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- UN 13556
13,556 ft · Sawatch Range, Colorado
UN 13556
UN 13556 is a 13,556 ft peak in the Sawatch Range, Colorado. The standard route is the UN 13556 via Independence Lake: 6 mi, 2,040 ft of gain, Class 3.
UN 13556 at a glance
- Elevation13,556 ft4,131 m
- RouteUN 13556 via Independence LakeClass 3
- Distance6 mi2,040 ft gain
- Time5 – 7 hrsHard effort
- SeasonJul – Sep
- RangeSawatch RangeColorado
Climbing the UN 13556 via Independence Lake
UN 13556 sits in the Sawatch Range. The usual ascent is UN 13556 via Independence Lake, rated Class 3. Plan about 6 miles round-trip with roughly 2,040 ft of gain from about 11,516 ft. 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. Carry extra water above treeline.
Gear and hazards
What to bring
Backpack (25–35 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 UN 13556
Colorado 13ersPeaks near UN 13556
Frequently asked questions
How tall is UN 13556?
UN 13556 is 13,556 feet (4,131 m) tall. It is in the Sawatch Range, Colorado. It is also known as UN 13,556.
How does UN 13556 rank among the Colorado 13ers?
At 13,556 feet, UN 13556 is the 163rd highest of the 582 Colorado 13ers. The highest is Grizzly Peak.
How hard is it to climb UN 13556?
The UN 13556 via Independence Lake is Class 3, which means scrambling, where you use your hands to climb and a fall could be serious. Yak rates the overall effort hard: 6 miles with 2,040 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to climb UN 13556?
Most people take 5 – 7 hours round trip on the UN 13556 via Independence Lake, covering 6 miles with 2,040 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.
Is UN 13556 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 UN 13556?
It is a good idea. Loose rock and rockfall are common on the UN 13556 via Independence Lake, so a helmet is on the gear list.
Will you get altitude sickness on UN 13556?
You might. Most people feel the altitude above 8,000 feet, and UN 13556 reaches 13,556 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 UN 13556?
Early. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, so aim to be off the summit and the exposed upper mountain by early afternoon.
When is the best time to climb UN 13556?
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 UN 13556 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