Sunlight Peak via Needle Creek Trail

If you have a fair amount of hiking/climbing experience and are looking for a fun challenge in Colorado, then you should definitely check out the Sunlight Peak via Needle Creek Trail. This fantastic route will lead you up to the summit of the 39th tallest fourteener in Colorado by means of a non-technical scramble, although to reach the upper summit block you will need to complete a fairly exposed rock climb.

Setting out from the trailhead at the Needleton Flagstop, you will make your way to the southwest alongside the Animas River, before turning to the southeast along Needle Creek. Here, you will make the lengthy journey through the Chicago Basin, climbing uphill alongside the forested creek bank to eventually arrive at the shores of the Twin Lakes.

After taking in the views of the stunning alpine lakes, you will head to the northeast across the rocky terrain and climb up the rugged slopes of Sunlight Peak. After a tough ascent, you will enjoy stunning views of the surrounding San Juan Mountains from an elevation of 14065ft. Take some time here to revel in the magnificent alpine views, before carefully heading back down the trail on the return into the trailhead where you began your adventure.