Jupiter Mountain

Jupiter Mountain is a summit in the Needle Mountains range of the Rocky Mountains reaching 13,836 feet in elevation. The peak sits within San Juan National Forest surrounded by dramatic alpine terrain and glacial valleys.

Early surveyors named the peak after the planet Jupiter, and four gullies on the north face were later named after the planet's moons. This naming reflects the historical connection between mapmaking and astronomical references in the region.

Located within the Weminuche Wilderness, Jupiter Mountain stands as the 92nd highest peak in Colorado, drawing mountaineers from across the region.

Access starts with the historic Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad to the Needleton stop, from which a trail leads to the base camp area. The route demands mountaineering experience and solid physical condition due to steep terrain and elevation gain.

The four north face gullies vary in climbing difficulty and appeal to mountaineers of different skill levels. The Io Couloir stands out as the most direct and technically demanding route to the summit.