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The full approach, from I-70 to the summit of Torreys Peak.


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Map Key

6.4

Miles

10.3

KM

Ascent

14,126' 4,306 m

High

9,812' 2,991 m

Low

4,314' 1,315 m

Up

0' 0 m

Down

13%

Avg Slope (7°)

36%

Max Slope (20°)
Type: Backcountry or Sidecountry

Description

This route shows the full approach to Torreys Peak. Since CR 321 to the Grizzly Gulch turn off and the Grays Peak trailhead is not maintained, you can't drive very far up the road until May. So, worst case is that you have to start from the parking lot at the Bakerville exit from I-70.

From there, follow Stevens Gulch Road. Only about a mile up the road, you'll pass the turnoff for Grizzly Gulch which would bring you to the base of Emperor Couloir, the Tuning Forks, and Grizzly Couloir, however, that's not where we're going so continue on, up 321.The road ends at the Grays Peak trailhead, where you'll find a parking area, some maps, and a bathroom.

From here, it's often best skinning to follow the creek, under the bridge. If it's later in the spring, that will be melted out, and you'll need to follow the summer trail. Either way, head up Stevens Gulch and gain views of Grays and Torreys as you come around Kelso Mountain.

Once Torreys in in full view, make sure that you move right, to the gap between some moraine features and the ridge between Kelso Mountain and Torreys. You should have a wonderful view of Dead Dog Couloir at this point. Take a left and start gaining altitude on the west side of the moraine features. Follow these up into the Grays Peak Bowl. Traverse this bowl while gaining elevation to make the saddle between Grays and Torreys (preferably, avoid the cornice that often develops on this saddle). Once there, head north to the summit of Torreys Peak (it's closer than it looks).

Contacts

Shared By:

Jacob Winey

Trail Ratings

  3.7 from 3 votes

#300

Overall
  3.7 from 3 votes
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4 Star
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3 Star
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2 Star
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1 Star
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Ascent Rankings

#88

in Colorado

#300

Overall
64 Views Last Month
6,143 Since May 26, 2017
Easy/Intermediate Easy/Intermediate

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Photos

Approaching Torreys Peak with a view of the East Face and Dead Dog.
Apr 30, 2017 near Georgetown, CO
Making turns in the lower half of the Emperor.
May 10, 2023 near Georgetown, CO
Making turns in the top pitch of the Tuning Fork.
May 10, 2023 near Georgetown, CO
Second section. A little narrower than the start. The tightest choke of the line is at the end of this section.
May 26, 2017 near Georgetown, CO
The first section of Emperor Couloir right start.
May 26, 2017 near Georgetown, CO
Dropping into the steep, east face of Torreys
Mar 2, 2018 near Georgetown, CO

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Current Trail Conditions

All Clear 59 days ago
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