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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Hard
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
1,116 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
12.6 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
5.5-7.5h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

Handies Peak from Silver Creek/Grizzly Gulch

Measurement:

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Table of contents

Hiking up to Handies Peak from Silver Creek/Grizzly Gulch is a spectacular adventure that is only meant for experienced hikers, but offers stunning views of the surrounding San Juan Mountains. While out on the trail, you will climb uphill through Grizzly Gulch, before making the final ascent of Handies Peak across some loose rocks for beautifully scenic views of the American Basin. The road leading into the trailhead is a bit rough, and while a normal vehicle can make it in with some caution, it is best to have a 4x4 high clearance vehicle.

Route Description for Handies Peak from Silver Creek/Grizzly Gulch

For experienced adventurers that want to tackle a challenging trail with gorgeous views across the San Juan Mountains Range, the hike to Handies Peak from Silver Creek/Grizzly Gulch will be an amazing route to explore.

Setting out from the trailhead, you will make your way to the southwest to begin climbing uphill through Grizzly Gulch. Here, you will pass through tranquil swathes of woodland landscape and peaceful alpine meadows, before pushing up from the basin and onto a ridge that will take you to the summit of Handies Peak.

Turning your direction to the south, you will make the steep climb up to the summit across a slope covered in loose rock, eventually arriving at the viewpoint to experience the breathtaking scenery across the American Basin and nearby mountain peaks. After pausing for some rest and to revel in the views, carefully descend along the same path to return to the trailhead where you started.

Getting to the Handies Peak from Silver Creek/Grizzly Gulch Trailhead

The starting point for the hike to Handies Peak from Silver Creek/Grizzly Gulch can be found at the Silver Creek/Grizzly Gulch Trailhead on Cinnamon Pass Road.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    No

  • When to do:

    May-September

  • Pets allowed:

    No

  • Family friendly:

    No

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    Moderate

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Handies Peak from Silver Creek/Grizzly Gulch Elevation Graph

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