West Slopes from Weston Pass

Overview

Weston Peak rises just north of Weston Pass, paired with Ptarmigan Peak on the same ridge. This route follows an old road from the pass, climbs the trailless west slopes to the ridge, then turns southeast to Weston's summit.

It is Class 2 on grass and rocks. There is no trail above 12,200 feet, but the terrain is open and easy to read.

Both peaks together are about 4.5 miles round trip with 2,200 feet of gain, usually 4 to 5 hours. Climb Weston first, then walk the ridge north to Ptarmigan.

Plan of the day

Getting to the trailhead

From Fairplay, go roughly 4.5 miles south on US 285, then right onto County Road 5. Follow the signs for Weston Pass and drive about 15.5 miles to the top of the pass.

The road is maintained dirt and most cars can make it in dry weather.

Next: the route, step by step →

The route

1. 1

   Weston Pass 11,921' · 0 mi

   Head north on an old road that follows the power lines.

2. 2

   End of the road 12,200' · 0.5 mi

   The road fades out. There is no trail from here.

3. 3

   West slopes 12,800' · 0.9 mi

   Climb northeast up the slopes.

4. 4

   Ridge between the peaks 13,300' · 1.3 mi

   Reach the ridge and turn right toward Weston.

5. 5

   Ridge point 13,450' · 1.5 mi

   Follow the crest east-southeast over a small high point and down a little on its far side.

6. 6

   Summit 13,586' · 1.7 mi

   Climb the last slope to Weston's top. Ptarmigan is to the northwest.

Getting down

Head back along the ridge to where you reached it and go down the west slopes to the road, or continue north to Ptarmigan first.

If things go wrong

Drop west off the ridge and head south to the pass.

3D flyover

See the trail on video

Other routes

Every way up Weston Peak we list, with its class.

• Ptarmigan and Weston from Weston Pass this routeClass 2 4.5 mi