Grays Peak Trail
Silver Plume, Colorado
Details
Distance
7.25 miles
Elevation Gain
2995 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back
Description
Added by Kyle Frost
In summer months, the Gray's/Torrey's Peak trail is a relative highway during the day. For a more unique experience, brave the morning chill and head up to catch a fantastic sunrise! Or do it in the snow, like I did.
The first challenge you'll face on your way to the summit of Gray's peak is Steven's Gulch Road. My Corolla rolled up to the start of what I’ve seen described as a “4x4 road that should probably not be attempted in a low clearance vehicle”. But what the heck, it was late, and I didn't feel like walking the extra miles in the morning. I made it, albeit very, very carefully.
At 5am, I set out into the morning darkness with headlamp lighting the way. 3,000ft of uphill to go. The dusting of snow at lower elevations gives way to calf-deep trudging in some places, but I hardly noticed. My eyes were on the sky. As sunrise approached, brilliant orange light crept over the edge of the mountains to the east. The summit provides incredible views of the Front Range. If you're quick, you can even be back in time for work in the morning!
As far as 14ers go, Gray's is a pretty straightforward and intermediate hike. It's close to Denver, and you can even add in a summit of Torrey's if conditions permit. Regardless, beautiful views are to be had!
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Grays Peak Trail Reviews
It was a tough hike in the middle of the night. We left the parking lot at midnight and hiked through the night. It was cold, but the sunrise was like none other.
5.0
You'll likely have sunrise to yourself in the summer but you still have to deal with crowds on the way down and lots of cars on the road.
4.0
This is a great idea! I recently did a sunrise hike to Grizzly Peak, just west of Torreys. It's beautiful with the sun hitting the snow capped peaks. Stevens Gulch Rd is also a favorite of mine for snowshoeing in winter.
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Nearby
Grays and Torreys Peaks
Torrey's Peak via Kelso Ridge
Bakerville Scenic Snowshoe/XC Ski Trek
Grays Peak via the South Ridge
Argentine Railroad Grade
Hike the 7:30 Mine Road in Silver Plume
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