St. Mary's Glacier: A Year-Round Alpine Escape

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Hike to a year-round snowfield near Denver for stunning views, alpine scenery, and outdoor adventure in the heart of the Rockies.

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St Mary's Glacier

St. Mary's Glacier, near Idaho Springs, Colorado, is a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking stunning mountain views and a unique alpine experience. Though often called a glacier, it's technically a perennial snowfield that offers year-round recreation opportunities, from hiking and picnicking in the summer to snowshoeing and skiing in the winter.

A brief summary to St Mary's Glacier

7599 Fall River Rd, Idaho Springs, Colorado, 80452, US

Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Saturday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, as parking lots fill up quickly.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good traction due to the rocky and uneven trail.
Bring cash or check for the parking fee, as credit cards are not accepted at some parking locations.
Check the weather forecast and dress in layers, as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
Stay on the trail to avoid damaging the fragile alpine environment and for your safety.

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Getting There

Driving

From Denver, take I-70 west to Exit 238 for Fall River Road. Follow Fall River Road for approximately 9 miles to reach St. Mary's Glacier. As you approach the trailhead, you'll find two parking lots. The first lot is on the left, and a smaller overflow lot is a bit further up the road. Parking costs $20 per vehicle per day. Payment is typically made via cash or check at a self-pay kiosk. Be sure to display the permit on your windshield to avoid a ticket. Note that parking can be limited, especially on weekends, so arriving early is recommended.
Walking

After parking, locate the trailhead, which is a short walk up the road from the first parking lot or a short walk down from the second parking lot. The trail is well-defined but rocky, so wear appropriate footwear. Follow the trail uphill, keeping to the left at any minor forks. The hike to St. Mary's Lake is approximately 1 mile round trip, and continuing to the base of the snowfield adds another 0.5 miles. There are no additional fees or special transport required to access the snowfield beyond the parking fee.

Discover more about St Mary's Glacier

St. Mary's Glacier, nestled in the Arapaho National Forest, is a captivating destination that offers a taste of the alpine environment close to Denver. Despite its name, St. Mary's Glacier is, in fact, a semi-permanent snowfield, a distinction that means it doesn't move like a true glacier. This icy expanse, surrounded by rugged peaks and bristlecone pine forests, provides a stunning backdrop for outdoor adventures year-round. Formed approximately 7,000 years ago, the snowfield was discovered by miners in the late 1800s who named it after their patron saint. Since the early 1900s, it has drawn hikers and skiers seeking a unique recreational experience. The hike to the base of the snowfield is a relatively easy to moderate 1 to 1.5-mile trek, making it accessible to a wide range of visitors. The trail winds through a rocky landscape with a noticeable incline, offering panoramic views of the surrounding Rocky Mountains. In the summer, visitors can hike to St. Mary's Lake and even ascend the snowfield, enjoying the crisp mountain air and breathtaking scenery. It's a popular spot for picnics and photography, with the glacier's reflection shimmering in the lake's surface. In winter, the area transforms into a haven for snowshoeing and backcountry skiing, requiring proper gear and caution due to alpine conditions. While St. Mary's Glacier offers a memorable experience, visitors should be prepared for the $20 parking fee and the rocky, sometimes slippery trail. Despite these minor inconveniences, the stunning views and unique alpine environment make St. Mary's Glacier a worthwhile destination for anyone seeking a quick escape into the Colorado wilderness.