- …
- Yak
- Quests
- Colorado 14ers
- Mount Wilson
14,252 ft · San Juan Mountains, Colorado
Mount Wilson
Mount Wilson is a 14,252 ft peak in the San Juan Mountains, Colorado. The standard route is the Southwest Slopes: 12 mi, 4,400 ft of gain, Class 3.
Mount Wilson at a glance
- Elevation14,252 ft4,344 m
- RouteSouthwest SlopesClass 3
- Distance12 mi4,400 ft gain
- Time10 – 13 hrsVery Hard effort
- SeasonJul – Sep
- RangeSan Juan MountainsColorado
Climbing the Southwest Slopes
From Telluride, Colorado, take Highway 145 south and turn onto Silver Pick Road. Follow the rough road to Navajo Lake trailhead. High clearance 4WD recommended. Loose rock and significant exposure on the upper mountain require advanced route-finding skills. The ridge to the summit involves Class 4 terrain with serious drop-offs. Often combined with El Diente via the famous traverse, one of Colorado's most challenging routes. Helmets essential. Start very early (2-3am) for the long day. Only for experienced mountaineers comfortable with serious exposure. One of Colorado's most demanding 14ers.
Gear and hazards
What to bring
Backpack (25–35 L)
Water
Offline Maps
Headlamp
Satellite Communicator
Helmet
Rope
Harness
Carabiners
Belay Device
Whistle
Hiking Boots
Midlayer
Insulated Jacket
Hardshell Jacket
Sun Hat
Warm Hat
Buff
Midweight Gloves
Trekking Poles
GPS Device
Power Bank
Water Filter
First-Aid Kit
Emergency Bivy
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
What to watch for
- Steep exposure
- Loose rock
- Storms
- Snow near summit
- Ice near summit
- Low visibility
- High altitude
- Altitude sickness
- High winds
- Rockfall
Quests with Mount Wilson
Colorado 14ers
Lower 48 14ers
Colorado CentennialsPeaks near Mount Wilson
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Mount Wilson?
Mount Wilson is 14,252 feet (4,344 m) tall. It is in the San Juan Mountains, Colorado.
How does Mount Wilson rank among the Colorado 14ers?
At 14,252 feet, Mount Wilson is the 16th highest of the 58 Colorado 14ers. The highest is Mount Elbert.
How hard is it to climb Mount Wilson?
The Southwest Slopes 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 4,400 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to climb Mount Wilson?
Most people take 10 – 13 hours round trip on the Southwest Slopes, covering 12 miles with 4,400 feet of elevation gain. That is a long day, so start before dawn and set a turnaround time.
Is Mount Wilson 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 rope to climb Mount Wilson?
Most parties bring one. The Southwest Slopes is Class 3, and the gear list includes a rope, harness and belay device.
Will you get altitude sickness on Mount Wilson?
You might. Most people feel the altitude above 8,000 feet, and Mount Wilson reaches 14,252 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 Wilson?
Early. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, so aim to be off the summit and the exposed upper mountain by early afternoon. At 10 – 13 hours round trip, many parties start in the dark.
When is the best time to climb Mount Wilson?
The usual climbing window is July to September. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.
What is the trailhead elevation for Mount Wilson?
The Southwest Slopes starts at about 10,090 feet, roughly 4,162 feet below the summit.
What routes go up Mount Wilson?
The standard route is the Southwest Slopes. Other routes include the Combo: El Diente Peak and Mount Wilson and the Combo: El Diente Peak, Mount Wilson and Wilson Peak.
Climb Mount Wilson 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