Southwest Slopes
Handies Peak · 14,056' · Rank #42
Class 1 Standard Route
5.8
miles RT
2,500
ft gain
Class 1
difficulty
3-5
hours
Trail Map
Trail data coming soon
We're working on adding detailed trail maps and elevation profiles for this route.
Route Details
- Distance
- 5.8 miles RT
- Elevation Gain
- 2,500'
- Difficulty
- Class 1
- Exposure
- Low
- Typical Time
- 3-5 hours
Trailhead
- Name
- American Basin Trailhead
- Starting Elevation
- 11,600'
- Coordinates
- 37.9202°N, 107.5160°W
Parking & Access
- Parking
- Dispersed 50-100 spots
- Fee
- Free
No Service
4WD/AWD REQUIRED after mile 13.5. DO NOT use Google/Apple Maps (may route over Cinnamon Pass). Lower parking available for 2WD.
Route Description
One of the shortest 14er routes in Colorado. The trail climbs through spectacular American Basin, famous for July wildflowers. Near Sloan Lake, the route turns left and traverses talus to easier slopes. The final push follows switchbacks up the gentle southwest ridge.
Gear & Preparation
4WD required for American Basin road - it's rough. This is a high-altitude start at 11,600' - acclimate if coming from low elevation. Best wildflowers typically late July.