trip accordingly. There are restrooms and information spots at the summit area as well.
Conquering the Summit: What to Expect
Okay, you’ve made it to the top-ish. That last bit to the tippy-top? That part does require a little walking, yet it’s not a tough climb at all. Yet the altitude could have you breathing heavily. The reward? Just sweeping panoramic views, in fact. I am saying, it’s the kind of scenery that makes you realize just how very big the world really is. You might see several distant peaks, the plains stretching out far away, it may be. It’s just a terrific spot for taking photos, if that is something you find important or relevant to your tastes.
Remember when you’re up there, the air is notably thin, so you may perhaps experience altitude sickness. Take it slowly, be very sure to stay hydrated, and perhaps take breaks if you are experiencing some dizziness or shortness of breath. The sun is extra powerful at this altitude. Therefore, wearing sunscreen and sunglasses is honestly something you ought to think about.
There is history at the summit too, if you listen. In some ways, that mountain has seen so much! Indigenous people surely used these high places for spiritual practices and as vantage points, that’s more than likely. More recently, the remains of research facilities and observatories dot the summit, and those provide, in a manner, an eerie, awesome atmosphere. Spending just some minutes imagining who came before and their aims might well add more dimensions to your trip. It definitely can shift your outlook.
Summit Lake: A Glacial Gem
On the way up or down, carving out some minutes to stop at Summit Lake, that is something I can easily vouch for. Formed by glacial activity long back, in a way, the lake provides serene, still waters that completely mirror the sky and surrounding landscape. This, honestly, is an awesome location for, like, just some quiet contemplation or possibly a picnic, and even just pictures.
You might actually catch sight of some pretty special alpine vegetation there. Wildflowers put color on the slopes surrounding the lake, almost as if to enhance your visit further. It’s cold up there, too, so layering is normally smart, very true even in summer. It could get chilly very swiftly, mostly if the wind starts to kick up. You’ve got to know this!
Fishing isn’t approved in Summit Lake. I thought you may find that useful. However, even without dropping a line, the quiet and that natural surrounding still are sufficient to give a tranquil break. Actually think about bringing a blanket, grab something to read, and linger at this amazing mountain lake. It really does revive one’s very spirit. This really is worth knowing.
Things to Keep In Mind for Your Visit
So if I can, allow me to provide just a few extra thoughts to actually think about when prepping your trip:
- Timing is actually very important: As previously noted, the road normally is open seasonally. Get updates on road closures and conditions before planning. You’ve got to know.
- Altitude Awareness: This mountain, for all its accessible charm, it really isn’t joking regarding the elevation. Respect that, give the time that you need for acclimation, and listen closely to what your own body reveals to you.
- Leave No Trace: Retain the wilderness spots gorgeous just for others; carry out literally everything you bring, and then stick only to designated trails. No littering or feeding those little critters up there!
- Be prepared for changing weather: Always layer up and possibly be mindful of approaching storms. High alpine weather can be highly dynamic and often shifts extremely rapidly. So, you really need to plan.
- Bookings for timed entry: In recent years, there could perhaps have been pilot programs for controlling access via a booking system. Before that, just be sure and research if you are wanting that kind of access.
With awareness, you will certainly get more satisfaction out of this lovely spot near to Denver. Keep in mind the climate conditions up high can throw one off their expectations for an outdoors trip. And a timed-entry booking could change things depending how or when it is managed. Yet be sure you plan around that when considering timing.
Why Mount Blue Sky is Worth the Visit
Mount Blue Sky isn’t really just a mountain to check off a bucket list; really, it’s where ease in access fulfills that majestic beauty. A person that only desires breathtaking photos from just an incredible summit location can perhaps drive to a height above several other points within these contiguous US states. Those interested within ecology will treasure their visits up there with each stop from forest until they meet sparse tundra.
So whether driving right to its top is honestly perfect, even, with somebody wanting simply just quick stops with elderly partners, family or pals, Mount Blue Sky genuinely is worth some amount of preparation and attention when journeying through this part of Colorado’s Front Range.
Why delay visiting this striking location right close Denver? The heights look forward to you! You’re welcome.
#MountBlueSky #ColoradoMountains #DenverAdventures #Fourteener #GlacialLakes #MountainViews