About Ptarmigan Peak #35
The Ptarmigan Peak Trail is an excellent trail to experience a panoramic view of all the mountain ranges in the Dillon Ranger District - the Continental Divide, Gore Range, Tenmile Range and Williams Fork Range. At tree line this trail enters the Ptarmigan Peak Wilderness Area where you can either hike up to Ptarmigan Peak or Ptarmigan Pass.* There is a printable Recreation Quicksheet for this trail which is complete with directions, a map, details, and other information about this trail. Or to see quicksheets for other recreation areas across the Forest, click on the "Recreation Quicksheets" link in the right column and select the appropriate Ranger District.
How to Get There
From I-70 take Exit 205, Silverthorne/Dillon, and travel north on HWY 9 for approximately 0.2 miles to the intersection of Wildernest Drive/Rainbow Drive, (Wendy’s is on the corner). Turn right onto Rainbow Drive and then right onto Tanglewood Lane. Follow Tanglewood Lane to Ptarmigan Trail Rd and turn right. Follow this road for approximately 0.8 miles to the trailhead parking, which is on the right side of the road. The trail starts across the road from the parking area. There are arrows to guide you to the trailhead from the parking area through the private homes
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Ptarmigan Peak #35
Heading to Ptarmigan Peak #35? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Ptarmigan Peak #35?
No central reservation system listed for Ptarmigan Peak #35. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10082514) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Ptarmigan Peak #35?
From I-70 take Exit 205, Silverthorne/Dillon, and travel north on HWY 9 for approximately 0.2 miles to the intersection of Wildernest Drive/Rainbow Drive, (Wendy’s is on the corner). Turn right onto Rainbow Drive and then right onto Tanglewood Lane. Follow Tanglewood Lane to Ptarmigan Trail Rd and turn right. Follow this road for approximately 0.8 miles to the trailhead parking, which is on the ri…
References & Official Resources
