Search routes & places
Mount Parnassus


Log in and send us updates, images and resources

Mount Parnassus

Via Watrous Gulch: 7.3 miles out-and-back trail, 3,290 feet elevation gain. Via Ruby Gulch: 7.8 miles, 4,000 feet elevation gain. Woods Mountain: 12,940 feet Mount Parnassus: 13,580 feet. It's the 208th highest peak in Colorado. Generally considered a challenging route.

Mount Parnassus is a wonderful peak with awesome views from the summit. Often done in conjunction with Woods. Dogs are welcome, on leash (Arapahoe National Forest).

The Ruby Gulch trail is located near Berthoud Falls and the Urad mine. CR202 to Cr203. The hike begins at the parking area, near Urad mine, that has an informational sign about the URAD valley. Follow the Ruby Gulch trail until you see the south ridge of Mount Parnassus, the class 3 climb lies ahead. The rock is loose in places, choose your route wisely. Drop to the saddle between Parnassus and Woods, descend the north east ridge of Woods until you meet the trail. Follow the trail which goes eastward and then north to return to your car. Extreme care is required due to avalanche danger in this area.

  • Difficulty: Difficult C
  • Length: 7.3 mi
  • Elevation Gain: 3,290 ft
  • 13,580 ft
  • Land Manager: U.S. Forest Service
    Clear Creek Ranger District (ARNF)
  • Parking Permit Required: USFS Permits & Passes
  • Recommended Party Size: 12
  • Maximum Party Size: 12
  • Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12
Map
Activities
Trip Reports
Titles

This is a list of titles that represent the variations of trips you can take at this route/place. This includes side trips, extensions and peak combinations. Not seeing a title that fits your trip? Log in and send us updates, images, or resources.

  • Mount Parnassus and Woods via Ruby Gulch
  • Mount Parnassus via Watrous Gulch
  • Mount Parnassus and Bard Peak
Resources

There are no resources for this route/place. Log in and send us updates, images, or resources.