Mt. Yale

Southwest Slopes

Stoke Meter
4.5/5

Distance

8.5 Miles

Highest Elevation

14,196ft.

Lowest Elevation

9,900ft.

Ascent

4,300 ft.

Difficulty

Class 2

Overview

A straightforward and easy trail up one of the Sawatch Range’s most beautiful peaks.

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Trail Directions

From US 24 in Buena Vista, head west on to CR 306. Take CR 306 for 12 miles to reach the Denny Creek trailhead on the right hand side. The road is entirely paved and easy to access as well as plenty of parking at the trail head.

From the Denny Creek trailhead make your way up the trail. This trail is fairly easy to follow with a moderate grade. Make sure to be aware of the rocks and roots on the trail. After 1.2 miles there will be a trail junction, head right up the Mt. Yale trail (there should be a sign marking the junction) heading straight on the trail will take you to Brown’s Pass.

Continue to head through the forest, the trail will parallel a stream. At about 11,200 you will end up crossing the stream and through some small meadows as you switchback up the peak. Past tree line at 12,000 you will encounter several boulders bordering the trail at the bottom of the basin. You should be able to see the remainder of the route form here. You will continue to work your way north and wind through some rocks, continuing up some steep switchbacks up to the saddle. The saddle sits just below 14,000, turn right from here and scramble along some mild rocks to reach the summit at 14,177.

Take a few moment to enjoy your efforts and make your way back down the way you climbed up. Making note to turn Left at the trail fork with 1.2 miles to go to head down to the trailhead.
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