Crestone Peak
Mountain Fourteener mountain in Colorado's Sangre de Cristo Range
A Colorado fourteener in the Sangre de Cristo Range that draws climbers and high‑altitude hikers for steep routes, exposed ridges and wide views over the San Luis Valley.
Crestone Peak is a high mountain in the Sangre de Cristo Range of south-central Colorado, United States, and is one of the state’s fourteeners. It rises to 14,294 feet (4,355 metres) and is known for steep, rugged terrain typical of the range.
Climbers and mountaineers visit for summit attempts and technical routes; the peak is often climbed in conjunction with nearby summits such as Crestone Needle. Approaches start from trailheads in the valleys below and require alpine experience.
The peak forms part of the Sangre de Cristo Wilderness and has been part of 20th-century mountaineering activity in Colorado; recreational climbing and backcountry travel are the primary modern uses. The area is managed for wilderness conservation and recreation.
Geographically the mountain sits in south-central Colorado near the town of Crestone and within the Sangre de Cristo Range, with steep ridgelines dropping to the surrounding valleys.
- Elevation: Highest summit reaches 14,294 feet (4,355 metres), making it one of Colorado's recognized 'fourteeners'.
How to Get to Crestone Peak #
The most common access is the South Colony Lakes trailhead, reached from the small town of Crestone (Saguache County). From Crestone, follow County Road 251 (a graded dirt road) roughly 9-12 miles toward the trailhead - allow extra time for slow, rocky sections. The approach from South Colony Lakes climbs steeply into the upper basin; expect several miles of hiking and substantial elevation gain.
Tips for Visiting Crestone Peak #
- Start before dawn and be off the summit by late morning - the Sangre de Cristo range cooks up lightning by early afternoon.
- Use the South Colony Lakes approach: the trailhead road is rough and high-clearance vehicles are common; allow an extra 30-45 minutes on approach.
- Plan for route-finding on loose talus and exposed scrambling; a helmet and experience with class 3-4 terrain make the day far more pleasant.
Best Time to Visit Crestone Peak #
Best visited in summer for non-technical ascents; shoulder seasons offer snow travel opportunities but demand alpine skills.
Weather & Climate near Crestone Peak #
Crestone Peak's climate is classified as Tundra - Tundra climate with cold summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -18°C to 15°C. Moderate rainfall (836 mm/year).
January
January is the coldest month with highs of -4°C and lows of -18°C. Moderate rainfall (54 mm) and breezy conditions.
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February
February is freezing with highs of -3°C and lows of -18°C. Moderate rainfall (61 mm) and breezy conditions.
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March
March is freezing with highs of -2°C and lows of -16°C. Regular rainfall (93 mm) and breezy conditions.
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April
April is freezing with highs of 0°C and lows of -13°C. Moderate rainfall (68 mm) and breezy conditions.
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May
May is freezing with highs of 5°C and lows of -8°C. Moderate rainfall (59 mm) and breezy conditions.
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June
June is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of -2°C. Moderate rainfall (56 mm).
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July
July is cold with highs of 15°C and lows of 1°C. Regular rainfall (95 mm).
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August
August is cold with highs of 15°C and lows of 1°C. The wettest month with 99 mm of rain.
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September
September is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of -2°C. Moderate rainfall (69 mm).
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October
October is freezing with highs of 6°C and lows of -6°C. Moderate rainfall (60 mm) and breezy conditions.
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November
November is freezing with highs of 0°C and lows of -13°C. Moderate rainfall (58 mm) and breezy conditions.
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December
December is freezing with highs of -3°C and lows of -16°C. Moderate rainfall (64 mm) and breezy conditions.
