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- Mount Garfield
13,087 ft · San Juan Mountains, Colorado
Mount Garfield
Mount Garfield is a 13,087 ft peak in the San Juan Mountains, Colorado. The standard route is the Garfield South Ridge: 26 mi, 6,650 ft of gain, Class 3.
Mount Garfield at a glance
- Elevation13,087 ft3,988 m
- RouteGarfield South RidgeClass 3
- Distance26 mi6,650 ft gain
- Time20 – 22 hrsVery Hard effort
- SeasonJul – Sep
- RangeSan Juan MountainsColorado
Climbing the Garfield South Ridge
Mount Garfield sits in the San Juan Mountains. The usual ascent is Garfield South Ridge, rated Class 3. Plan about 26 miles round-trip with roughly 6,650 ft of gain from about 10,630 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 (55–75 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 Mount Garfield
Colorado 13ersPeaks near Mount Garfield
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Mount Garfield?
Mount Garfield is 13,087 feet (3,988 m) tall. It is in the San Juan Mountains, Colorado. It is also known as Garfield, Mt.
How does Mount Garfield rank among the Colorado 13ers?
At 13,087 feet, Mount Garfield is the 523rd highest of the 582 Colorado 13ers. The highest is Grizzly Peak.
How hard is it to climb Mount Garfield?
The Garfield South 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: 26 miles with 6,650 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to climb Mount Garfield?
Most people take 20 – 22 hours round trip on the Garfield South Ridge, covering 26 miles with 6,650 feet of elevation gain. That is a long day, so start before dawn and set a turnaround time.
Is Mount Garfield 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 Mount Garfield?
It is a good idea. Loose rock and rockfall are common on the Garfield South Ridge, so a helmet is on the gear list.
Will you get altitude sickness on Mount Garfield?
You might. Most people feel the altitude above 8,000 feet, and Mount Garfield reaches 13,087 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 Mount Garfield?
Early. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, so aim to be off the summit and the exposed upper mountain by early afternoon. At 20 – 22 hours round trip, many parties start in the dark.
When is the best time to climb Mount Garfield?
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 Mount Garfield 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