South Arapaho Peak via Arapaho Glacier Hike

Route Description for South Arapaho Peak via Arapaho Glacier Hike

Ready for an adventure? The South Arapaho Peak via Arapaho Glacier Trail is a one-of-a-kind hike! This popular trail is the perfect balance of demanding and scenic. This trail is reserved for hikers with experience or those looking to push themselves. With extreme elevation gain, rough terrain and steep segments that require scrambling, this hike is not for the faint of heart. Make sure you are prepared with plenty of water and equipped with sturdy shoes and plenty of layers before setting out on this adventure. Dogs are allowed on this trail, just make sure they stay on leash.

The journey up the South Arapaho Peaks via Arapaho Glacier Hike starts at the Fourth Of July Trailhead. Adventurers will start out on the Arapaho Pass Trail, heading northwest. Continue along the trail as you pass through the woodlands and over the creek. Soon, you will arrive at a junction, here you will find the Fourth of July Mine. Explore the remnants of the mine before turning right and heading east on the Arapaho Glacier Trail. The path will begin to rapidly gain elevation and hikers will have to navigate switchbacks up to the glacier.

Now above the treeline, the exposed terrain will get rocky as you cross the glacier towards the saddle. At the next intersection, stay left. The final segment of the hike is steep and will require hikers to scramble the rock talus before summiting the peak. Use discretion and mind your footing. Soon, you will arrive at the summit. Enjoy the panoramic views of the Indian Peaks and Front Ranges before heading back.

Feeling adventurous? Hikers can choose to add onto their excursion and summit North Arapaho Peak by continuing north. Once you have revelled in the amazing scenery of the South Arapaho Peak, head back down the trail the way you came, retracing your footsteps to the carpark.