Engineer Mountain Trail

About

Engineer Mountain Trail is a difficult hiking route in the San Juans near Silverton, Colorado, leading to the summit of Engineer Mountain, a distinctive 12,185-foot peak. The trail typically starts near Coal Bank Pass on Highway 550. The initial segment follows the Pass Creek Trail through dense forest and meadows before reaching an open meadow where the mountain rises prominently. From the meadow, hikers ascend via an unofficial but well-traveled path marked by rock cairns to the summit. This final pitch is steep, technical, and highly exposed, requiring scrambling and the use of hands. The total distance varies by source, cited as 6 miles, 9.9 miles, or 13.1 miles, with elevation gains ranging from 2,000 feet to significant climbs. The trail is accessible year-round, though winter conditions bring avalanche danger and potential snow. Parking is available at Coal Bank Pass but fills quickly on weekends. Wildlife includes marmots and pikas, and wildflowers are abundant in summer.