Trinchera Peak via Northeast slope

Trinchera Peak is the northern most 13er in the Culebra Range of the Southern Sangre de Cristos.  Take I-25 south to exit 52 into Walsenburg, turn west on US-160, turn south on CO-12 with driving through La Veta and Cuchara, turn right onto FSR 422 that is a well-maintained dirt road, follow FSR 422 until reaching a junction in the road, turn left onto FSR 436 with seeing Blue Lake Campground on the right, drive a short way up FSR 436 until seeing a designated parking spot. From the parking spot walk up FSR 436 that becomes a steep and rocky 4X4 road. Continue up FSR 436 until leaving the road onto tundra near 12000' to start bushwhacking up the northeast slope toward the summit. The terrain gets steeper with areas of lose talus when you reach the upper east ridge near 13100'. After about 400' of Class 2 hiking the mostly flat summit is gained. Enjoy views of the neighboring chain of 13ers such as Leaning North Peak, Leaning South Peak, Cuatro Peak, and Mount Maxwell; the East and West Spanish Peaks; and Culebra Peak a privately owned 14er.

• Suitable Activities: Hiking
• Seasons: June, July, August, September, October
• Weather: View weather forecast

• Length: 8.5 mi
• Elevation Gain: 3,015 ft
• High Point: 13,522 ft

• Land Manager: U.S. Forest Service
  San Carlos Ranger District (PSINF)
• Parking Permit Required: USFS Permits & Passes
• Recommended Party Size: 8
• Maximum Party Size: 8
• Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 8