IPW - Arapahoe Traverse

IPW restrictions for permits, parking, and entry vary by season and trailhead. Go here for current information.  NOTE: Overnight/Day Use Permit  Required.

NOTE: Heavy Use; parking fills quickly.  Think about bringing a bag to collect trash on your climb out. Group size limited to 12.

Route: Out/Back

• 0.0: Approach: Park/Start: Fourth of July Trail Head; ascend via Arapaho Pass Trail for  2.2 miles (~1200' gain) reaching tree line at about 1.7 miles, continue on to Fourth of July Mine.
• 2.2: Junction: Go East (Right) on Arapaho Glacier Trail, trail becomes steeper with South Arapaho Peak in view. Ascend `1.8 miles on steep trail to saddle between South Arapaho Peak (West) and Old Baldy Peak (East) (rock shelter.)
• 4.0: Saddle: Junction: Go NW on Arapahoe Glacier Trail.
• 4.2: Trail evolves to Class 3 Scrambling, follow the SE ridge to South Arapaho Peak Summit.
• 4.5: Scramble Class 3-4 to North Arapaho Peak: Follow the ridge on a climber's trail initially.
  • Ridge Scramble is ~.7; scramble route stays on the ridge crest (or slightly left)
  • CRUX: Class 4 Downclimb, some parties use rope here (which can be left in place for the return trip.)
• 5.2: Summit North Arapaho Peak (Big Carin), return via same route
• 10.4: Fourth of July Trailhead

Detailed Route Description: Guidebook: CO Scrambles (CMC Press)

• Suitable Activities: Scrambling
• Climbing Category: Basic Alpine Climb
• Seasons: June, July, August, September
• Weather: View weather forecast
• View avalanche forecast.

• Difficulty: Difficult
• Length: 10.4 mi
• Elevation Gain: 3,500 ft
• High Point: 13,502 ft

• Land Manager: U.S. Forest Service
  Indian Peaks Wilderness Area, Boulder Ranger District (ARNF)
• Parking Permit Required: USFS Permits & Passes
• Recommended Party Size: 12
• Maximum Party Size: 12
• Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12