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Westcliffe, Colorado, United States

Humboldt - Colorado 14er Overnight

This 14er as unbelievable views of alpine lakes and the neighboring Crestone Needles

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Difficulty: Difficult
Length: 10.6 miles / 17.1 km
Duration: Multiple days
Family Friendly • Dog Friendly
 
Overview: This is a beautiful overnight of just over 10 miles that will bring you to a the top of a non-technical 14er. Although Humboldt is pretty easy to climb you'll be impressed at the neighboring Crestone Needles which are some of the most dificult to climb. Make sure to bring a fishing pole as the South Colony Lakes are stocked with trout where you will be camping.

Tips: Directions to South Colony Lakes Trailhead:
From Westcliffe, Colorado drive southwest on highway 69 4.5 miles to Colfax Lane (CO119) where there is a Forest Service sign. Turn right (south) and go another 5.5 miles until the road ends, then turn right on South Colony Road (Forest Service Road 120) for another 1.5 miles where you will find a parking lot. The road generally gets worse from here but you can test your luck with a 4x4. Stop whenever you can't go further or the road is closed by a gate. There are no fees or permits to park here.

Points of Interest

Parking
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South Colony Lake Trailhead

There have been recent trailhead changes in this area with the latest saying that the upper 2.6 miles of the S. Colony Road is now permanently closed. Basically drive as far as you can up the road and park at the trailhead.
Campground
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Upper South Colony Lake Campsite

We found a great campsite here which provided amazing views of the Crestone Needles towering over us on Climbers left. Oh yeah - the lakes are stocked... so bring a fishing pole!
Viewpoint
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Switchback Ascent

A steep ascent to gain the ridge to the summit of Humboldt.
Mountain
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Final Ridge and Summit

Be careful not to stray to far to the edge as th northern backside of Humboldt is a cliff in many places. Should you be so lucky to have arrived at the top on a sunny day you will have some amazing views.
Pictures in this guide taken by: JonathanEllinger

Jonathan Ellinger

Humboldt - Colorado 14er Overnight Trail Map


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About the Author

JonathanEllinger
JonathanEllinger
333 guides
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Although I have climbed over 250 mountains from various places around the U.S. and have hiked in Europe...

Humboldt - Colorado 14er Overnight 3 Day Forecast

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