West Ridge
Mt. Blue Sky · 14,264' · Rank #14
Class 2 Standard Route
17
miles RT
5,600
ft gain
Class 2
difficulty
9-12
hours
Trail Map
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Route Details
- Distance
- 17 miles RT
- Elevation Gain
- 5,600'
- Difficulty
- Class 2
- Exposure
- Low
- Typical Time
- 9-12 hours
Trailhead
- Name
- Echo Lake Trailhead
- Starting Elevation
- 10,600'
- Coordinates
- 39.6580°N, 105.6040°W
Parking & Access
- Parking
- Free Lot 50-100 spots
- Fee
- Free
Weak
Free parking near Echo Lake picnic area and Echo Lake Lodge. Wilderness permit required (self-issue at kiosk).
Route Description
The wilderness route avoiding the summit road crowds. The trail passes beautiful Chicago Lakes before climbing to the summit plateau. Class 2 terrain throughout. A much more rewarding experience than driving up.
Gear & Preparation
Long day hike - start early. The Chicago Lakes area is spectacular. Mountain goats are common near the summit. You can arrange a car shuttle to the summit if desired for a one-way hike.