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Quandary Peak

Trip

Hiking – Quandary Peak via West Ridge

UPDATE: We are now climbing the EAST RIDGE. We will have high winds throughout the day. Meeting time is 8am in the STANDARD Quandary parking lot just off Hwy 9. Let's go climb Quandary Peak, 14,272', the 14er next to Breckenridge via the Class 2 EAST Ridge route, this coming Saturday, November 8, 2025. NOTE: This is a change from the original idea of climbing the West Ridge. The winds are causing us to move to the East Ridge STANDARD route.

Contacts

Britt Jones
Britt Jones
Primary Leader
  • Sat, Nov 8, 2025
  • Pikes Peak
  • Hiking
  • Adults
  • Challenging
  • Mileage: 7.2 mi
  • Elevation Gain: 3,450 ft
  • High Point Elevation: 14,272 ft
  • Maximum Wind: 35 kts
  • Pace: 1.5

This is a Class 2 climb, Here is the East Ridge route info on 14ers.com:

https://www.14ers.com/route.php?route=quan1

Please email me, what peaks you've climbed in the last 6 months? What is your average hiking pace? What is your winter climbing experience?

Trip leader, Britt Jones: 719-661-4777

jbrittjones@protonmail.com

Let's meet at the Standard EAST RIDE parking area at NOW 8am. Not 7am!

From Breckenridge, drive 8 miles south on Colorado 9. Turn right (west) on the 850 (Blue Lakes) Road. Trailhead parking is on the right, just after you leave the highway. If you took the Breckenridge shuttle, it will drop you off here.

We will start from here up the EAST RIDGE. We are no longer going the West Ridge route due to high winds.

From Breckenridge, drive 8 miles south on Colorado 9. On a sharp corner of Colorado 9, turn west onto the 850 road (Blue Lakes road). Continue on Blue Lakes road as it climbs west. Near 1.4 miles, if the gate is closed, you'll have to park in this area because Colorado Springs Utilities has closed the remaining road to the dam. Follow the road another 3/4 mile to reach the dam.

Route/Place

Quandary Peak

Roster
Required Equipment

Required Equipment

Bring your 10 Essentials plus gear to endure winter conditions. I would also recommend a helmet, and microspikes and trekking poles. Don't forget illumination for after sunset.

Conditions will be mostly dry but with wind. Come prepared with extra layers and wind protection. Be prepared to cover ALL skin.

No bladders with drinking tubes. The tubes will freeze. Use nalgene style water bottles. You may consider boiling your water before leaving home or at the TH.

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