Pettingell Peak: A Front Range Challenge

Conquer Pettingell Peak: A challenging Front Range hike with rewarding panoramic views and a touch of solitude near Denver.

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Pettingell Peak

Pettingell Peak, a 13,559-foot mountain in Colorado, offers a rewarding hiking experience near Denver. While often overlooked for its taller neighbors, Grays and Torreys, Pettingell provides stunning panoramic views and a challenging climb, especially via its east ridge.

A brief summary to Pettingell Peak

Colorado, US

Local tips

Arrive early at the Herman Gulch Trailhead, especially on weekends, as parking can be limited.
Check weather conditions before hiking, as changeable weather can move in quickly.
Bring plenty of water and snacks, as the hike to Pettingell Peak is strenuous.
Consider using trekking poles for added stability on the rocky terrain.
Be prepared for off-trail navigation and route finding, especially when ascending the east ridge.

Getting There

Driving

The most common approach to Pettingell Peak is via the Herman Gulch Trailhead. From Denver, drive west on I-70 to Exit 218 (Herman Gulch). If coming westbound, turn right at the exit ramp and immediately take the first right to the Herman Gulch trailhead parking. If coming eastbound, turn left off the exit and proceed under I-70 to the parking lot. Parking is free, but the lot fills quickly on weekends, so arrive early. There are no fees to park or hike. Limited overnight parking is allowed.
Walking

From the Herman Gulch Trailhead, follow the Herman Gulch Trail for approximately 3 miles to Herman Lake. The trail gradually ascends through forests and meadows. From Herman Lake, continue off-trail towards Pettingell Peak, choosing either the east ridge scramble or the south slopes ascent. The final approach involves navigating rocky terrain and potentially snowfields, depending on the season. There is no established trail to the summit.

Discover more about Pettingell Peak

Pettingell Peak, standing at 13,559 feet, is the highest point in Grand County, Colorado, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Named after pioneer Jacob N. Pettingell, a prominent resident of Grand Lake, the peak provides a challenging yet accessible hiking experience for those seeking a Front Range adventure. The most popular route to Pettingell Peak begins at the Herman Gulch Trailhead, about an hour's drive from Denver. The well-maintained Herman Gulch Trail leads to Herman Lake, a popular destination in itself, before continuing towards the peak. From the lake, hikers can choose between a scramble up the east ridge or a less technical ascent via the south slopes. The east ridge presents a Class 3 scramble with solid rock, while the south slopes offer a Class 2 hike with a steeper final push. While the Herman Gulch Trail is heavily trafficked, Pettingell Peak sees fewer visitors, offering a sense of solitude. The summit provides stunning views of Rocky Mountain National Park, the Indian Peaks, Grays and Torreys, the Ten Mile Range, and the Gore Range. The peak is also a popular destination for backcountry skiing and snowboarding during the winter months. Be prepared for varied conditions, including loose rocks and the possibility of snowfields, especially earlier in the summer.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Georgetown–Silver Plume Historic District

16.7 km

Explore the Georgetown–Silver Plume Historic District, a stunning blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty in the heart of Colorado's Rockies.

Colorado Central Mill

18.4 km

Discover the rich mining history of Colorado at the Colorado Central Mill, a captivating historical landmark surrounded by stunning mountain scenery.

Cozens Ranch Museum

24.6 km

Uncover the intriguing history of Granby, Colorado at Cozens Ranch Museum, a perfect blend of heritage, community, and exploration.

St Mary's Glacier Trailhead

24.8 km

Explore the stunning St Mary's Glacier Trailhead in Colorado, where breathtaking views and adventurous hiking await every nature enthusiast.

Breckenridge Distillery Restaurant

27.5 km

Experience the best of American cuisine in Breckenridge at the Breckenridge Distillery Restaurant, where local flavors meet mountain charm.

Mount Goliath Natural Area & Dos Chappell Nature Center

28.4 km

Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity at Mount Goliath Natural Area & Dos Chappell Nature Center in the heart of the Colorado Rockies.

Breckenridge Recreation Center

28.7 km

Discover the ultimate recreational experience at Breckenridge Recreation Center, featuring a gym, swimming pool, and rock climbing wall in the heart of Colorado.

Phoenix Gold Mine

29.1 km

Explore the Phoenix Gold Mine in Idaho Springs, Colorado, where history, adventure, and the thrill of gold mining come together in a unique tourist experience.

