Stanley Mountain is located 3.85 miles west of Berthoud Pass along the CDT. This lofty alpine trek climbs steeply above treeline, then moderates for two miles through expansive tundra to the summit. Good trail conditions and mild grades are ideal for families, an acclimation hike and winter travel.

Indian Paintbrush belongs to a genus of 200 species of partially or fully parasitic plants that derive nourishment from the roots of other plants

This section of the CDT is variously known as the Mount Nystrom Trail

Northeast view over the Current Creek drainage on a level reprieve through treeline

Bighorn sheep have a 9-stage digestive process that enables them to maximize lower quality food

The trail levels on a high, thin ridge before switchbacks climb steeply to the Vasquez Wilderness Boundary in open tundra

The CDT heads southwest from Berthoud Pass in a patchy subalpine forest before clearing treeline at .85 miles

The bigroot spring beauty's tap root reaches several feet down to anchor the plant and access more nutrient rich soil

Northeast view toward Mt Flora (13,132') and Mount Eva (13,130')

Fellfields occur on windswept slopes that hold little moisture, with rock comprising up to half its surface

Most alpine flowers are perennials, which use the same root system for several years - a more efficient means of propagation amid short growing seasons

Edward Berthoud named Vasquez Peak (12,947'), the highest peak in the wilderness

Alpine tundra grasses include the Alpine Blue Grass, Skyline Blue Grass, Spike Trisetum, Tufted Hair Grass, Spreading Wheatgrass, Kobresia and Pyrennian Sedge

The Stanley Mountain Trail passes over several alpine basins, ideal places to see wildlife

The entire Vasquez Peak Wilderness Area stands above 10,000'

Northwest view across the Fraser Experimental Forest from the CDT