Holt Mountain

Holt Mountain is a mountain peak located in the Wet Mountains near Wetmore, Colorado. The hike to the top of Holt Mountain is long and strenuous. The out and back hike is 10.4 miles long and gains 3,511 feet of elevation.

This hike starts from a parking area off of State Highway 96. There are no amenities at the trailhead. You will be hiking in the San Isabel National Forest. Begin hiking west on Lewis Creek Trail. You will be hiking uphill amongst coniferous trees. As you continue trekking, you will be treated to periodic views down the valley. You also may be able to catch a glimpse of rock formations and mountain peaks. After 1.8 miles of hiking, the trail will begin to switch back up the slope. This will last for 0.5 miles. Continue uphill for 0.2 miles. Here you will encounter a short section of switchbacks. These will last for 0.1 miles. 

The trail begins to open up a bit here as you walk through a field dotted with aspen trees. Continue hiking uphill. Another 2 miles will bring you to a junction. Go right onto Holt Mountain Road. The trail is mostly flat here. After hiking 0.5 miles on the road, you will leave the trail and head east toward Holt Mountain. There is no trail here. Follow the path of least resistance to reach the summit. The summit of Holt Mountain is completely wooded and there are no views. Better views can be found on the more bare hills off the side of Holt Mountain Road. After taking ample time to rest, turn around and retrace your steps to return to the parking area.

The San Isabel National Forest is open for hiking year round. There are no associated fees to hike here. Dogs are allowed on this trail, but they must be on a leash at all times.