Grays Peak Trail

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!