San Isabel National Forest
La Plata Peak

La Plata Peak is a 14er in the Sawatch Mountains. That means a lot of traffic, pretty much all year round. While the route I describe below is rated as moderate, it can be hard if you aren't in shape for it.

Elevations:

• Trail beginning: 10,380'
• High Point: 14,336'
• Trail ending: 14,336'

Access: On US 24, 4.3 miles south of the Colorado 82 junction or 14.9 miles north of the stop light in central Buena Vista, turn west on Chaffee County Road 390. Go west 11.8 miles to Winfield. From the center of Winfield go right for about 60 yards, then go west for 0.6 miles past the Winfield Cemetery and into the forest. When the road gets really rough, find a place to park. 4WD vehicles can make it another 1.2 miles or so.

Notes: In an open meadow at about 10,730 ' there is a road junction. Go north for 300 yards and pass a road closure gate (Collegiate Peaks Wilderness starts here). Continue north and then northwest for about a mile on the trail into a gorgeous valley. Keep going north across the valley and then climb up a steep slope onto La Plata's southwest ridge. At 13,200' you'll be well up on the ridge and it's another mile up a long rolling stretch to the summit.

USGS Maps: Mt. Elbert, Winfield