- …
- Yak
- Quests
- Colorado Centennials
- Gladstone Peak
13,923 ft · San Miguel Mountains, Colorado
Gladstone Peak
Gladstone Peak is a 13,923 ft peak in the San Miguel Mountains, Colorado. The standard route is the North Ridge: 12 mi, 4,320 ft of gain, Class 3.
Gladstone Peak at a glance
- Elevation13,923 ft4,243 m
- RouteNorth RidgeClass 3
- Distance12 mi4,320 ft gain
- Time11 – 13 hrsVery Hard effort
- SeasonJul – Sep
- RangeSan Miguel MountainsColorado
Climbing the North Ridge
From Highway 145 between Placerville and Telluride, turn south on South Fork Road (FR 625), then right on Sunshine Mesa Road (FR 623) to the trailhead; passenger cars can usually make it. Hike into Bilk Basin toward Wilson Peak, then climb toward the Wilson saddle and scramble Gladstone's north ridge on Class 3 rock. The peak is known for some of the loosest rock in the San Juans, and rockfall is a serious hazard. Helmets essential. Start before dawn for storms. Mount Wilson and Wilson Peak share the basin.
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
- Loose rock
- Rockfall
- Steep exposure
- Route-finding difficulty
- Storms
Quests with Gladstone Peak
Colorado Centennials
Colorado 13ersPeaks near Gladstone Peak
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Gladstone Peak?
Gladstone Peak is 13,923 feet (4,243 m) tall. It is in the San Miguel Mountains, Colorado.
How does Gladstone Peak rank among the Colorado Centennials?
At 13,923 feet, Gladstone Peak is the 66th highest of the 100 Colorado Centennials. The highest is Mount Elbert.
How hard is it to climb Gladstone Peak?
The North 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: 12 miles with 4,320 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to climb Gladstone Peak?
Most people take 11 – 13 hours round trip on the North Ridge, covering 12 miles with 4,320 feet of elevation gain. That is a long day, so start before dawn and set a turnaround time.
Is Gladstone 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 Gladstone Peak?
It is a good idea. Loose rock and rockfall are common on the North Ridge, so a helmet is on the gear list.
Will you get altitude sickness on Gladstone Peak?
You might. Most people feel the altitude above 8,000 feet, and Gladstone Peak reaches 13,923 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 Gladstone Peak?
Early. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, so aim to be off the summit and the exposed upper mountain by early afternoon. At 11 – 13 hours round trip, many parties start in the dark.
When is the best time to climb Gladstone 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 Gladstone 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