Redcloud and Sunshine Peaks Hike

Route Description for Redcloud and Sunshine Peaks Hike

If you are after a challenging summit adventure with nearly unparalleled views in the San Juan Mountains, then the Redcloud and Sunshine Peaks Hike will be the perfect route for you. This tough day in the mountains will see you traverse the summits of two fourteeners, making for an unforgettable experience in Colorado.

Setting out from the parking area, you will make your way to the northeast as the trail gently climbs uphill for the first half of the hike. Here, you will eventually exit the cover of the forest and continue uphill as the path leads through a beautifully scenic basin. The views here will become increasingly beautiful, as you climb a switchback trail leading up to the saddle.

After pausing for a quick break, you will continue along a ridge to the southwest, traversing the sharp switchback trail and false summit to arrive at the picturesque summit of Redcloud Peak. At this point, you will continue on to the south along another saddle that extends roughly 1.6 km to the summit of Sunshine Peak. The terrain here features some flat portions and steep ones, but is not overly difficult to traverse. Once you are at the summit of Sunshine Peak, take some time to appreciate the views from your second fourteener of the day. From here, you can head back along the same trail or follow the alternate route leading down the opposite slope that will eventually take you back into the same basin.