Eddiesville Loop

Eddiesville Loop is a 16-mile route that traverses the La Garita Wilderness in the Gunnison National Forest, north of Creede, Colorado. It begins at the Eddiesville Trailhead off of Forest Road 794 and makes a clockwise loop combining the Colorado Trail (CT)/Continental Divide Trail (CDT) with the Steward Creek Trail #740. It ascends gradually for the first 6.60 miles, followed by a steep and rocky segment to the top of San Luis Peak (14,014'). In addition to being one of the Colorado 14er's (peaks that rise over 14,000 feet) San Luis Peak is the highest point in the La Garita Range, a subrange of the Rocky Mountains. This is a high alpine route that stays between approximately 10,309' and 14,014' with an overall elevation gain of around 3,660'. It features alpine forests, wildflower filled meadows, talus slopes, breathtaking mountain vistas, and views overlooking the Rio Grande Valley and the San Luis Valley. Despite the fact that climbing 14'ers is a popular outdoor activity in Colorado, San Luis Peak is one of the lesser visited mountains, which provides more opportunities for peaceful solitude. If you are looking to avoid the snow, summer is the best time of year and the hiking season runs from about June-September. In the summer, afternoon thunderstorms are frequent, and lightning is particularly dangerous at higher elevations. Before heading out, check the weather conditions and have a plan in case bad weather strikes.