Huron Peak via South Winfield Trailhead

Starting from the lower trailhead near Winfield along Chaffee County Road 390, this route begins with a 2-mile walk along Forest Service Road 382. This initial road walk is required for standard passenger cars and lower-clearance vehicles that cannot navigate the rough road to the upper trailhead, adding approximately 4 miles round-trip and 300 feet of elevation gain to the hike. From the upper trailhead, the well-signed trail heads south into the forest for about 0.5 miles. The path then turns right, crosses a small stream, and climbs steeply through a series of switchbacks. After roughly 1 mile of hiking beyond the upper trailhead, the terrain eases and contours south, providing clear views of the Three Apostles peaks. The trail soon swings east and exits the tree line into the western portion of a high alpine basin, offering direct views of Huron Peak. Continuing across the basin, the trail heads south-southeast up the upper slopes of the mountain. A final series of switchbacks leads to the north ridge, about 500 feet below the summit. The route then climbs a steep, rocky ridge crest to reach the 14,003-foot summit. Afternoon thunderstorms are the dominant hazard above treeline, as on any Sawatch 14er; start early and be off the upper basin by early afternoon in summer.

The road in passes two 19th century mining camps. The Vicksburg Mining Camp had a population of 800 while the Winfield Mining Camp housed over 1500 people. Historic plaques and signs are posted at both locations for self-guided tours.