Grays Peak
14,278 feet
Colorado's Highest on the Continental Divide
Why Grays Peak?
Grays Peak is one of the most popular and beginner-friendly 14ers in Colorado. At 14,278 feet, it is the highest peak on the Continental Divide and offers an accessible Class 1 trail with steady elevation gain. Sharing a trailhead with Torreys Peak, Grays provides stunning 360-degree summit views and a well-maintained route that is perfect for first-time 14er climbers. The trail is heavily trafficked, well-marked, and features no technical sections. It is an achievable, memorable, and absolutely beautiful introduction to high-altitude mountaineering.
Getting to the Trailhead
Stevens Gulch Trailhead
- Trailhead Elevation:
- 11,280 feet
- From Denver:
- 52 miles (1 hour 20 minutes)
Directions
From Denver, take I-70 West to exit 221 for Bakerville. Turn right onto Stevens Gulch Road and follow for approximately 3 miles to the trailhead parking area.
Road Access
Stevens Gulch Road is rocky and not well-maintained. Plan on at least an hour drive for the last two miles to the trailhead. High clearance vehicles can make it to the trailhead, but it takes much longer than expected. Standard cars can park about 2 miles from the trailhead and walk the rest. The road is closed in winter (typically November through May).
Parking Information
- There is a large gravel parking area with restrooms. Multiple dispersed camping spots are available near the trailhead.
- Capacity: Approximately 50-60 vehicles
- No fees required
Pro Tip: The parking lot fills up very early. Strongly consider arriving the night before and camping at one of the many dispersed camping spots near the trailhead. If day-tripping, arrive before 5:00 AM.
The Route
Grays Peak via North Slopes
Class 1
This is a straightforward out-and-back route following a well-defined trail the entire way. The trail is heavily trafficked and extremely easy to follow. You will gain 3,000 feet over approximately 4.0 miles to the summit, with a steady but manageable grade throughout.
The trail begins in a beautiful alpine valley alongside a creek. You will hike through wildflower meadows (peak bloom in July) with views of both Grays and Torreys ahead. The grade is gentle to moderate. This section is shared with Torreys Peak hikers, so expect company. The trail is obvious and well-worn. You will cross a few small streams (easy rock hops) and pass through grassy tundra dotted with boulders.
At the signed junction, turn left for Grays. The trail continues with steady switchbacks up the northern slope. The route is Class 1 the entire way with expansive views opening up as you climb. The terrain is rocky tundra with a clear, well-maintained trail. Above 13,500 feet, the air gets thin and you will need to pace yourself. The final approach to the summit is a gradual climb across a broad plateau. The trail is obvious all the way to the top.
The summit of Grays is a rocky plateau with a summit register, cairn, and incredible 360-degree views. Just across the saddle to the southwest, you will see Torreys Peak. The Continental Divide stretches in both directions. On clear days, you can see Denver and the Front Range to the east. The summit is often windy, so bring layers. Many hikers continue to Torreys Peak from here via the connecting ridge (adds 1 mile and 600 feet of gain).
Descent
Retrace your steps back down the same trail. Expect about 2 to 3 hours for the descent. Watch your footing on the steep sections. The descent is easier on your lungs but harder on your knees.
What's Special About Grays Peak?
Class 1 Trail
The entire route is a well-maintained hiking trail with no scrambling, no exposure, and no technical sections. If you can hike, you can do this trail.
Clear and Obvious
The trail is heavily trafficked and extremely well-marked. Cairns mark the route above treeline. It is nearly impossible to get lost.
Moderate Elevation Gain
At 3,000 feet of gain, this is on the lower end for 14ers. The grade is steady but never overly steep.
Shared Trailhead
Since this trailhead serves both Grays and Torreys, there are always other hikers around. You are never alone, which provides both safety and motivation.
Escape Options
If you start feeling altitude sickness or fatigue, you can turn around at any point. The trail is straightforward, making retreat simple.
When to Go
Best Time of Year
July through early September
These months offer the safest conditions for beginners with minimal snow coverage and the most predictable weather patterns. Mid-July to mid-August is peak season with the best trail conditions.
Caution: Attempting this peak in June or late September significantly increases difficulty due to snow conditions. Winter attempts require mountaineering skills.
Time of Day
Starting early allows you to summit by noon and descend before afternoon thunderstorms. It also improves your chances of parking.
Sunrise Bonus: Starting early means you might catch sunrise from the trail. Absolutely magical.
Weather Considerations
Colorado mountain weather is unpredictable. Check forecasts but be prepared for rapid changes. Afternoon thunderstorms with lightning are the biggest danger. The saying goes: be off the summit by noon. Take this seriously.
Pro Tips
Consider the Combo
If you are feeling strong at the Grays summit, you can continue to Torreys Peak via a connecting ridge. It only adds 1 mile round trip and 600 feet of gain. Bagging two 14ers in one day is an incredible accomplishment.
Related Peaks
Torreys Peak
Shares the same trailhead
Torreys is often climbed together with Grays. The two peaks are connected by a scenic ridge. Torreys is slightly shorter at 14,275 feet and equally beginner-friendly.
Learn MoreGrays & Torreys Combo
Two summits in one day
The most popular 14er combo in Colorado. From the Grays summit, continue along the ridge to Torreys Peak. Total stats: 8.25 miles, 3,600 feet gain, 6-8 hours.
Learn MoreAdditional Resources
AllTrails - Grays and Torreys Peak
Trail map, photos, and recent reviews from other hikers
14ers.com - Grays Peak
Detailed route description and trip reports
Colorado Avalanche Information Center
Winter conditions and avalanche forecasts (if attempting off-season)
Mountain Weather Forecast
Hour-by-hour summit forecast
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