Saint Mary's Glacier actually isn't a glacier at all; it's simply a snowfield that doesn't completely melt in the warmer months. The persistence of snow throughout the year caused people to start referring to the snow mass as a glacier, but it isn't actually moving down the valley (which is the distinguishing feature of a glacier). This is still a cool feature to come check out any time of year.

Matthew

November 9, 2023

Running

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Best Hikes to Saint Mary's Snowfield

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1. Saint Mary's Glacier — Arapaho National Forest

3.18km

01:18

200m

Alpine hike to a year-round snowfield where skiers climb past a mirror-like glacial lake.

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Moderate

5.0

(3)

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2. James Peak Trail — James Peak Wilderness

13.0km

05:35

870m

Alpine adventure crossing Saint Mary's Snowfield to a 13,294-foot summit with 360-degree views.

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Hard

5.0

(1)

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3. Saint Mary's Lake – Saint Mary's Snowfield loop from Empire

8.69km

03:04

470m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

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Moderate

Details

Informations

Elevation 3,370 m

Weather

Most visited during

January

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November

December

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Location: Clear Creek County, Colorado, United States

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Saint Mary's Snowfield

1. Saint Mary's Glacier — Arapaho National Forest

2. James Peak Trail — James Peak Wilderness

3. Saint Mary's Lake – Saint Mary's Snowfield loop from Empire

Other Popular Places to Check Out

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