Plan with
Confidence
Regional Classic
A must do route for the area handpicked by local experts.
The road to the trailhead is a challenging drive, and seasonal closures are often in effect closer to Lake City than they are to the trailhead. The land manager requests all dogs be leashed. What few dogs you see will likely be unleashed.
Path Type
There and Back
From the American Basin trailhead, hike east up an excellent trail with the odd rock here and there. Head south up some switchbacks, passing between rock patches on a clear trail. Angle toward the right end of the basin before coming to a lake on your right at 13,100 ft. This is an awesome spot for a dip on the way back down. Hike about 300 ft up on some more switchbacks. Continue across some talus to the left, gaining only a little ground before returning to grassy slopes. Hike up some steep switchbacks to reach the saddle at 13,500 ft between Handies Peak to your left and Point 13,588 ft to your right. From here, simply hike up on the excellent trail with the steepest pitch along a gravelly trail right below the summit. From the top, enjoy the excellent San Juan views. Don't forget to stop for a swim on the way back down!
All Clear
All Clear
All Clear
All Clear
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