Humbolt Peak: West Ridge

Humboldt Peak is a 14,000+ foot mountain located in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. This peak is most commonly accessed via Humboldt's West Ridge. This out and back hike is 16.2 miles and gains 5,479 feet of elevation. This hike starts from the South Colony 2WD Trailhead. There are no amenities at the trailhead. If you have a high clearance, 4WD vehicle, you may be able to make it to the 4WD trailhead and shorten the hike. Begin hiking west on South Colony Road. You will be hiking uphill through coniferous and aspen trees. After 2.1 miles of hiking, you will come to a junction with the Rainbow Trail. Go straight to continue on South Colony Road. Another 0.5 miles will bring you to South Colony Lakes 4WD Trailhead. From here, hike southwest on South Colony Trail. You will be walking uphill on a wide trail parallel to South Colony Creek. After 2.5 miles, you will come to a junction and turn right. Continue uphill for 1 mile to reach the Lower South Colony Lakes. You will now be above the treeline. Another 0.5 miles will bring you to Upper South Colony Lake. Here, you will begin hiking up switchbacks towards Humboldt's West Ridge. After 0.6 miles, you will make it to the West Ridge. Here the trail will be very faint and rocky. Follow the ridge up to the summit. After 0.9 miles on the ridge, you will reach the top of Humboldt Peak. From the summit, you will be able to see the Crestone Peak and Crestone Needle. Many other peaks in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains are visible as well. Once you have taken ample time to enjoy the views, turn around and retrace your steps to return to the trailhead. Humboldt Peak is open for hiking year round. There are no associated fees to hike here. Dogs are allowed on this trail, but they must be on a leash.