Wetterhorn and Uncompahgre

While Matterhorn Creek doesn't have a bathroom or any amenities, it is a proper TH, well signed and with a fair amount of parking. A small field next to the dirt lot provides room for around 5-6 tents. From the trailhead, summit Wetterhorn Peak. From the summit, head back down to the Matterhorn Creek trailhead, or head back to the junction with Ridge Stock Driveway to hike Uncompahgre Peak as well. Some hikers may opt to cut across the basin off of Wetterhorn Peak Trail to link up with Ridge Stock Driveway instead of going all the way back down to the junction. Depending on USFS signage and wildlife protection, this may not be an option. If the area is open, it shaves off around 0.75 miles and 300-400 ft of gain. Hike across a field, crossing some streams before coming to Ridge Stock Driveway. If heading back to the trail junction, turn left for Uncompahgre Peak following signs for Ridge Stock Driveway. Hike along a stream on clear trail, mostly singletrack but in some parts a rocky dirt road. The going here is flat and the views are excellent. Passing through alpine tundra, continue N/NE for about a mile. Uncompahgre will be clearly visible, as will the trail. Angle to the right, hop streams for about 2 more miles on flat to slightly downhill terrain. It's frustrating losing elevation here, especially while Uncompahgre is just to your left. There are gullies you can scramble up, but these are composed of loose, steep, dangerous talus. While they may save you elevation gain, they are unlikely to save you time or energy. Sticking to the trail is recommended.A little over 8 miles into your hike, you'll finally turn off the Ridge Stock Driveway, angling left up a switchback and reaching the clear Uncompahgre Peak Trail. Summit Uncompahgre Peak. Congratulations on a hell of a day. This is one of the more impressive 14er doubles commonly done. The area still has plenty to offer: nearby 13er Matterhorn Peak lies between Wetterhorn and Uncompahgre and adds about 2 miles and 1,500 ft of elevation. Those trying to summit all the 14ers may want to check out Handies, Redcloud, and Sunshine while near Lake City.

Translated from Swiss German, "Wetterhorn" means "weather peak." The name fits. Like its European namesake, this part of the state is prone to sudden weather changes, as discovered by all too many hikers.