Meridian Peak facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Meridian Peak |
|
|---|---|
 Meridian Peak
Location in Colorado
|
|
| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 12,432 ft (3,789 m) |
| Prominence | 366 ft (112 m) |
| Isolation | 1.93 mi (3.11 km) |
| Geography | |
| Location | Eagle and Summit counties, Colorado, United States |
| Parent range | Gore Range |
| Topo map | USGS 7.5' topographic map Piney Peak, Colorado |
| Climbing | |
| Easiest route | hike |
Meridian Peak is a tall mountain in the Gore Range. This mountain range is part of the huge Rocky Mountains in North America. The very top of Meridian Peak, called its summit, stands at 12,432 feet (about 3,789 meters) high!
This impressive peak is located in a special protected area. It's called the Eagles Nest Wilderness. You can find it about 14.5 kilometers (or 9 miles) northwest of the town of Vail in Colorado, United States. Meridian Peak sits right on a natural boundary. This boundary separates the White River National Forest and Eagle County from the Arapaho National Forest and Summit County.
Hiking to Meridian Peak
Meridian Peak is a popular spot for hikers. It's known for its beautiful views and challenging trails. The easiest way to reach the top is by hiking.
Finding the Trail
You can find Meridian Peak at the southern end of the Elliot Ridge Trail. To get to the mountain, you'll need to hike on several trails that lead into the Gore Range.
Popular Hiking Routes
One way to reach Meridian Peak is by starting on the Surprise Lake Trail.
- This trail goes south for 2.6 miles (about 4.2 kilometers) to a place called Surprise Lake.
- From Surprise Lake, the Gore Range Trail continues west for 1.9 miles (about 3.1 kilometers).
- This part of the trail leads to a meeting point with the Upper Cataract Lake and Mirror Lake Trail.
Reaching the Summit
Once you reach the junction, Mirror Lake is another 6.5 miles (about 10.5 kilometers) further. It sits at an elevation of 10,560 feet (about 3,219 meters).
- From Mirror Lake, the Elliot Ridge Trail is 3.2 miles (about 5.1 kilometers) away.
- The very top of Meridian Peak is then another 1.2 miles (about 1.9 kilometers) south from where you meet the Elliot Ridge Trail.
