Mountaineering

Paragon Mountaineering

Local Peak Ascents Full day hikes in the Vail area offer a number of peaks that provide great scenery, High Alpine terrain, and the challenge of reaching these 12,000′-13,000′ summits. The level of difficulty for most ranges from Class 1, Grade 1 to Class 2, Grade 2

• Price Ranges from $425 – $210 depending on route and number of people
• Peaks can be done in 1, 2 or 3 day trips
• Certain routes can only be climbed during certain seasons

The Mount of the Holy Cross (14,005′)is located on the northern end of the Sawatch Range of Central Colorado. Just 14 miles by road from Vail and approximately 6 miles as the “crow flies”, the peak dominates the southerly view from the top of the Vail Mountain Ski Area. Call for custom dates.

Mt. Powell (13,575′) The highest peak in the Gore Range. Named after John Wesley Powell, the great western explorer, who climbed this peak on his way to the Grand Canyon and his epic journey down the Colorado River. This relatively remote area makes for an exciting High Alpine experience. One or two nights camping is recommended. Class 2/3, Grade 2

Uneva Peak (12,200′) Starting at Vail Pass this peak provides “high alpine” views of the Gore Range and Ten Mile Range. “Off-trail” hikingleads to the summit ridge. (moderate)

Notch Mountain (13,237′) A maintained trail leads to the summit of this well known peak awarding the climber with a view of the famous “cross of snow” on the Mount of the Holy Cross peak. (moderate)

Galena Mtn. Couloir (12,922′) Reaching the summit of Galena Mtn. via this couloir is a challenging introductory snow climb (moderate rating). An alternative south ridgeline is the standard route. Class 2, Grade 1

Grand Traverse Peak (12,860′) Located at the head of the Vail Valley, this mountain is highlighted in many of the photos you see of Vail Village with the Gore Range as a backdrop. One or two nights camping is recommended. Class 2/3, Grade 2

Homestake Peak (13,200′) From the deck of the 10th Mtn. Hut, Homestake Peak dominates the western skyline. It’s graceful, long sloping eastern ridgeline beckons to be climbed. Remnants of the WWII ski troops remind us of their adventures in these mountains. Class 2, Grade1

Mt. Jackson (13,670′) Named for the famous photographer Henry Jackson who first photographed Mt. of the Holy Cross, this peak offers great views of Holy Cross, the Cross Creek Valley, the Gore Range, and the heart of the Holy Cross Wilderness. High Alpine hiking and a short Class 3 scramble on the summit ridge makes this a challenging ascent. Camping near the Turquoise Lakes for two to four nights is recommended. Class 3, Grade 2

Mountain Skills Camp

4-6 day Mountaineering Camps These trips go into the Eagles Nest Wilderness. Camp is set in the upper reaches of the Pitkin Creek Valley. With a backdrop of high peaks and a pristine Alpine Lake, you will be introduced to the fundamentals of rock climbing and mountaineering. Depending on the length of the trip; rock climbing, rappelling, snow climbing, low impact camping and the mountain environment will be covered. The focus of these programs is to give each person a basic understanding of climbing and the systems that make it safe. We stress understanding mountain climbing concepts and provide plenty of time on the rock. Camp life is enhanced with hearty meals, and a sharing of knowledge of many aspects of backpacking, climbing, mountaineering and Natural History. Available via request only Contact us at 877.926.5299 for more information