Country Boy Mine

29.1 km

Discover the rich history of gold mining at Country Boy Mine in Breckenridge, Colorado, where adventure meets the past in a stunning mountain setting.

Moving Mountains - Breckenridge

29.6 km

Discover the perfect vacation home rental in Breckenridge with Moving Mountains, where comfort meets adventure in the heart of the Rockies.

Breckenridge Heritage

29.7 km

Explore the captivating history of Breckenridge at the Breckenridge Heritage site, where the charm of the past meets the beauty of Colorado's landscapes.

BreckConnect Gondola

29.7 km

Discover breathtaking mountain views and unparalleled outdoor adventures at the iconic BreckConnect Gondola in Breckenridge, Colorado.

Epic Discovery at Breckenridge

29.8 km

Experience the thrill of outdoor adventures at Epic Discovery in Breckenridge, where excitement meets breathtaking mountain views and family fun.

Mimi & Pin churros and donuts

29.8 km

Experience the sweetness of Breckenridge at Mimi & Pin, home of delicious churros and donuts in a cozy café atmosphere.

Breckenridge Overlook

29.8 km

Experience the breathtaking views of Breckenridge from the Overlook, an essential stop for nature lovers and photographers in Colorado's Rocky Mountains.

Unmissable attractions to see

Herman Gulch Trailhead

5.2 km

Discover alpine beauty near Dillon, Colorado, with wildflower meadows, mountain vistas, and a pristine lake on the popular Herman Gulch Trail.

Loveland Ski Area

5.5 km

Experience Colorado's authentic ski culture at Loveland Ski Area, offering uncrowded slopes, abundant snow, and a long season near Denver.

Eisenhower-Johnson Tunnels

5.5 km

Drive through the Continental Divide! Experience an engineering marvel at the Eisenhower-Johnson Memorial Tunnel on I-70, just west of Denver.

Butler Gulch Trailhead

6.2 km

Discover vibrant wildflowers, cascading waterfalls, and historic mining remnants on this scenic hike near Parshall, Colorado.

Loveland Pass

7.6 km

Experience breathtaking views and outdoor adventures at Loveland Pass, a high mountain pass on the Continental Divide in the Colorado Rockies.

Chihuahua Lake

11.3 km

Hike to breathtaking alpine beauty at Chihuahua Lake near Dillon, Colorado. A challenging trail with rewarding views and vibrant wildflowers.

Vasquez Peak Wilderness

11.4 km

Discover Colorado's wild side in Vasquez Peak Wilderness: hiking, views, and alpine beauty await near Winter Park.

Gray's & Torrey's Peaks Trailhead

12.8 km

Explore the breathtaking Gray's & Torrey's Peaks Trailhead, an outdoor lover's paradise in the heart of Colorado's stunning wilderness.

Grays and Torreys Summer Trailhead

12.8 km

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

Grays Peak

13.0 km

Discover the breathtaking heights and stunning landscapes at Grays Peak, a premier hiking destination in Colorado's Rocky Mountains.

Tenderfoot Mountain

13.4 km

Hike or bike Tenderfoot Mountain for stunning Dillon Reservoir views and trails through Colorado's beautiful alpine scenery.

Lime - An American Cantina

13.9 km

Keystone's lively cantina with a wide selection of tequilas, hand-shaken margaritas, and delicious Mexican-American dishes in River Run Village.

Keystone Bike Park

13.9 km

Experience the rush of mountain biking at Keystone Bike Park, where adventure meets stunning natural beauty in Colorado's Rockies.

The Argentos Empanadas

13.9 km

Authentic Argentinian empanadas in Keystone's River Run Village. Enjoy savory flavors, friendly service, and a taste of South America in the Rockies.

100 Dercum Square

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A charming park in Keystone's River Run Village, offering year-round activities, stunning views, and a vibrant community atmosphere.

Discover the heartwarming flavors of Breckenridge at Motherloaded Tavern, where delightful dishes meet vibrant cocktails in a cozy mountain setting.

Bird and Cow

30.0 km

Discover Bird and Cow in Breckenridge - where gourmet burgers meet innovative American cuisine in a cozy mountain setting.

Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Mountain Style, Breckenridge's top destination for memorable gifts and mountain-inspired treasures.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Gravity Haus Winter Park

23.5 km

Experience the perfect blend of luxury and adventure at Gravity Haus Winter Park, your gateway to the Rocky Mountains.

Randi's Grill & Pub

23.8 km

Experience authentic Irish cuisine and warm hospitality at Randi's Grill & Pub in Winter Park, a cozy getaway for food lovers and adventure seekers.

