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- Wilson Peak
14,017 ft · San Miguel Mountains, Colorado
Wilson Peak
Wilson Peak is a 14,017 ft peak in the San Miguel Mountains, Colorado. The standard route is the Southwest Ridge: 10 mi, 3,900 ft of gain, Class 3.
Wilson Peak at a glance
- Elevation14,017 ft4,272 m
- RouteSouthwest RidgeClass 3
- Distance10 mi3,900 ft gain
- Time6 – 9 hrsVery Hard effort
- SeasonJul – Sep
- RangeSan Miguel MountainsColorado
Climbing the Southwest Ridge
From Telluride, Colorado, take Highway 145 south and turn onto Silver Pick Road to the Rock of Ages trailhead. High clearance helpful. This iconic summit is visible from Telluride and appears on the Coors beer logo. The exposed final ridge requires careful navigation with Class 3 terrain and loose rock. Often combined with other Wilson group peaks for ambitious parties. Helmets recommended. Start early for weather. The approach offers beautiful views of Navajo Basin. One of Colorado's most photogenic 14ers. Only for experienced scramblers comfortable with exposure.
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
Wilson Peak on Yak
Climbers have shared 8 climbs of Wilson Peak on Yak. Read their trip reports and recent conditions in the app
Quests with Wilson Peak
Colorado 14ers
Lower 48 14ers
Colorado CentennialsPeaks near Wilson Peak
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Wilson Peak?
Wilson Peak is 14,017 feet (4,272 m) tall. It is in the San Miguel Mountains, Colorado.
How does Wilson Peak rank among the Colorado 14ers?
At 14,017 feet, Wilson Peak is the 54th highest of the 58 Colorado 14ers. The highest is Mount Elbert.
How hard is it to climb Wilson Peak?
The Southwest 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: 10 miles with 3,900 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to climb Wilson Peak?
Most people take 6 – 9 hours round trip on the Southwest Ridge, covering 10 miles with 3,900 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.
Is Wilson 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 Wilson Peak?
It is a good idea. Loose rock and rockfall are common on the Southwest Ridge, so a helmet is on the gear list.
Will you get altitude sickness on Wilson Peak?
You might. Most people feel the altitude above 8,000 feet, and Wilson Peak reaches 14,017 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 Wilson 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 Wilson 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 Wilson Peak?
The Southwest Ridge starts at about 10,360 feet, roughly 3,657 feet below the summit.
What routes go up Wilson Peak?
The standard route is the Southwest Ridge. Other routes include the Combo: El Diente Peak, Mount Wilson and Wilson Peak.
Climb Wilson 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