Handies Peak is a 14,000+ foot mountain located in the San Juan Mountains of Colorado. There are multiple ways to reach the summit of Handies Peak. One common route is via the East Slopes. This is generally considered to be a strenuous hike. This out and back hike is 7.8 miles and gains 3,628 feet of elevation.
This hike starts from Silver Creek/Grizzly Gulch Trailhead in the Handies Peak Wilderness Study Area. There are pit toilets available at the trailhead. Begin hiking southwest on American Basin Trail. You will be hiking uphill through a coniferous forest. You will also be hiking parallel to Grizzly Gulch. After 1.7 miles of uphill hiking, you will emerge above the treeline. You will be able to see the summit of Handies Peak now.
Continue hiking uphill as you enjoy views of the peak and the surrounding valley. After another 0.8 miles, the trail heads north as you switch back up a slope. After 0.2 miles, you will have completed the switchbacks and will continue uphill towards a ridge.
After another 0.8 miles, you will gain the ridge that leads to the summit. Hike up a steep slope for 0.5 miles to reach the summit of Handies Peak. From the summit, you will have beautiful views of the San Juan Mountains. On a clear day, you will be able to see Mount Sneffels, Uncompahgre Peak, Redcloud Peak, and Sunshine Peak along with many other peaks in the San Juan Mountains. Once you have taken ample time to rest and enjoy the views, turn around and retrace your steps to return to the trailhead.
The Handies Peak Wilderness Study Area is open for hiking year round. There are no associated fees to hike here. Dogs are allowed on this trail. Hiking up Handies Peak is a rewarding outing for ambitious hikers.
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