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- Wetterhorn Peak
14,021 ft · San Juan Mountains, Colorado
Wetterhorn Peak
Wetterhorn Peak is a 14,021 ft peak in the San Juan Mountains, Colorado. The standard route is the Southeast Ridge: 7 mi, 3,300 ft of gain, Class 3.
Wetterhorn Peak at a glance
- Elevation14,021 ft4,273 m
- RouteSoutheast RidgeClass 3
- Distance7 mi3,300 ft gain
- Time6 – 8 hrsVery Hard effort
- SeasonJul – Sep
- RangeSan Juan MountainsColorado
Climbing the Southeast Ridge
From Lake City, Colorado, take Henson Creek Road south to the Matterhorn Creek trailhead. The approach is moderate with good trail conditions. Fun Class 3 scrambling on solid volcanic rock on the upper mountain. The exposure is manageable for experienced scramblers but can be intimidating for beginners. The distinctive summit pyramid is visible from miles away. Often combined with Matterhorn Peak for strong parties. Good introduction to San Juan 14er climbing. Start early for weather. Nice views of the surrounding Uncompahgre Wilderness.
Gear and hazards
What to bring
Backpack (25–35 L)
Water
Offline Maps
Headlamp
Satellite Communicator
Whistle
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Hiking Boots
Midlayer
Insulated Jacket
Hardshell Jacket
Sun Hat
Warm Hat
Buff
Midweight Gloves
Trekking Poles
Helmet
GPS Device
Power Bank
Water Filter
First-Aid Kit
Emergency Bivy
What to watch for
- Steep exposure
- Loose rock
- Storms
- Snow near summit
- Ice near summit
- High altitude
- Altitude sickness
- High winds
- Low visibility
Wetterhorn Peak on Yak
Climbers have shared 9 climbs of Wetterhorn Peak on Yak. Read their trip reports and recent conditions in the app
Quests with Wetterhorn Peak
Colorado 14ers
Lower 48 14ers
Colorado CentennialsPeaks near Wetterhorn Peak
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Wetterhorn Peak?
Wetterhorn Peak is 14,021 feet (4,273 m) tall. It is in the San Juan Mountains, Colorado.
How does Wetterhorn Peak rank among the Colorado 14ers?
At 14,021 feet, Wetterhorn Peak is the 53rd highest of the 58 Colorado 14ers. The highest is Mount Elbert.
How hard is it to climb Wetterhorn Peak?
The Southeast 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: 7 miles with 3,300 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to climb Wetterhorn Peak?
Most people take 6 – 8 hours round trip on the Southeast Ridge, covering 7 miles with 3,300 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.
Is Wetterhorn 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 Wetterhorn Peak?
It is a good idea. Loose rock and rockfall are common on the Southeast Ridge, so a helmet is on the gear list.
Will you get altitude sickness on Wetterhorn Peak?
You might. Most people feel the altitude above 8,000 feet, and Wetterhorn Peak reaches 14,021 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 Wetterhorn 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 climb Wetterhorn 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.
What is the trailhead elevation for Wetterhorn Peak?
The Southeast Ridge starts at about 10,820 feet, roughly 3,201 feet below the summit.
Climb Wetterhorn 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