Peak X9330

Jackson County has 114 mountain summits that are officially designated as “ranked” peaks. X9330 is one of them, and its elevation places it as the 93rd highest of the 114. The USGS has not given it a name, so it is simply identified by its elevation: 9,330 feet above MSL. The actual high point of this peak is difficult to ascertain, because its “top” is rather flat and is in an area of continuous coniferous forest cover. It’s on the Continental Divide, and the boundaries of Jackson County and Grand County pass through the “summit”, wherever that really is. When I hiked up the peak with my puppy Orizaba, I walked all over the small area where the highest point needs to be, so that I could feel confident I had truly been on the HP. A new fence has been constructed to designate the county boundaries, so this fence line helps in confining the area to “most likely” spots.

The “summit” offers no views–just dense trees. When we were there in early morning, the mosquitos feasted on us. I had forgotten to bring an “essential” on summer climbs or hikes in Colorado’s mountains that involve ascending through spruce and fir tree cover: mosquito spray! I lost a lot of blood, unnecessarily. We approached from the east, keeping within a strip of BLM land to reach the larger block of public land. Once we attained the Continental Divide we turned and walked northwest along the divide to the high point. We crossed high mountain meadows and encountered lots of elk and a few mule deer. Aside from the mosquitos, it was pleasant!

The cache is a jar that’s wrapped in silver duct tape. It’s hidden about 20 feet from the fence line alongside a small fallen log, at the base of a small, deformed fir tree. It’s covered with a few sticks for concealment and to keep it in place. The hike entails an elevation gain of about 700 feet and a round trip distance of a little more than 4.5 miles. There is no trail, and some bushwhacking is necessary. Be certain to bring a pen or pencil. I believe I left a pen in the cache, but am uncertain. Enjoy the hike, and protect yourself from the skeeters!