Climb Apache Peak
10 Miles
3280 Feet
Hiking, Rock Climbing
Advanced
Spring, Summer
Out-and-Back
Climb the second highest peak in Indian Peaks Wilderness via the classic Queens Way Couloir. About 10 miles round trip. 3280 ft elevation gain.
Start at the Long Lake Trailhead ($10 parking fee) and head up the trail towards Isabell Lake. You'll pass both Long Lake and Isabelle lake, with spectacular views at both. At Lake Isabelle, be sure to continue straight on the trail, further up the valley, not the right turn up to Pawnee Pass.
Continue up past Lake Isabell, following the trail and cairns along the way. You'll reach an unnamed tarn, and head up and to the right towards the Isabelle Glacier and Queens Way.
The Queens Way is a clear snow ramp heading up towards Apache Peak from the southwest corner of the glacier. The slope averages between 35-40 degrees, and rises about 1200 ft in elevation. Upon reaching the top of the couloir, follow a short ridgeline with some fun scrambling up to the summit.
Enjoy the view of nearby Shoshoni, Navajo, and Pawnee Peaks, and even Longs Peak to the north. Have fun on the glisadde down!
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations.
