Nice grassy slopes near summit of Monte Cristo Peak
Views from the top of Monte Cristo Peak
View east from Monte Cristo toward Wyoming
On top of Mt. Mckinnon
Monte Cristo from Mt. Mckinnon
View east from Mckinnon
Monte Cristo Peak is an easy peak just off Hwy 39 east of Ogden. With over 1,500 feet of prominence, this peak offers sweeping views in all directions. A nearby peak, Mt. Mckinnon, has a sign from the highway and a short dirt road to its summit.
Both are good destinations but Monte Cristo is the highest.
Access:
Monte Cristo Peak
Distance: 0.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 200 feet
Summit Elevation: 9,148 feet
Kid difficulty rating: Easy
Access: Any Vehicle
The Route:
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From the gate, walk around and up the road. The first half of the hike is shaded. Soon the road is on the ridgeline and must be continued west. The road is more of a trail at this point, very overgrown with grass. Just before the summit, one can go strait up grassy slopes or continue on the road as it works its way up the south side and up. The grassy way is steeper and has some scrub brush to deal with near the top. The old road is easier but water bars make it a bit difficult for very young kids. The top is very flat, full of scrub bushes, nothing that great other than the view.
From Huntsville east of Ogden, take Highway 39 east. The road will climb high to a highpoint wrapping around Monte Cristo Peak. On the north side of the peak, there is a small road to the right. Turn in and park near the gate.