Overview
Whitney Peak is a big Sawatch summit south of Mount of the Holy Cross, with a broad summit plateau and a fine view of the 14er. The true high point is a large block at the east end; a western summit about a quarter mile away was once thought to be higher.
A very good trail climbs to Whitney Lake. From there you push through thick forest to the southeast ridge, follow it to treeline, and climb steep talus with some rock-hopping to the top. It is Difficult Class 2.
The round trip is about 9 miles with 4,200 feet of gain. A longer northwest ridge route starts at the French Creek trailhead and uses the Fall Creek Trail.
Plan of the day
By 6:30 a.m.
Be at treeline by 10 a.m.
Steep talus on the upper ridge.
Moderate. The forest between the lake and treeline needs care.
Whitney Lake. Filter it.
Getting to the trailhead
Whitney Lake
Take Homestake Road (Forest Road 703), which leaves US 24 on the west about 11 miles south of Minturn or 19 miles north of Leadville. Drive about 4.5 miles to the Whitney Lake trailhead, which is easy to miss. Park on the east side of the road.
Any car can make it. Gold Park Campground and many free roadside sites are farther up the same road.
Base towns and camping for this climb
Coming from out of state? See Lodging & Camping for how free camping works, what is closed this year and where to stay.
Before you go
Check these the week of your climb.
Official forecast
The National Weather Service forecast for the summit area, hour by hour. Look for thunderstorm chances and wind above treeline.
NWS point forecast →Directions to the trailhead
Whitney Lake. Road conditions near the trailhead change after storms. Check your clearance and have a backup plan for a lower lot.
Get directions →Roads and highways
Closures, construction and winter conditions on the highways that get you there.
COtrip road conditions →Closures and fire rules
Trail closures, fire bans and other alerts from the Forest Service in Colorado. For the latest on your trailhead, call the local ranger district.
Forest Service alerts →Snow on the route?
From fall through early summer, any snow slope can slide. Check the avalanche forecast before you go.
Avalanche forecast →Cell signal
Most trailheads and many summits have little or no signal. Check coverage near the trailhead and carry a satellite messenger or beacon if you can.
FCC coverage map →