Buena Vista Peak: A High-Altitude Lookout in Dinosaur National Monument
Buena Vista Peak is a high mountain peak at an elevation of 2,614m (8,575ft) above sea level, located in Moffat County, in the U.S. state of Colorado. Often overshadowed by its neighbor, Zenobia Peak, this summit offers one of the most rugged and remote driving experiences in the region.
Where is Buena Vista Peak?
The peak is located in the northwestern corner of Colorado, near the Utah border. Unlike other peaks with the same name in California or Arizona, this Buena Vista Peak is situated within the Dinosaur National Monument. It sits on the Douglas Mountain plateau, overlooking the dramatic canyons carved by the Green and Yampa Rivers. In some older topographic maps, the mountain is also referred to as Round Top Mountain, a name often used for the survey marker located near the lookout tower.
Buena Vista Peak Road Facts
What’s at the summit of Buena Vista Peak?
At the summit stands a historic fire lookout tower built in 1964. While most visitors stay on the paved scenic drives of the park, those who venture here are rewarded with a 360-degree panorama that includes Steamboat Rock and the distant Uinta Mountains of Utah.
Is the road to Buena Vista Peak unpaved?
The road to the summit is a primitive gravel and rocky track. It is not maintained for standard passenger cars; a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle is essential. The trail is notably steep and narrow in sections, with significant "shelf road" exposure that may be daunting for those with a fear of heights. Starting from the paved Paved Harpers Corner Road, north of Robinson Place, the road is 9.6 km (5.96 miles) long.
When to drive to Buena Vista Peak?
The route is strictly seasonal, typically impassable from late October to June due to heavy snow. During the summer, the area is prone to violent afternoon thunderstorms. Visitors are warned to stay away from the lookout during lightning activity. Additionally, the dirt track becomes dangerously slick (clay mud) when wet, making travel impossible even for specialized vehicles.
Pic: J H