Greenhorn Peak

The peak of this mountain, one of the most impressive summits on the skyline of the Eastern Plains, can be accessed in summer and fall via a winding forest road that approaches from the north and west. Birding along this road can be great for montane forest birds such as Dusky Grouse, Northern Goshawk and Pine Grosbeak. Even Brown-capped Rosy-Finch has been seen on the peak, but they are irregular in occurance.

Restrictions: Beware dangerous weather conditions above treeline, even in summer

County: Huerfano

Directions: From the north (Rye and Westcliffe): From CO 165, turn onto FR 400 (also called Ophir Creek Road or Gardner Road) at the small village of Fairview, about 6 miles NW of San Isabel. Fairview is on most maps including Delorme. Greenhorn Mountain Road (FR 403) heads southeast to the peak from FR 400 about 7 miles south of CO 165 (Delorme 72 D2). From the south:The turnoff to Greenhorn Mountain Road can also be reached by heading north about 20 miles on 634 Road (=FR 400) from CO 69 about two miles west of Gardner. Note: Greenhorn Mountain Road starts in Custer County, then snakes back and forth across the ridgeline, which is also the county line. Everything to the south of the ridge is in Huerfano County.

Alternate Directions: From I-25 and CO 165, follow CO 165 west for 25 miles, to Ophir Creek Road, on the south side of the road. Follow Ophir Creek Road for 8 miles to Greenhorn Mountain Road, on the left. Follow this road for 18 miles to the peak.

Habitat: Alpine Tundra, Krummholz, Spruce-Fir Forest

Dates of Access: Summer to early fall
Hours:
Ownership: US Forest Service
Admission or Fees: Free

Parking: Yes

Lodging: Hotel in Colorado City or Westcliffe

Handicapped: No
Handicapped Access: Viewing from car

Delorme: 82 A2-3

ROC: 137 D1, 136 C1, 120 C4

Latitude: 37.88175
Longitude: -105.01324