Alpine Mountaineering: Classic Climbs

Area Overview | 13'ers Part 1 | 13'ers Part 2 | Custom Programs

Vestal Basin & The Grenadier Range

(Vestal Peak (left) and Arrow Peak, from the Elk Creek Trail.)

General Information

Vestal Basin is the home of the Grenadiers: Vestal Peak (13,864 ft.), Arrow Peak (13,803 ft.) and the Trinity Peaks (13,805 ft.) are some of the most awe-inspiring mountains in all of Colorado. These climbs are "alpine" in nature, often with 5th class sections on the routes to the summit. The rock is of a much higher quality than the rest of the San Juans, and offers wonderful climbing at altitude. THE classic climb in the area, the Wham Ridge (III, 5.4), climbs straight up the North Face of Vestal Peak on excellent rock in one of the most beautiful settings any mountaineer or climber could imagine.

Other options in Vestal Basin and the Grenadier Range include:

• The Trinity Peaks (13,745 ft.)
• Storm King Peak (13,752 ft.)
• Mount Silex (13,628 ft.)
• The Guardian (13,617 ft.)

Please allow for a minimum of 3 days to attempt climbs in Vestal Basin & The Grenadier Range.

Dates: Arranged on a private basis. Please call to schedule your custom adventure.

Climbing Season: June, July, August, and September

Cost: Varies according to itinerary, please call or refer to our Custom Trips Page

Client to Guide Ratio: 2:1

Intermediate Level Climbing and Hiking

(Vestal Basin and the Grenadiers with routes marked in red)

Trip Cost Includes: Backpacking and climbing guides for the duration of the trip. All group technical equipment required for the climbs. Airport and hotel transfers, and local transportation during the course free of charge for those who fly to Durango. For an additional charge, we can also provide food, cooking equipment, and tents.

Not Included: Hotel costs before, during, or after the courses. 3% land use surcharge, 7.5% sales tax on rental equipment, $3 Colorado Outdoor Recreation Search and Rescue card (required), train tickets trip cancellation insurance, personal climbing/camping equipment and gear, or guide gratuities.

Registration and Cancellation: You will need to fill out our Domestic Registration Form, cancellation policy agreement, and liability waiver, and send it to us with a 50% deposit. Balance is due on the first day of the course. Please click on our Registration/Travel link to access the required forms.