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| East Ridge   | 
| Page Type: Route Location: Colorado, United States, North America Lat/Lon: 38.13500°N / 107.573°W Route Type: Scramble Time Required: Most of a day Difficulty: Class 2+
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| Page By: Aaron Johnson Created/Edited: Mar 17, 2003 / Jan 19, 2007 Object ID: 157858 Hits: 1076 Loading... Page Score: 86.96% - 3 Votes Loading... Vote: Log in to vote |
Approach & MapSee the GETTING THERE section on the MAIN PAGE.
Route DescriptionFrom the trailhead, the trail (FS-218) climbs southwest through the forest to a ridge line south of Courthouse. On a broad saddle in a small clearing marked with a trail sign, turn right onto the Courthouse Mountain Trail (FS-144), which leads all the way to the top. The trail that leads north toward the mountain, which is briefly visible after a walk through the forest, appearing as a great buttress of buff colored cliffs. Passing through some trees, you’ll climb up a steep clearing on a relentlessly steep trail to an overlook with an inspiring view of Chimney Rock and the Cimarron Valley to the north.
The route then climbs west, winding upslope through the trees. This section is very steep and will test the traction of your boots. Breaking timberline through cliff and pinnacle defenses, evidence of foot traffic will indicate the route. Avoid the inclination to go to the right, always climbing upward. A number of rock bands must be climbed, as well as a maze of boulders (Class 2+ or easy Class 3) as you work your way west up the increasingly steep slope. Some cairns are present.
Above the boulders, climb some steep tundra along a rock wall to a final scramble through a notch in another rock band just below the summit (Class 2). A steep trail leads up the last bit of tundra to the interesting summit. The top has a number of high points that all make great perches for one of Colorado’s finest, isolated alpine views.
Return the same route.
DISTANCE: 4 miles
GAIN: 1792 feet
Route PhotosThese pictures were graciously submitted by SP member "theplugger" as I had requested, upon learning she had climbed Courthouse and knowing the quality of the photos would be excellent. Thanks RA!
Essential GearA 4WD vehicle for the approach to the trailhead is probably a good idea for clearance purposes, however 2WDs can usually negotiate this road.
Standard day hike equipment is fine. Boots with good traction are highly recommended, especially in wet conditions.
For winter conditions, crampons and ice axe are the minimum requirements in addition to standard winter gear and apparel.
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San Juan Range
