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Grays and Torreys Summer Trailhead

Hike two iconic 14ers in one day, experiencing breathtaking alpine views from the Grays and Torreys Peaks near Silver Plume, Colorado.

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The Grays and Torreys Summer Trailhead provides access to two of Colorado's most popular 14,000-foot peaks, offering a challenging but rewarding hiking experience with stunning alpine views. The trailhead is a starting point for many adventurers seeking to summit Grays and Torreys Peaks, often tackled together in a single day.

A brief summary to Grays and Torreys Summer Trailhead

  • 3025 Stevens Gulch Rd, Silver Plume, Colorado, 80476, US
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Start your hike early (before dawn) to avoid afternoon thunderstorms, which are common in the area.
  • Acclimate to the altitude for a day or two before attempting the hike to reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
  • Bring plenty of water, as there is limited water available along the trail.
  • Check the weather forecast before you go and be prepared for sudden changes in weather.
  • If the parking lot is full, do not park along the road, as you may be ticketed or towed.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    To reach the Grays and Torreys Summer Trailhead from Denver, take I-70 west to the Bakerville Exit 221. Continue south on Stevens Gulch Road (County Road 321), a dirt road, for approximately 3 miles to the trailhead. Note that the road can be rough and may require a high-clearance 4WD vehicle. Parking is free at the trailhead, but the lots fill up quickly, especially on weekends, so arrive early (before 4 or 5 AM). Parking along Stevens Gulch Road is not recommended, as ticketing and towing are enforced.

  • Public Transport

    While there is no direct public transportation to the Grays and Torreys Summer Trailhead, you can take the Bustang West Line from Denver to Idaho Springs. From there, you would need to arrange for a taxi or rideshare to the trailhead, which is approximately 20 miles away. Given the limited availability and cost, this option is not ideal. Taxi/rideshare estimate: $60 - $80.

  • Walking

    If the upper parking lots are full, you may need to park at the lower Chimney Lot off I-70 and hike the remaining 3 miles (1460' elevation gain) to the trailhead. Be prepared for an additional 1-2 hours of hiking time. There are no fees associated with walking.

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Discover more about Grays and Torreys Summer Trailhead

Grays and Torreys Summer Trailhead, located near Silver Plume, Colorado, serves as the gateway to Grays Peak (14,278 feet) and Torreys Peak (14,267 feet), both iconic Colorado "14ers". This trailhead provides access to a well-maintained trail system that winds through scenic alpine meadows and rocky slopes, ultimately leading hikers to the summits of these majestic peaks. Grays Peak, named after botanist Asa Gray, and Torreys Peak, named after Gray's colleague John Torrey, offer panoramic views of the Continental Divide and the surrounding Rocky Mountains. The area is rich in history, with Native Americans traversing the mountains for centuries and miners later establishing routes in the 19th century. The current Grays Peak Trail was originally built in 1865 by Richard Irwin to accommodate tourists on horseback. The hike to Grays and Torreys is considered moderately difficult, gaining over 3,000 feet in elevation. The trail is well-marked, but hikers should be prepared for steep, rocky sections and potential exposure to the elements. Due to the high altitude, it's crucial to acclimate properly and be aware of the risk of altitude sickness. Starting the hike early in the morning is highly recommended to avoid afternoon thunderstorms, which are common in the area. Despite the challenges, the sense of accomplishment and the breathtaking scenery make the Grays and Torreys hike a memorable experience.

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