Huron Peak
14,006 feet
Secluded Collegiate Peak offering solitude and stunning alpine terrain
Why Huron Peak?
Huron Peak is a secluded gem in the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness. At 14,006 feet, this Class 2 route offers incredible solitude compared to the more popular Sawatch Range fourteeners. From the upper Lake Ann Trailhead, which requires four-wheel drive, the hike covers 7 miles with 3,500 feet of elevation gain. If you park at the lower South Winfield Trailhead instead, plan on 11 miles and 3,800 feet. The trail climbs through beautiful pine forest before emerging into a stunning alpine basin. The final approach involves Class 2 terrain up the northwest slopes with some boulder field navigation. The summit offers panoramic views of the Collegiate Peaks.
Getting to the Trailhead
South Winfield and Lake Ann Trailhead
- Trailhead Elevation:
- 10,575 feet at the upper four-wheel-drive trailhead
- From Denver:
- About 160 miles (about 3 hours 15 minutes)
Directions
From Buena Vista, drive 14.5 miles north on US 24 and turn left onto County Road 390, a dirt road. Drive 12 miles to Winfield and turn left. The lower, two-wheel-drive trailhead in South Winfield is 0.1 miles ahead. High-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicles can continue on the rough, narrow road for about 2 more miles to the Lake Ann Trailhead at the end of the road.
Road Access
County Road 390 is a two-wheel-drive dirt road to Winfield. About 0.4 miles past Winfield, the road turns into a rough, narrow four-wheel-drive track that requires good clearance. Sport utility vehicles with good clearance can usually make it when the road is dry. The road is closed in winter near 9,200 feet, many miles below the trailhead.
Parking Information
- There is plenty of parking and camping at the lower two-wheel-drive trailhead and along the road. The upper four-wheel-drive trailhead has less space, but you will find many pull-offs along the upper road. There are no restrooms.
- Capacity: Large lower lot, with limited space at the upper trailhead
- There is no parking fee at this trailhead.
Pro Tip: Huron is less crowded than the more popular Sawatch Range peaks. Arrive by 6:30 a.m. to 7:00 a.m.
The Route
Huron Peak via Northwest Slopes
Class 2
This is an out-and-back route with steady climbing through forest, followed by alpine basin hiking, and finishing on Class 2 terrain. The trail is clear, but the upper basin requires some attention to the route. From the upper trailhead, you will gain 3,500 feet over approximately 3.5 miles to the summit.
The trail climbs steadily through pine forest on a well-defined path with gradual switchbacks. The forest setting is beautiful and quiet. The trail is clear and well-maintained through this section.
You will emerge into an alpine basin with incredible views. The trail becomes rockier and steeper, and wildflowers bloom here in July. Views of the surrounding Collegiate Peaks open up as you climb. The basin is beautiful and remote.
The route climbs Class 2 terrain on the upper northwest slopes. You will cross rocky ground where you may need your hands for balance. Cairns help, but pay attention to the route. The final summit push is steep, so take care with foot placement on loose rock. The 360-degree views at the top are stunning.
The summit of Huron Peak offers stunning views of the entire Collegiate Peaks range. The remote location provides incredible solitude. On clear days, you can see Mount Elbert, Mount Massive, and the rest of the Sawatch Range. Sign the register and celebrate reaching one of Colorado's more secluded fourteeners.
Descent
Retrace your route down. Be careful on the Class 2 section, and pace yourself on the long descent through the forest. Plan on about 2 to 3 hours for the descent.
What's Special About Huron Peak?
Less Crowded
The rough access road and remote location keep crowds away. You will have a much more solitary experience than on popular Sawatch Range peaks like Mount Elbert or Mount Harvard.
Clear Trail
The trail is well-defined through the forest and basin. While the upper section requires some route-finding, cairns mark the way.
Beautiful Setting
The pine forest approach and stunning alpine basin make this one of the most scenic 14er hikes. The wildflowers in July are spectacular.
Manageable Class 2
While the upper slopes involve Class 2 terrain, the route is not overly exposed. The rocky sections require careful foot placement but are well within reach for fit beginners.
Moderate Length
At 7 miles round trip from the upper trailhead, this is a moderate length hike. It is long enough to build endurance without being overwhelming.
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
The moderate length allows for a slightly later start than longer peaks, but you still want to be off the summit before noon for lightning safety. Start earlier if you park at the lower trailhead.
Sunrise Bonus: Starting at dawn provides cooler temperatures for the forest climb and beautiful light as you emerge into the alpine basin.
Weather Considerations
The Sawatch Range is known for afternoon thunderstorms, especially in July and August. The exposed slopes and summit offer no shelter. Be off the summit by noon. The remote location means help is far away if something goes wrong. Carry extra layers, because the wind can be fierce above treeline.
Pro Tips
Practice Class 2 Skills
If this is your first Class 2 peak, practice scrambling on easier terrain first. The boulder field requires confidence with hand use and route-finding.
Know Your Vehicle
The road from South Winfield to the Lake Ann Trailhead is rough and narrow. If you are not confident in your vehicle, park at the lower trailhead and plan for 11 miles and 3,800 feet of gain.
Embrace the Solitude
Unlike crowded Front Range peaks, you may have Huron Peak nearly to yourself. This is a special experience, so enjoy the wilderness solitude.
Related Peaks
Mount Elbert
Nearby Sawatch Range peak
Mount Elbert at 14,438 feet is the highest peak in Colorado. It has easier access and a Class 1 trail, but it is much more crowded.
Learn MoreMount Bierstadt
Similar Class 2 difficulty
Mount Bierstadt at 14,066 feet offers a similar Class 2 boulder field with easier access from Denver.
Learn MoreAdditional Resources
AllTrails: Huron Peak Trail
See the trail map, photos, and recent reviews from other hikers.
14ers.com: Huron Peak
Read the detailed route description and trip reports.
Colorado Avalanche Information Center
Check winter conditions and avalanche forecasts if you plan an off-season attempt.
Mountain Weather Forecast
Check the hour-by-hour summit forecast.
Ready to Summit Huron Peak?
Prepare for your summit with our 13-week training program.