Overview"Russell Peak" is located on the Continental Divide about 1 mile west-northwest of Berthoud Pass in Northern Colorado. "Russell Peak" was the site of the 2000 Berthoud BadAss Championships, a freeskiing competition. Berthoud Pass was the first ski area in Colorado, opening in 1937 and closing in 2001. Today, "Russell Peak" is a popular hiking and backcountry skiing destination. From Berthoud Pass, attaining the summit requires no more than first class hiking and 1,630' of elevation gain. Longs Peak and Colorado Mines Peak; Mount Flora, are visible from the summit.Getting ThereThe trailhead is on the west side of Berthoud Pass, which is at mile marker 243 on US 40. Berthoud Pass can be accessed from the north via Winter Park and Fraser or from the south via Empire. To access Berthoud Pass from the south, exit I-70 at exit # 233. Park on the east side of Berthoud Pass. US 40 is plowed regularly allowing easy year-round accessibility.
Red TapeNo permits required.
When To ClimbRussell Peak can be climbed all year long and recommended for skiing as early as November and as late as June!
CampingThere are 5 campgrounds between Berthoud Pass and Winter Park: 970-887-4100.
Floral Park Campground is south of Berthoud Pass on US 40: 303-567-2901.
Mountain ConditionsBerthoud Pass Weather Forecast
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Front Range (CO)
