Summer is the time to get above treeline and enjoy the alpine, and some routes deliver better than others, like the trek up to Horseshoe Pass that travels entirely through tundra.

The route starts at about 11,500 feet where an old mining road winds up to the pass and the drive to the “trailhead” only takes about 1.5 hours from Woodland Park.

From the intersection of Highways 9 and 285 just south of Fairplay, drive south on 285 for only about a quarter mile and turn right on County Road 18 aka Fourmile Creek Road. Drive westward for about 10.25 miles to some old mining buildings then continue for about another .75 mile to a parking area, where a 4WD road breaks off to the left.

Park on CR 18 and begin hiking on the 4WD road, crossing over a branch of Fourmile Creek, then the road gets pretty rough and becomes more of a jeep trail with very minimal vehicle traffic. The route winds its way westward, climbing through grassy tundra with some scattered willows.

The curvaceous 13er Horseshoe Mountain lies off to the left with Peerless Mountain on the right. After about two miles pass some mining ruins then after about another mile reach the top of Horseshoe Pass. Peerless Mountain lies to the north, so if you made it this far go for the summit, it’s only about 250 feet up and a mere quarter mile away.

Follow the primitive trail across rocky terrain up to the 13,356-foot summit. From the top, soak in a broadside view of the 14er Mount Sherman to the north. Brown-capped rosy-finches breed in the rocky alpine, and on a July visit I was fortunate to witness a peregrine falcon cruising the tundra in hopes of surprising a prey item. Celebrate successfully summiting a 13er by relaxing and enjoying lunch with a view, then retrace the route back to the parking area.

Joe LaFleur is a hiking enthusiast that hits the trails weekly. He has successfully summited over 150 unique 13ers and 14ers in Colorado. Contact Joe with questions or feedback at joe@betterbirdwatching.com. Hiking is great exercise but can be hazardous. Always be sure to plan well, check the weather, bring a printed map, tell someone where and when you are going and contact them when you return safely.