Owl Mountain

You can miss the trailhead if you are not paying attention as it is a little hidden. The trail heads off to the west from Teller Divide at Waypoint 7. The road is bumpy from the start. The US Forest Service Pines Campground is right across the road from the trailhead.

The trail makes a sharp left turn and you will find a large water bog that sits on the trail. It looks scary, but it's usually about 8-12 inches deep and has a solid bottom. Drive right down the center of the water to continue the trail. With a little luck, the water will be gone during the dry season as shown in these photos.

There is a large open meadow at the start of this obstacle suitable for a large camping group.

It's not a difficult switchback, but it is an indication that you a gaining in elevation fairly quickly. If you peer through the trees here, you will notice that you are beginning to rise out of the Michigan River valley. Because there is a radio tower at the top of Owl Mountain, this road will periodically get repaired.

Much of the trail has exposed and loose rocks that make for a ride bumpy. The road is easily navigated, just a little rough.

By now you have ascended enough that as the forest opens up, you can begin to view the valley below. As you proceed from here, you will find significantly more downfall and evidence of how often downed trees are cut to keep the road open. Cutting trees that have fallen across the road, large or small, is common on this trail and possibly necessary to complete the trail. Please have a way to clear the deadfall.

Continue straight. FR 790 intersects here from the north. FR 790 is a connecting road between Owl Mountain and Owl Creek, FR 792. This route is an alternative exit from the mountain after reaching the summit. If you choose to take this way off of the mountain, you will find FR 790 less rocky than Owl Mountain. Evidence of the downfall of timber near the top of Owl Mountain continues.

The final 100 yards to the summit is a steep climb on a loose rock surface. Although intimidating, the climb is easily accomplished. There is enough room on the summit for only a vehicle or two to park as the space is limited. Here you have an unobstructed view of the Never Summer Mountains off to the east. This Never Summer Range is part of the Rocky Mountain National Park. There is level space for a campsite just before the final climb to the summit.