Sharkstooth Peak is in the La Plata Mountains, part of the San Juans, and is a prominent landmark although it is not nearly the highest peak in the area. It has a distinctive shape, but its "low" height makes it easy to dismiss in Colorado. That is a mistake because this is a beautiful peak in a beautiful area that offers an easy approach, a fun but moderately challenging climb, and solitude that is hard to find atop Colorado's more famous summits.

Getting There

From the western end of the small town of Mancos, follow CR 42 north until it enters the national forest and becomes FR 561. After the Aspen Guard Station, go right on FR 350. Keep right at subsequent junctions (there are two of them) until you reach the signed Sharkstooth Trailhead about 19 miles from Mancos. There is good signage from Mancos. Hesperus Mountain looms above you to the right; it is brilliant at sunset. There are no real campsites at road's end, and there may be sheep around, so sleep in your SUV or arrive early. The trailhead is at 10,900'. The last mile is rough but will usually be passable to passenger cars. You might need 4WD early in the season or after a good rain.

An alternate approach is to take the 4WD road up La Plata Canyon to Kennebec Pass and use the Highline Trail. This approach is much longer but does traverse the La Platas and could make a great point-to-point trip if you have two cars.

Summit Views

Red Tape

None as of August 2005. You may have to share the area with sheep.

When To Climb

June-September. Earlier or later is pushing it with road conditions. The trailhead will be inaccessible to cars during winter and is too far from town for most sane people to try on skis or snowshoes.

Camping

Most of the terrain is too steep for camping. There is one campground along the way, and dispersed camping in the national forest is available. It takes about an hour to get to the trailhead from Mancos, so I recommend sleeping in the car at the trailhead and getting an early start since this area of Colorado is notorious for powerful summer storms that often start before noon.

Mountain Conditions

Check with rangers for the San Juan National Forest. Phone # 970-247-4874.

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