Colorado 14ers: Kit Carson Peak
Knock off two thrilling 14ers on this strenuous 11.2-mile, out-and-back adventure in Colorado's rugged Sangre de Cristo Wilderness. Also makes a great overnight.
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Trail Facts
- Distance: 9.2
Waypoints
KCP001
Location: 37.9891128540039, -105.664245605469
Begin on E side parking lot
KCP002
Location: 37.9888687133789, -105.662582397461
Turn R onto Willow Lake Approach; cross creek twice; turn L
KCP003
Location: 37.9897727966309, -105.646125793457
Bear R, staying on the side of the ridge
KCP004
Location: 37.991455078125, -105.624603271484
Ascend up headwall on a series of switchbacks
KCP005
Location: 37.9935569763184, -105.612037658691
View the lower falls @ Willow Lake
KCP006
Location: 37.9941673278809, -105.61124420166
Bear L along the N shore of Willow Lake
KCP007
Location: 37.9950790405273, -105.607559204102
Turn L, moving up the cliffs ahead. Watch for storm clouds
KCP008
Location: 37.9915542602539, -105.605674743652
Bear S; scramble up long, steep slope on rock benches
KCP009
Location: 37.9838600158691, -105.610061645508
Head E @ prominent ridgeline
KCP010
Location: 37.9803657531738, -105.606513977051
Challenger Point (14,081 ft.); descend slightly to saddle
KCP011
Location: 37.9798011779785, -105.603759765625
Follow Kit Carson Alley, a natural ledge that traverses the cliffs of Kit Carson
KCP012
Location: 37.979118347168, -105.601760864258
Veer L, then climb up gulley to Kit Carson Peak (14,165 ft.); views of the Sangre de Cristo Range; retrace steps to trailhead