Name: Conundrum Peak
Rating: 4.0

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Access to this trail requires use of either Castle Peak or Conundrum Couloir (Snow Route) trails. See these links for road information.

The land manager requests dogs be leashed. While a good mountain dog can do this hike, it's a long day full of loose, rocky terrain. Consider keeping it people only.

Description

From the summit of Castle Peak, it's under a mile to Conundrum, visible right across Montezuma Basin. Of the two apparent summits, the one to the right (north of Conundrum Couloir (Snow Route) ) is the true summit. Descend northwest down loose rock to the Castle-Conundrum Saddle at 13,800 ft. While the trail here is rocky and hard to follow, it becomes easier on the ascent up Conundrum. Continue up steep, rocky trails similar to but easier than the ridge up Castle Peak. Expect this bit to be absurdly steep. It's probably easier with snow present.The trail will flatten as you approach the false summit. From here, dip down a notch toward Conundrum Couloir (Snow Route) before climbing up another 50 ft or so to attain the real summit.

Adventurous types may opt to ski or glissade down Conundrum Couloir (Snow Route), while true gluttons for punishment will just to the route in reverse. Either way, it's a hell of a day.