Cinnamon Mountain: A Summit of San Juan Scenery

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Hike to panoramic views from Cinnamon Mountain, a 13,336-foot peak in the heart of Colorado's stunning San Juan Mountains.

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Cinnamon Mountain

Cinnamon Mountain, a 13,336-foot peak in the San Juan Mountains of Colorado, offers stunning panoramic views and access to the Alpine Loop Back Country Byway. Though now unranked, it provides a rewarding hiking experience with relatively easy access from Cinnamon Pass.

A brief summary to Cinnamon Mountain

Colorado, US

Local tips

Check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions in the San Juan Mountains can change rapidly.
Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities on the mountain.
Be prepared for afternoon thunderstorms, especially during the summer monsoon season.
Wear sturdy hiking boots and dress in layers, as the temperature can vary greatly depending on the elevation and time of day.
Consider pairing your hike with a visit to nearby Animas Forks, a well-preserved ghost town.

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Getting There

Driving

The most common approach to Cinnamon Mountain is via the Alpine Loop Back Country Byway. From Silverton, head north on County Road 2 for approximately 12 miles. After passing through Animas Forks, turn right uphill onto Cinnamon Pass Road. This road is unpaved and requires a high-clearance vehicle, especially during wet conditions. The road to Cinnamon Pass is typically open from late spring to early fall, depending on snow conditions. There are no toll roads or mandatory access fees.
Hiking

From Cinnamon Pass, the summit of Cinnamon Mountain is a relatively short and straightforward hike. Follow the well-used trail south across the tundra, passing by some old mining structures. The trail then veers west, climbing to the saddle east of the summit. A short talus scramble may be required before reaching the saddle. From the ridge, it's an easy walk to the summit. The roundtrip distance from Cinnamon Pass is approximately 1.5 miles, with an elevation gain of about 700 feet. No special transport tickets or fares are required.

Discover more about Cinnamon Mountain

Cinnamon Mountain, rising to an elevation of 13,336 feet (4,065 meters), is a prominent summit located in San Juan County, Colorado. Situated 10.5 miles northeast of Silverton and 1.5 miles east of Animas Forks, the mountain is part of the San Juan Mountains, a subrange of the Rocky Mountains. While Cinnamon Mountain was once considered a ranked summit, the application of LIDAR technology led to its demotion, with a prominence of 293 feet. Despite this, it remains a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking breathtaking views and a taste of the Colorado high country. The mountain is administered by the Bureau of Land Management. Access to Cinnamon Mountain is facilitated by the Alpine Loop Back Country Byway via Cinnamon Pass. The area is known for its significant topographic relief, with the summit rising over 2,400 feet above the Animas River in just one mile. The mountain's name has been officially recognized by the United States Board on Geographic Names. The climate around Cinnamon Mountain is alpine subarctic, characterized by cold, snowy winters and cool to warm summers. Precipitation occurs year-round, with snow in winter and thunderstorms in summer, particularly during the monsoon season in late July and August. Hikers should be prepared for afternoon rain, hail, and lightning during this time.