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- Half Peak
13,866 ft · San Juan Mountains, Colorado
Half Peak
Half Peak is a 13,866 ft peak in the San Juan Mountains, Colorado. The standard route is the Northwest Ridge: 12 mi, 4,500 ft of gain, Class 3.
Half Peak at a glance
- Elevation13,866 ft4,226 m
- RouteNorthwest RidgeClass 3
- Distance12 mi4,500 ft gain
- Time10 – 12 hrsVery Hard effort
- SeasonJul – Sep
- RangeSan Juan MountainsColorado
Climbing the Northwest Ridge
From Lake City, drive south on Highway 149 to the Lake San Cristobal turnoff, then follow CR 30 past the lake to the Cataract Gulch Trailhead; passenger cars can usually make it. Hike the Cataract Gulch trail past waterfalls to Cataract Lake and the broad tundra on the Continental Divide, then follow Half Peak's northwest ridge to a brief Class 3 section near the flat summit. Remote and long. Many parties camp near Cataract Lake. Start early for storms. Bring layers and plenty of water for the open tundra, and watch for lingering snow on the ridge.
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
- Steep exposure
- Loose rock
- Remote location
- Storms
Quests with Half Peak
Colorado Centennials
Colorado 13ersPeaks near Half Peak
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Half Peak?
Half Peak is 13,866 feet (4,226 m) tall. It is in the San Juan Mountains, Colorado.
How does Half Peak rank among the Colorado Centennials?
At 13,866 feet, Half Peak is the 79th highest of the 100 Colorado Centennials. The highest is Mount Elbert.
How hard is it to climb Half Peak?
The Northwest 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 4,500 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to climb Half Peak?
Most people take 10 – 12 hours round trip on the Northwest Ridge, covering 12 miles with 4,500 feet of elevation gain. That is a long day, so start before dawn and set a turnaround time.
Is Half 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 Half Peak?
It is a good idea. Loose rock and rockfall are common on the Northwest Ridge, so a helmet is on the gear list.
Will you get altitude sickness on Half Peak?
You might. Most people feel the altitude above 8,000 feet, and Half Peak reaches 13,866 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 Half Peak?
Early. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, so aim to be off the summit and the exposed upper mountain by early afternoon. At 10 – 12 hours round trip, many parties start in the dark.
When is the best time to climb Half 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 Half 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