The 8 Most Amazing Peaks in Hinsdale County

Hinsdale County, nestled in the San Juan Mountains, features several notable peaks. Among them are Redcloud Peak, known for its distinctive red rock, and Handies Peak, often considered one of the more accessible fourteeners. Engineer Pass, while a mountain pass, offers panoramic views of many of these high peaks, including Uncompahgre Peak.

Handies Peak is widely regarded as one of the most accessible and beginner-friendly fourteeners in Colorado. It features a well-defined trail and is a popular choice for those new to high-altitude hiking, offering spectacular views from the top.

Many peaks in Hinsdale County have volcanic origins. Uncompahgre Peak, for instance, is distinguished by its broad summit plateau and a distinctively flat, tilted rocky pinnacle. Redcloud Peak is aptly named for its distinctive red-colored rock and dirt, especially prominent near the summit, caused by the oxidation of its iron content.

Yes, Handies Peak is considered dog- and family-friendly, with plenty of water sources along its popular American Basin route. This makes it a great option for those looking to enjoy the high-alpine environment with their loved ones.

The summer months, particularly July and August, are generally recommended for hiking the high peaks like Redcloud Peak to avoid snow. It's always best to start your hike early and plan to be off the summit by early afternoon to avoid potential thunderstorms, which are common in the summer.

Uncompahgre Peak offers panoramic views of the surrounding San Juan Mountain range, including Matterhorn and Wetterhorn Peaks. From the summit of Handies Peak, hikers are treated to incredible 360-degree views, often without any visible man-made structures. Wetterhorn Peak also provides impeccable summit views of the Uncompahgre Wilderness.

Yes, Redcloud Peak and Sunshine Peak are often climbed together due to their close proximity. The traverse between them provides an extended and rewarding high-alpine experience with continuous stunning views, making it a popular option for experienced hikers.

Beyond peak bagging, Hinsdale County offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can explore numerous MTB trails, including Nellie Creek Road and the challenging Alpine Loop. There are also many hiking trails, from easy routes like American Basin Trail to more strenuous climbs. For cyclists, there are scenic cycling routes such as Engineer Pass Road and Cinnamon Pass.

Wetterhorn Peak is known for its distinctive and gorgeous profile, offering a combination of pleasant alpine hiking and solid climbing on steeper pitches with stable rock. Its final headwall involves a steep, exposed Class 3 climb, which many consider to be one of the best overall peak-bagging experiences in the San Juans for experienced hikers seeking a thrilling challenge.

For Uncompahgre Peak, the Nellie Creek trailhead is popular, though it requires a high-clearance 4WD vehicle for access to the upper trailhead. For Handies Peak, the American Basin route is a common choice. Silver Creek and Grizzly Gulch trailheads are frequently used for accessing Redcloud Peak and Sunshine Peak.

The official highest point of the Colorado Trail is located in Hinsdale County at 13,271 feet. A small sign on a wooden post marks this spot, offering stunning panoramic views and a significant achievement for hikers on the trail.