Mount Rosa (#673)

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Features Fall Colors · Spring · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

This is a short destination trail that leads to the summit of Mount Rosa (11499 ft.)

This trail can be accessed from the St. Mary Falls Trail (#624) or Foresters Trail (#701). For a longer, more scenic journey, park at Gold Camp Rd. and High Drive and run St. Mary Falls Trail (#624), then turn to the right and take FSR 381 to the trailhead of Nelson's Trail (#672), then run Nelson's Trail (#672).

Other access points to Mount Rosa (#673) are at the end of FSR 381 or FSR 379. If you choose to use either of these access points, a high clearance vehicle is necessary, or you can park on Gold Camp Rd. and run to the trailhead down either Forest Service Road. FSR 381 and FSR 379 will take you to the trailhead of Nelson's Trail (#672), then run Nelson's Trail (#672).

The trailhead for Mount Rosa (#673) is located at the junction of Nelson's Trail (#672). While there is a signpost to indicate the trailhead, when you reach the junction it is easier to begin looking for cairns, especially if it is winter. Previous trail angels have left cairns along most of the Mount Rosa (#673) path to foster conquest.

The trail covers mostly barren ground and wind can be an issue, so be prepared. Dust devils can arise quickly, so eye protection is advisable. On a clear, still day the views of Kineo Mountain are incredible.

At about .4 mi, the trail begins to twist through the forest and up to the rocky summit of Mount Rosa.

The summit is small, yet rocky with a well-utilized fire pit. From the summit, clear views of Penrose-Rosemont Reservoir, Mount Big Chief, and Almagre Mountain can be taken in.

Monarch butterflies. Timbers include aspen and mixed pine. Blue Columbines, Tansy Asters, Purple Asters and Yellow Violets are among the wildflowers.