Napper Tandy's Irish Pub

30.0 km

Discover the charm of Napper Tandy's Irish Pub in Breckenridge, CO, where authentic Irish food and drinks meet a lively atmosphere.

Prospector

30.1 km

Discover Prospector in Breckenridge, where expertly crafted cocktails and a welcoming atmosphere come together for an unforgettable night out.

Fireside Lounge

30.1 km

Discover the warmth of Fireside Lounge in Breckenridge, a cozy bar perfect for relaxing after mountain adventures with great drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.

Ski Town Chicken Joint

30.2 km

Discover the flavors of Breckenridge at Ski Town Chicken Joint, where delicious comfort food meets a cozy mountain atmosphere.

The Absinthe Bar

30.4 km

Discover the charm of The Absinthe Bar in Breckenridge, where unique cocktails and a cozy atmosphere create unforgettable memories.

Molly Jacks

30.4 km

Experience the lively atmosphere and diverse drink selection at Molly Jacks, a must-visit bar in the heart of Breckenridge, Colorado.

Brooklyn's Tavern and Billiards

30.5 km

Experience the lively atmosphere at Brooklyn's Tavern and Billiards, Breckenridge's favorite bar and pool hall, perfect for relaxation and fun.

Burke and Riley's Irish Pub

30.5 km

Experience the lively atmosphere of Burke and Riley's Irish Pub in Breckenridge, where delicious food, drinks, and live music meet the charm of Ireland.

Cecilia's Nightclub and Cocktail Bar

30.5 km

Experience Breckenridge's nightlife at Cecilia's Nightclub and Cocktail Bar, where cocktails and dancing blend for an unforgettable evening.

Base Nine

31.0 km

Experience the best of Breckenridge at Base Nine, a premier bar with a vibrant atmosphere and an impressive drink selection.

Coppertop Bar & Restaurant

31.1 km

Discover the inviting ambiance of Coppertop Bar & Restaurant in Breckenridge, where delicious food and drinks await after your mountain adventures.

Shakedown Bar

41.3 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Vail at Shakedown Bar, where live music and great drinks create unforgettable memories.

Bridge Street Bar

41.3 km

Discover the lively nightlife at Bridge Street Bar in Vail, Colorado, where great drinks and a vibrant atmosphere await you.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Pettingell Peak: A Front Range Challenge

A brief summary to Pettingell Peak

Local tips

Getting There

Driving

Walking

Unlock the Best of Pettingell Peak

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Pettingell Peak

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Georgetown–Silver Plume Historic District

Colorado Central Mill

Cozens Ranch Museum

St Mary's Glacier Trailhead

Breckenridge Distillery Restaurant

Mount Goliath Natural Area & Dos Chappell Nature Center

Breckenridge Recreation Center

Phoenix Gold Mine

Country Boy Mine

Moving Mountains - Breckenridge

Breckenridge Heritage

BreckConnect Gondola

Epic Discovery at Breckenridge

Mimi & Pin churros and donuts

Breckenridge Overlook

Unmissable attractions to see

Herman Gulch Trailhead

Loveland Ski Area

Eisenhower-Johnson Tunnels

Butler Gulch Trailhead

Loveland Pass

Chihuahua Lake

Vasquez Peak Wilderness

Gray's & Torrey's Peaks Trailhead

Grays and Torreys Summer Trailhead

Grays Peak

Tenderfoot Mountain

Lime - An American Cantina

Keystone Bike Park

The Argentos Empanadas

100 Dercum Square

Essential places to dine

Soupz On

Oaxacan bites

Blue River Bistro

The Canteen Tap House and Tavern

Rootstalk Breckenridge

The Carlin Breckenridge

Tavern Underground

Salt Creek Steakhouse

Breckenridge Tap House

The Gold Pan Saloon

Giampietro Pasta & Pizzeria

Briar Rose Chophouse & Saloon

Tin Plate Pizza

Motherloaded Tavern

Bird and Cow

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Sunshine Herb Corner

Local Experience

Bottle Pass Liquors

Safeway

Breckenridge Ski & Sport

Lace and Lariat

Simply Breck

A Racer's Edge

Breckenridge Shirts & More

Towne Square Mall

Breck ‘N’ Boujee Premium Outlet

Arctic Attitude

Slope Style Ski + Bike

The Shop On Main Street

Mountain Style

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Gravity Haus Winter Park

Randi's Grill & Pub

Napper Tandy's Irish Pub

Prospector