Columbia Point, Obstruction Peak, Kitty Kat Carson Peak

From the West Colony Lakes TH, near Westcliffe, follow the Humboldt Trail as it zigzags up a steep slope to reach 12,850', on a saddle just west of Humboldt Peak.  Walk west along the ridge to reach the base of a 13,290' point and hike nearly 400' up the somewhat loose ridge to gain the top of the point.  Staying on or near the ridge crest, scramble 0.4 mile along this rugged ridge to reach a large, flat area called "Bears Playground."  Enter the playground near 13,100', turn right and hike northwest toward the top of unnamed point 13,799,' also known as "Obstruction Peak."  Avoid the temptation to hike directly up the rocks by hiking north for a few hundred feet before angling northwest toward the ridge. Once on the ridge crest, turn left and continue to Obstruction's summit.

Your next goal is to gain Kit Carson Mountain's eastern summit which is actually made up of two points - Columbia Point (13,980') and a slightly lower one, often called "Kitty Kat Carson."  Leave Obstruction's summit and continue west down the Class 2/2+ ridge to reach the saddle between Obstruction and Kitty Kat Carson/Columbia Point.  Staying near the right side of the large "bowl" on Kitty Kat's east face, ascend steep Class 2 terrain for 600' to reach the top, where you'll see the summit of Columbia Point only 0.1 mile away.  Continuing west, drop 50' on the south side before ascending to the top of Columbia.

• Suitable Activities: Hiking, Scrambling
• Seasons: June, July, August, September
• Weather: View weather forecast
• View avalanche forecast.

• Length: 13.5 mi
• Elevation Gain: 4,900 ft
• High Point: 13,986 ft

• Land Manager: U.S. Forest Service
  Sangre de Cristo Wilderness Area, San Carlos Ranger District (PSINF)
• Parking Permit Required: USFS Permits & Passes
• Recommended Party Size: 12
• Maximum Party Size: 12
• Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12