Yak logoYAK
  1. …
  2. Yak
  3. Quests
  4. Colorado Centennials
  5. Phoenix Peak

13,904 ft · San Juan Mountains, Colorado

Phoenix Peak

Phoenix Peak is a 13,904 ft peak in the San Juan Mountains, Colorado. The standard route is the South Ridge and Slopes: 9 mi, 3,585 ft of gain, Class 2.

Plan this climbView Colorado Centennials
Phoenix Peak in the San Juan Mountains, Colorado

Phoenix Peak at a glance

  • Elevation13,904 ft4,237 m
  • RouteSouth Ridge and SlopesClass 2
  • Distance9 mi3,585 ft gain
  • Time6 – 8 hrsHard effort
  • SeasonJun – Sep
  • RangeSan Juan MountainsColorado

Climbing the South Ridge and Slopes

From Creede, drive north on county roads up East Willow Creek toward the La Garita Wilderness; passenger cars reach the lower trailhead and 4WD saves about 3 miles. Hike north up the drainage on old roads and trail, then climb Phoenix's south ridge and slopes on Class 2 tundra with rockier ground near the summit. The area is isolated and sees few people, so carry a satellite communicator. La Garita Peak is a common add-on. Start early for afternoon storms. Camping near the upper trailhead is limited.

Gear and hazards

What to bring

  • Backpack (30–40 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

What to watch for

  • Remote location
  • Storms
  • High winds
  • Spotty cell reception

Quests with Phoenix Peak

Peaks near Phoenix Peak

  1. Organ Mtn

    Organ Mtn

    13,808 ft · 4.1 mi away

  2. San Luis Peak

    San Luis Peak

    14,014 ft · 5.0 mi away

  3. Baldy Alto

    Baldy Alto

    13,703 ft · 5.6 mi away

  4. Stewart Peak

    Stewart Peak

    13,988 ft · 6.8 mi away

Frequently asked questions

How tall is Phoenix Peak?

Phoenix Peak is 13,904 feet (4,237 m) tall. It is in the San Juan Mountains, Colorado.

How does Phoenix Peak rank among the Colorado Centennials?

At 13,904 feet, Phoenix Peak is the 73rd highest of the 100 Colorado Centennials. The highest is Mount Elbert.

How hard is it to hike Phoenix Peak?

The South Ridge and Slopes is Class 2, which means off-trail hiking with some use of your hands for balance. Yak rates the overall effort hard: 9 miles with 3,585 feet of elevation gain.

How long does it take to hike Phoenix Peak?

Most people take 6 – 8 hours round trip on the South Ridge and Slopes, covering 9 miles with 3,585 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.

Can a beginner hike Phoenix Peak?

The South Ridge and Slopes needs no climbing skills, but it is a hard day: 9 miles with 3,585 feet of elevation gain. Build up on shorter hikes first, start early and carry plenty of water and layers.

Will you get altitude sickness on Phoenix Peak?

You might. Most people feel the altitude above 8,000 feet, and Phoenix Peak reaches 13,904 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 hiking Phoenix Peak?

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 hike Phoenix Peak?

The usual hiking window is June to September. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.

Climb Phoenix 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

App StoreGoogle Play