W0C/MZ-051

 This peak is a short distance north of Steamboat Springs. While planning for my trip, I was surprised to see it hadn't been activated before, since it didn't look like a hard one. The best place to start is probably the Red Dirt Trailhead on CR 129. There is a pullout with space for about half a dozen cars. The trail was easy to follow, but the brush along it could have used some trimming.

Near the start of the trail.

 The first short section of the trail is parallel to the road as it slowly climbs across a steep slope. When it reaches the end of the steep section, it turns right and heads into the woods. 

Along the trail.

 The trail appears to get enough use to keep the tread clear, but the brush was growing over it. It had rained the night before, so my legs and shoes were quickly soaked. I manage to keep my shirt mostly dry. There wasn't rain in the forecast until late morning, but the clouds kept coming and going.

Entering the wilderness area, relatively close to the peak.

The trail climbs steadily, with only one section that loses a little bit of elevation before crossing a meadow. The Red Dirt Trail does not go over the summit, so a little bushwhacking is required. There is a large boulder at the high point of the trail, and I turned off here to go up. I started going up a wide clearing, but the brush was pretty bad. It was much easier going in the forest.

View from the summit.

I was surprised to find a clearing with a view at the summit. There was even a register. It had warmed up a little since I left the trailhead, but was still chilly, so I didn't wait too long to get on the air. I had cell service on top. Once I made my contacts, however, I packed up and headed down. I was getting chilly.

Crossing one of the aspen stands.

 

I stayed in the forest until I got to the trail, then jogged back. This went well until I was a mile or two from the car when I tripped and donated a little blood to the trail. A yearly donation. Back at the car I tried to text my wife, but there was no service. That would have to wait until I was almost back in town.
 

Fish Creek Falls, which we visited later in the day.

  

Trailhead: Red Dirt Trail, on CR 129 north of town.

Website: SOTA Site.

Maps: AA6XA SOTA Hikes map.

Route: Take the Red Dirt Trail to its high point, then go through the woods to the summit.

Red Tape: None.