South Face
Crestone Peak · 14,294' · Rank #7
Class 3 Standard Route
14
miles RT
5,700
ft gain
Class 3
difficulty
10-14
hours
Trail Map
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Route Details
- Distance
- 14 miles RT
- Elevation Gain
- 5,700'
- Difficulty
- Class 3
- Exposure
- High
- Typical Time
- 10-14 hours
Trailhead
- Name
- South Colony Lakes Trailhead
- Starting Elevation
- 8,800'
- Coordinates
- 37.9403°N, 105.5381°W
Parking & Access
- Parking
- Free Lot 20-50 spots
- Fee
- Free
- Vehicle
- 4WD/High Clearance
No Service
Lower 2WD at 8,800 ft (~20 vehicles). Upper 4WD at 9,950 ft (~25 vehicles). Road gated at upper lot since 2009.
Route Description
A serious route requiring Class 3 climbing with exposure. From South Colony Lakes, climb the Red Couloir to the upper south face. The route involves intricate route-finding through ledge systems. Most parties camp at the lakes.
Gear & Preparation
Helmet mandatory. The Red Couloir holds snow late - bring ice axe and crampons early season. This is a serious peak requiring solid scrambling skills. The Crestone Needle traverse is Class 4+.