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13,579 ft · Elk Mountains, Colorado

Clark Peak

Clark Peak is a 13,579 ft peak in the Elk Mountains, Colorado. The standard route is the South-Southeast Ridge: 15 mi, 5,200 ft of gain, Class 3.

Plan this climbView Colorado 13ers
Clark Peak in the Elk Mountains, Colorado

Clark Peak at a glance

  • Elevation13,579 ft4,138 m
  • RouteSouth-Southeast RidgeClass 3
  • Distance15 mi5,200 ft gain
  • Time13 – 15 hrsVery Hard effort
  • SeasonJul – Sep
  • RangeElk MountainsColorado

Climbing the South-Southeast Ridge

Clark Peak sits in the Elk Mountains. The usual ascent is South-Southeast Ridge, rated Class 3. Plan about 15 miles round-trip with roughly 5,200 ft of gain from about 8,400 ft. The trailhead is typically reachable by passenger car. Summer monsoon storms build fast, so start early and be off the summit by early afternoon. Watch for loose rock, route-finding on talus, and brief exposed steps where the terrain steepens. Stats and approach details follow climb13ers.com. A helmet is wise on loose Class 3 sections.

Gear and hazards

What to bring

  • Backpack (35–55 L)
  • Hiking Boots
  • Water
  • Offline Maps
  • Headlamp
  • Satellite Communicator
  • Whistle
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen
  • Sun Hat
  • Midlayer
  • Insulated Jacket
  • Hardshell Jacket
  • Warm Hat
  • Buff
  • Midweight Gloves
  • Trekking Poles
  • GPS Device
  • Power Bank
  • Water Filter
  • First-Aid Kit
  • Emergency Bivy
  • Helmet

What to watch for

  • Storms
  • High altitude
  • Loose rock
  • Steep exposure
  • Route-finding difficulty

Quests with Clark Peak

Peaks near Clark Peak

  1. UN 13067

    UN 13067

    13,067 ft · 0.6 mi away

  2. Capitol Peak

    Capitol Peak

    14,137 ft · 1.1 mi away

  3. Mount Daly

    Mount Daly

    13,323 ft · 1.4 mi away

  4. Snowmass Mountain

    Snowmass Mountain

    14,092 ft · 2.3 mi away

Frequently asked questions

How tall is Clark Peak?

Clark Peak is 13,579 feet (4,138 m) tall. It is in the Elk Mountains, Colorado.

How does Clark Peak rank among the Colorado 13ers?

At 13,579 feet, Clark Peak is the 146th highest of the 582 Colorado 13ers. The highest is Grizzly Peak.

How hard is it to climb Clark Peak?

The South-Southeast Ridge is Class 3, which means scrambling, where you use your hands to climb and a fall could be serious. Yak rates the overall effort very hard: 15 miles with 5,200 feet of elevation gain.

How long does it take to climb Clark Peak?

Most people take 13 – 15 hours round trip on the South-Southeast Ridge, covering 15 miles with 5,200 feet of elevation gain. That is a long day, so start before dawn and set a turnaround time.

Is Clark Peak dangerous to climb?

It has real risks: exposed sections where a fall would be serious, rockfall from loose rock and fast-changing weather. Go with an experienced partner, wear a helmet, test holds before you trust them and turn back if the rock is wet or icy.

Do you need a helmet for Clark Peak?

It is a good idea. Loose rock and rockfall are common on the South-Southeast Ridge, so a helmet is on the gear list.

Will you get altitude sickness on Clark Peak?

You might. Most people feel the altitude above 8,000 feet, and Clark Peak reaches 13,579 feet. Spend a night or two at elevation first, drink plenty of water and turn back if a headache, nausea or dizziness gets worse.

What time should you start climbing Clark Peak?

Early. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, so aim to be off the summit and the exposed upper mountain by early afternoon. At 13 – 15 hours round trip, many parties start in the dark.

When is the best time to climb Clark Peak?

The usual climbing window is July to September. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.

Climb Clark Peak with Yak

Plan your route on a topo map, check the summit forecast, then log your climb and see what is left on your list

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