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Wetterhorn Peak Trail

Uncompahgre National Forest, Colorado · 3 min read

Distance
9 mi
Elevation Gain
3,800 ft
Difficulty
strenuous
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
July through September
Est. Time
6-8 hours
Dog Friendly
Yes
Kid Friendly
No
Difficulty Score
10 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
Vault Toilet
Parking
Free
Cell Service
No Signal
Water
Nearby
Camping
Dispersed
Google MapsApple Maps

Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • 14,015-foot summit with 360-degree San Juan panorama
  • Class 3 scrambling on the upper ridge adds adventure
  • Rarely crowded compared to Fourteeners near Ouray
  • Views of Uncompahgre Peak, Matterhorn, and the Cimarrons
  • Alpine wildflowers peak in late July
summitviewswildflowersalpine meadow

Overview

Wetterhorn Peak is one of Colorado's 58 Fourteeners and one of the least-crowded, sitting in the Big Blue Wilderness of Uncompahgre National Forest. The 9.0-mile round trip gains 3,800 feet with Class 3 scrambling on the upper summit block. Unlike the Fourteeners near Ouray and Telluride with large trailhead parking areas, Wetterhorn's approach requires a rough road and rewards those willing to make the drive with significantly fewer people on the trail.

The peak shares a trailhead with Matterhorn Peak (14,156 feet), and many experienced parties summit both in a single long day. Wetterhorn alone is a full day for most hikers.

Altitude and weather: The summit sits at 14,015 feet. Afternoon thunderstorms are common throughout July and August. Plan to be at or below the saddle by noon.

The Route

Miles 0 to 3: Valley approach. The trail climbs steadily up the Matterhorn Creek drainage through willows and alpine meadows. The grade is sustained but never brutal. Wildflowers fill the meadows in late July.

Miles 3 to 4: Saddle. The trail steepens as it climbs to the saddle between Wetterhorn and Matterhorn at approximately 13,500 feet. Views open in all directions from here.

Miles 4 to 4.5: Summit scramble. The route leaves maintained trail and climbs the northeast ridge on Class 3 terrain. Hands on rock are required. The exposure is moderate but the footing is solid on dry rock. The summit is a flat platform with views of the entire San Juan range.

When to Visit

Mid-July through mid-September is the reliable window. Snow lingers on the upper scramble into July in average years. The road to the trailhead typically opens in late June. September offers the clearest skies and lightest crowds.

Practical Details

The access road (CR-3/Engineer Pass Road) is passable for high-clearance 2WD vehicles in dry conditions but rutted. Arrive early to secure trailhead parking. Carry 2 to 3 liters of water; streams provide additional sources but filter before drinking. The 10 essentials are appropriate for this route given the remote location.

Getting There

From Lake City, take Second Street south to Henson Creek Road (CR-20), then follow CR-20 west approximately 20 miles toward Engineer Pass. Turn right on CR-3 (Matterhorn Creek Road) and drive 3 miles to the trailhead. From Ouray, cross Engineer Pass and descend to the same junction. Allow 45 minutes from Lake City.

Leave No Trace

This trail receives enough use that following Leave No Trace principles is important for preserving the experience for future visitors. Stay on the marked trail to prevent erosion. Pack out all waste. Avoid camping within 200 feet of water sources or the trail. Use existing fire rings only where campfires are permitted, and check current fire restrictions at checking conditions before you go before any visit. The trail and surrounding terrain remain in good condition because previous visitors have respected these norms.

Trailhead Parking

Matterhorn Creek Trailhead on Engineer Pass Road (CR-3). Dirt road accessible in dry conditions; 4WD recommended. Space for 20-25 vehicles.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How hard is Wetterhorn Peak?
Wetterhorn is rated strenuous with Class 3 scrambling on the upper 0.5 mile. The scrambling is exposed and requires hands on rock but is not technical climbing. The total gain of 3,800 feet in 4.5 miles is demanding. Most parties take 6 to 8 hours round trip.
When is Wetterhorn Peak accessible?
The summit is typically snow-free from mid-July through mid-September. Early season snow on the upper ridge can make the scramble dangerous. The access road closes in winter and is muddy in early summer.
Is a permit needed for Wetterhorn Peak?
No permit is required for day hiking Wetterhorn Peak (as of 2026). The trail is in the Big Blue Wilderness; overnight camping requires Leave No Trace practices but no reservation.
What is the best route to Wetterhorn Peak?
The standard route follows Matterhorn Creek to a saddle at 13,500 feet, then traverses a ridge to the summit block. The final scramble gains 500 feet on Class 3 terrain. The route is well-traveled but not formally maintained above treeline.