Overview
The Mount Wilcox is a nice half day outing suitable for beginning peak baggers and anyone who enjoys getting above treeline.
As this mountian is along the Front Range it is within easy range of the Denver area. Several 13er peaks frame one of the access valleys allowing for a multiple summit day--Argentine Peak, Mt. Edwards, McClellan Mountain, UN 13449 and Square Top Mountain.
Getting There Access to the mountain can be gained from any of three trailheads.
Waldorf Mine: The road to this TH is 3 miles from Georgetown up the Guanella Pass road. After a sharp switchback turn right onto a dirt road. Normally there are trucks with ATV trailers parked along the sides as the road is a popular riding area. Climb up several switchbacks for a mile to an old railroad grade, marked as road 248, follow this for 4.5 miles to the Waldorf Mine.
Silver Dollar Lake: This TH is accessed from just beyond the Guanella Pass campground. The road may not be passable requiring parking just off the Guanella Pass road.
Guanella Pass: This TH is at the pass where everyone parks to attempt Mt. Bierstadt, Mt. Evans and the surrounding 13ers. NOTE: As of 12/16/2006 the county will not be plowing the Guanella Pass road.
Map: The National Geographic Trails Illustrated Map #104 Idaho Springs, Georgetown, Loveland Pass shows the entire area.
Red TapeThe mountain is in the Arapaho National Forest. No passes are required from the three trailheads.
General conditions can be found on the National Forest site. Questions about camping etc can be answered from the Clear Creek Ranger District.
When To Climb
This mountain is accessible year round. While it is most often climbed in the summer months the summit log did list some winter visitors.
CampingThere are two campsites along the Guanella Pass road, one at Clear Creek and another at Guanella Pass. There are numerous areas along Guanella Pass and the Waldorf mine road that offer undeveloped camping sites.
Mountain ConditionsPay attention to the weather at all times. Summer storms can develop very quickly. As all routes are above treeline you will be one of the highest points. The local weather forcast can be found here.
Images
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Front Range (CO)
