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- Windom Peak
14,093 ft · San Juan Mountains, Colorado
Windom Peak
Windom Peak is a 14,093 ft peak in the San Juan Mountains, Colorado. The standard route is the West Ridge: 18 mi, 6,000 ft of gain, Class 2.
Windom Peak at a glance
- Elevation14,093 ft4,295 m
- RouteWest RidgeClass 2
- Distance18 mi6,000 ft gain
- Time10 – 12 hrsVery Hard effort
- SeasonJul – Sep
- RangeSan Juan MountainsColorado
Climbing the West Ridge
Take the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad to Needleton, then backpack 6 miles to Chicago Basin. The standard route is Class 2 terrain but the approach logistics make this a committing multi-day objective. Often combined with Sunlight and Eolus for an ambitious Chicago Basin tour. Plan for 2-3 days minimum in the spectacular basin. Train reservations are essential in summer and fill up weeks in advance. Spectacular wildflowers in July. The train ride alone is worth the trip. Remote, beautiful setting in the San Juan Mountains.
Gear and hazards
What to bring
Backpack (25–45 L)
Water
Offline Maps
Headlamp
Satellite Communicator
Emergency Bivy
Whistle
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Hiking Boots
Midlayer
Insulated Jacket
Hardshell Jacket
Warm Hat
Buff
Midweight Gloves
Trekking Poles
Helmet
Rope
Harness
Carabiners
Belay Device
GPS Device
Power Bank
Water Filter
First-Aid Kit
What to watch for
- Steep exposure
- Loose rock
- Storms
- Snow near summit
- Ice near summit
- High altitude
- Altitude sickness
- High winds
- Low visibility
- Remote location
Windom Peak on Yak
Climbers have shared 8 climbs of Windom Peak on Yak. Read their trip reports and recent conditions in the app
Quests with Windom Peak
Colorado 14ers
Lower 48 14ers
Colorado CentennialsPeaks near Windom Peak
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Windom Peak?
Windom Peak is 14,093 feet (4,295 m) tall. It is in the San Juan Mountains, Colorado.
How does Windom Peak rank among the Colorado 14ers?
At 14,093 feet, Windom Peak is the 33rd highest of the 58 Colorado 14ers. The highest is Mount Elbert.
How hard is it to climb Windom Peak?
The West Ridge is Class 2, which means off-trail hiking with some use of your hands for balance. Yak rates the overall effort very hard: 18 miles with 6,000 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to climb Windom Peak?
Most people take 10 – 12 hours round trip on the West Ridge, covering 18 miles with 6,000 feet of elevation gain. That is a long day, so start before dawn and set a turnaround time.
Is Windom 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 rope to climb Windom Peak?
Most parties bring one. The West Ridge is Class 2, and the gear list includes a rope, harness and belay device.
Will you get altitude sickness on Windom Peak?
You might. Most people feel the altitude above 8,000 feet, and Windom Peak reaches 14,093 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 Windom Peak?
Early. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, so aim to be off the summit and the exposed upper mountain by early afternoon. At 10 – 12 hours round trip, many parties start in the dark.
When is the best time to climb Windom 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 Windom Peak?
The West Ridge starts at about 11,010 feet, roughly 3,083 feet below the summit.
Climb Windom 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