FATMAP by Strava

Wilson Peak

Climb the peak pictured on every can of Coors beer!

Hiking Extreme

Distance
15 km
Ascent
1.2 km
Descent
1.2 km
Duration
4-5 hrs
Low Point
3.2 km
High Point
4.3 km
Gradient
17˚
Wilson Peak Map

Note: this route warrants a "Moderate" Mountaineering difficulty rating.

Description

Wilson Peak may be best-known for "figuring prominently on all the Coors labels and products," according to Kiefer on SummitPost.org. This mighty summit soars to 14,023 feet (or 14,016 feet—sources are inconsistent) above sea level and boasts a prominence of 856 feet above the nearby mountains. The prominent mountain features an impressive visual profile, making it the perfect mountain peak to represent the original Colorado beer.

To reach the summit for yourself, head toward the primary climb via the Rock of Ages approach trail. The route mapped here will guide you along this lengthy approach, through the basin, and eventually reaching the Rock of Ages Mine and Rock of Ages Saddle.

From the Rock of Ages Saddle, you'll "Cross the narrow saddle on a good trail and continue across a rugged slope to reach the small saddle between Gladstone Peak and Wilson Peak," according to 14ers.com. Now, the climb gets interesting. You can either scramble north and descend slightly to reach an easier Class 2 climb, or you can follow the direct approach for a more difficult Class 3 climb.

The rest of the climb follows the ridge, climbing and descending a false summit along the way. Much of the rest of the climb is in challenging Class 3 terrain, at high elevation, and with substantial exposure. Ensure you're up for the task before you attempt this difficult climb!

Once you've savored the views from Wilson Peak, return the way you came.

Sources: https://www.summitpost.org/wilson-peak/150382 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/WilsonPeak https://www.14ers.com/route.php?route=wils1&peak=Mt.+Wilson%2C+Wilson+Peak%2C+and+El+Diente+Peak

Difficulty

Extreme

Scrambling up mountains and along technical trails with moderate fall exposure. Handholds are necessary to navigate the trail in its entirety, although they are not necessary at all times. Some obstacles can be very large and difficult to navigate, and the grades can often be near-vertical. The challenge of the trail and the steepness of the grade results in very strenuous hiking. Hikes of this difficulty blur the lines between "hiking" and "climbing".

High Exposure

3 out of 4

Some trail sections have exposed ledges or steep ascents/descents where falling could cause serious injury.

Remoteness

4 out of 4

In the high mountains or remote conditions, all individuals must be completely autonomous in every situation.

Best time to visit

between July and September

Features

  • Alpine
  • Summit Hike

Similar routes nearby