Near New York Mountain to Nolan Lake to Peter Estin Hut
This is the top of the ridge that is the start of the NY Lake Trail. Your first step is straight ahead. Put your trekking poles in your pack as you'll need both hands.
Near New York Mountain to Nolan Lake to Peter Estin Hut
South from New York Mountain
Near New York Mountain to Nolan Lake to Peter Estin Hut
Capital / Snowmass / Maroon Bells
Near New York Mountain to Nolan Lake to Peter Estin Hut
View from the summit with Summit Cairn marker - looking South/Southwest.
Near New York Mountain to Nolan Lake to Peter Estin Hut
Start of the NY Lake Trail - where it splits off the NY Mountain Trail.

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Hike Route

New York Mountain to Nolan Lake to Peter Estin Hut

5.0 (1 Rating)
Extending the traditional hike to the Peter Estin Hut via New York Mountain and Nolan Lake.
28.4
mi
Distance
8,293
ft
Gain
strenuous
Difficulty
BirdingCommonly BackpackedFall ColorsLakeRiver/CreekSpringSwimmingViewsWildflowersWildlife
Access Issues
Driving to trailhead is not possible in winter.

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
28.42mi
Distance
8,293ft
Elevation Gain
8,293ft
Elevation Loss
65%
Max Grade
12,546ft
High Point
9,143ft
Low Point
Path Type
There and Back
Description
The trek was the first day on a multi-hut backpacking trip. A tough day to start, but doable. We began at the high trailhead to New York Mountain near the Polar Star Hut. We quickly summited New York and took a break with the views of Edwards, Eagle, and the east.The trail between New York Mountain and Nolan Lake is faint at best and there were times where we bushwacked from visible point to point. Finally we encountered the well-tracked Nolan Lake Trail and headed there for lunch.After descending the Nolan Lake Trail, we broke off and headed on a summer-horse, winter-ski trail towards the trailhead to Peter Estin. This was done in September and was stunning with the fall leaves.The final slog up to Peter Estin with full packs was tough, but we were rewarded at the hut with a perfect evening and stunning views.

Route Conditions

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Contributors
Frank Trotter