Humboldt Peak

Salida

One of the least technical peaks in the Sangres.

Hiking Severe

Distance: 20 km
Ascent: 1.3 km
Descent: 1.3 km
Duration: 6-7 hrs

Low Point: 3 km
High Point: 4.3 km
Gradient: 20˚

The 14,000-foot peaks in the Sangre de Cristo Range are renowned for some of the most technical 14er climbing in the state of Colorado. In contrast to the more technical routes, Humboldt Peak only demands a Class 2 climb to access its 14,064-foot summit.

Humboldt Summit Sunrise Photo: Hayden Boyle

Description

Consequently, "Humboldt Peak serves as the 'introduction to the Sangre de Cristo' mountains for many a peak hunter,” according to Kiefer and Sarah Simon on SummitPost.org. They claim that the standard route is a perfect introduction to 14er hiking.

While it might not be technical, the standard route, mapped here, requires 12 and a half miles of hiking and over 4,300 feet of elevation gain (and descent). To help you enjoy this gorgeous terrain, ensure that you’ve trained adequately for this big day out in the mountains!

The approach trail climbs up a mellow valley before reaching the bottom of the basin. From the basin, turn right and begin climbing in earnest to reach the ridgeline.

Once on the ridge, keep turning right and follow the ridge past a false summit to the summit of Humboldt.

While you’ll have to conquer some scree fields and rock blocks on this hike, overall this is a delightfully non-technical mountain climb!

Sources: https://www.summitpost.org/humboldt-peak/150439 https://www.14ers.com/route.php?route=humb1&peak=The+Crestones+and+Humboldt+Peak

Difficulty

Severe

Hiking challenging trails where simple scrambling, with the occasional use of the hands, is a distinct possibility. The trails are often filled with all manner of obstacles both small and large, and the hills are very steep. Obstacles and challenges are often unexpected and can be unpredictable.