Torreys Peak (14,267') & Grays Peak (14,270') - Trip Report

June 19, 1996

Steve Wilkinson

I was able to hit the trail at Stevens Gulch at 7:30 am. I took the traditional route up toward Grays, then traversed on generous remaining snow to the saddle between Torreys and Grays. Weather was sunny, cool, and windy, becoming calm and warm in the afternoon. Expected afternoon showers didn't come, though they did next two or three days I was in the area.

The trail was largely clear up to remaining snow banks on northern slopes above 12.5k, and I had several goat encounters through the day at all altitudes except the peaks themselves. I counted about 10 climbers and skiers in the area.

I climbed Torreys first and reached the peak in about 2 hours. Views of mountains to the west were crystal clear -- as good as it gets. Snowmass was visible, and Holy Cross was really outstanding. I descended to the saddle and on up to Grays. Because of it's northern presentation, there were patches of snow and ice on and off on the way up, and I was glad to have the ice axe for traverses and descent.

I moved on toward a nearby thirteener [Edwards peak, I think] but by this time I was feeling pretty bad -- you other flatlanders know what I mean. A great glissade from the saddle between this thirteener and Grays went about 1500 feet, I guess. The walk back above the basin lake was fast and flat.

The General Assembly of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church was meeting June 20-22 [I'm a pastor]. I came a day early to get in these two easy peaks. Many thanks to Keith Jensen and CMC for updates a week prior so that I knew how to pack.

I've made it a practice to go for some peaks any time I'm in the area -- all this is to encourage you other flatlanders who pass through Colorado on tight schedules. If you don't mind the headache, you can get in a peak when you go to Denver on business instead of playing golf [yuk] in your free time. Staying in good physical shape means you'll make it. The altitude headache will pass, but you'll keep the peak.

This article submitted by the author.

Other Information

• Located in Arapahoe National Forest
• USGS Maps - Grays Peak 7.5' quad
• Trails Illustrated Map #104 "Idaho Springs, Georgetown, Loveland Pass"
• Rated Moderate Class C with scrambling, 8 miles and 3,300' round trip.
• Guide Books: A Climbing Guide to Colorado's Fourteeners
• What to Bring on a Hike
• Safety And Survival
• There's Weather Out There
• Learning Safety Through the Experience of Others