Overview
 One of Colorado's Hundred Highest! (#93)
This shy little peak sits quitely approximately one mile north of its much more famous, and much more often climbed, neighbor Mount Lindsey. While not a "14er," Huerfano (or, technically, Unnamed summit 13,828 on the USGS maps) IS one of the hundred highest peaks in Colorado (often better known as the "Centennials") - a group of peaks that should not be overlooked as they offer an ambitious climber views and solitude that is simply not available on the 14ers these days. The views of Mount Lindsey. , Blanca Peak, and Ellingwood Point you will see from Huerfano are unmatched, and you will almost certainly be alone to enjoy them.
Getting There
90% of this climb follows the same trail one would use for Mt. Lindsey. To get to the Huerfano River Trailhead, take Interstate 25 to Walsenburg, Colorado - exit 52. In Walsenburg, head west and then north on Colorado Highway 69 for 25 miles to Gardner. Just past Gardner, turn west on an exit marked for Red Wing. Follow this first paved, then 2wd dirt, and finally 4wd road for 23 miles until it dead ends at the trailhead. The last mile or so will probably require a high clearance 4wd vehicle.
From the trailhead, take the Huerfano River trail south into the beautiful Blanca Basin. Stay left a little over a mile in where the trail forks for Lilly lake. Cross the Huerfano River a little thereafter (tricky in high water), and continue along the well defined trail as it turns east and sharply ascends a long grassy valley leading into a 12,000 foot basin under the stunning north slopes of Mt. Lindsey. Continue on the Mt. Lindsey climber's trail to the Lindsey/Iron Nipple Saddle. At this point, Huerfano Peak can be seen just to the northeast. The well defined trail will head south to Mt. Lindsey at this point.
Turn north at the saddle, and ascend a gradual class 2 slope toward the steep bluffs of the Iron Nipple. After crossing through a prominent notch, decend below the major difficulties of the south face of the iron nipple, and continue on an ascending traverse of a boulder field to regain the Iron Nipple/Huerfano Peak connecting ridge. Continue on mellow, grassy, class 1 and 2 slopes to the summit of Huerfano. The final 50 yards to the summit hold an interseting suprise - the gentle slopes stop abruptly at a false summit, with a short, jagged connecting ridge running over to the true summit.
Red Tape
No permits are required and camping is plentyful. Pay close attention not to trespass in the Singing River Ranch - which you will drive through en route.
Camping
There are no developed campsites at the trailhead, but plenty of good spots abound all allong the road. Some parties prefer to backpack a few miles in on the trail and set up camp in the charming basin at 12,000 feet. Either way take note: THIS IS A NOTORIOUS BEAR VALLEY. Many have had unpleasant run-ins with the bears in the Huerfano valley, so make sure you take all necessary precautions to avoid late night visitors.
Mountain Conditions
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Sangre de Cristo Mountains
