The Bristlecone Pine Scenic Area has long been one of my favorite places. Located on Windy Ridge on Mount Bross, these trees, which define the word “gnarled,” have withstood the harsh, high-altitude environment for thousands of years.
Relatively accessible in the summertime, the area requires a little work to reach in winter, but this is the season that really complements these mountain sentinels.
The area can be reached either on snowshoes or skis, though the gentle grade makes for an easy, quick way down if you’re on skis. My goal on a recent visit was to photograph the sun setting on the bristlecones, then hurry down before dark (although of course I was prepared to come out in the dark), so skis were perfect.
With the road’s southern exposure and the winds for which the mountain is known, you’ll want to time your trip for a calm day after a new snowfall. Even then, there may be one or two spots along the road that are blown clear.
Trail Description
Assuming that you are able to drive to the parking area just before the Paris Mill, ski up the road for .25 mile to a signed road junction. The right fork is signed, somewhat optimistically, as 2.5 miles to Windy Ridge. Take the Windy Ridge road as it contours across the south face of Mount Bross, staying well below treeline.
After crossing a minor ridge at 1.5 miles, the road turns north, reaching the ruins of the Mineral Park Mine after 3.1 miles. The roads can be a little confusing in the vicinity of the mine, so pay careful attention here. The road swings left through the old buildings, heading northwest up Dolly Varden Gulch, then 0.1 mile after the mine, the road switchbacks uphill to the right and into the trees again, passing some concrete foundations. Because the road may not be tracked here, carefully follow it up through another switchback until it reaches the exposed nose of a minor ridge at 11,630 feet (3.3 miles). Follow the road just over one-tenth of a mile across open slopes to the summer parking area, distinguished at this time of year only by a section of fence and small information sign.
Ski through the opening in the fence and head east toward the obvious open area.
You’re here, and ready to marvel at these ancient denizens of this inhospitable zone.
Be sure to take careful note of the way back down the road, because the wind can cover your tracks in a few minutes.
Dave Cooper is the author of “Colorado Snow Climbs: A Guide for All Seasons.”
The Details
Getting to the trailhead: Drive on Colorado 9 to the town of Alma, 5.3 miles north of Fairplay. In the center of town, turn west onto County Road 8, signed to Kite Lake. This junction is almost directly opposite the South Park Saloon, one of our favorite places to enjoy Mexican food after a day in the hills.
Drive on County Road 8 as far as it has been plowed, usually a little before the Paris Mill, a distance of 2.5 miles from Alma. A four-wheel-drive vehicle is recommended for this road, since it may be a while after a storm that the road is plowed. My old Subaru had a tough time making it the last half mile or so!
Statistics and difficulty: The tour gains 1,400 feet in 3.9 miles one way. The gentle grade of the road dictates an “Easiest” designation, but some route-finding skills may be necessary above the mine if the road is untracked. Also remember that this can be a hostile environment above treeline in the winter, so bring appropriate clothing.
USGS Quads: Alma, CO
