Published October 2, 2026 10:40am
It’s early October, and as Coloradans know so well, that means the potential for some pretty significant snowstorms at higher elevations around the Centennial State.
This seasonal hazard for hikers was put on display on October 1, when El Paso County Search and Rescue responded to the report of a stranded hiker on the 14,115-foot Pikes Peak outside of Colorado Springs. Thankfully, the mountain’s namesake highway allowed the rescue team to reach the summit, leading to a successful mission. Despite the snowy conditions, mountain crews have been able to keep the road open to the public with only a delayed opening of the summit-bound portion on October 1 and 2.
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This situation is a good reminder to the state’s hikers to be highly aware of the forecast, especially during a time of the year when deadly wintry conditions may pop up. Most of the state’s high-elevation terrain is far less accessible than the summit of Pikes Peak, which can mean a very dangerous situation and a long rescue mission should things go wrong. Implementing a very conservative approach toward risk is recommended.
As noted by the El Paso County Search and Rescue team, “Winter has come to the mountains, and if you have not already begun packing accordingly, let this be your sign. Know your limits and skill level, especially above treeline. Check the weather and, most importantly, turn around if the conditions and/or weather are not favorable. Winter conditions in the mountains can be unforgiving and small mistakes often add up quickly. Stay safe out there.”
See a few more photos of the summit conditions below:
Usually there’s a great view from this spot – but not in these conditions (El Paso County Search and Rescue)
Another look at Pikes Peak summit conditions in recent days (El Paso County Search and Rescue)
Another look at Pikes Peak summit conditions in recent days (El Paso County Search and Rescue)
Help support the El Paso County Search and Rescue team here.
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