Deer Mountain caps a massive, divisive ridge between Beaver Meadows (south), and Horseshoe Park (northwest). This relatively short hike follows a well-maintained trail through ponderosa parks, aspen stands, and subalpine forests to the summit, which rises just above all other points on the ridge. The trail's southern exposure clears it of snow longer than many others in the Park, extending accessibility from late spring to early winter.

Mt Chapin, Mt Chiquita, and Ypsilon Mountain nudge over the horizon from Deer Ridge Junction

Agitated elk hold their heads high, pull their ears back and flare their nostrils - and sometimes even punch with their front hooves

Aspen are deciduous trees that can reach 45-90' tall

Deer Mountain summit (10,013')

A high water table under Beaver Meadows creates conditions that do not support tree growth; these meadow-creating conditions are perpetuated over time by grazing wildlife and natural fires

During the rut, bull elk will wallow in urine-soaked mud to attract cows

Views of the Mummy Range on a west-facing switchback on Deer Mountain

Views across Horseshoe Park and Fall River from the Deer Mountain Trail

Panoramas over Beaver Meadows and Moraine Park on the hike to Deer Mountain

Aspen typically grow in large clonal colonies derived from a single seedling; new stems in the colony may appear up to 120' from the parent tree