Mount Lady Washington Hike

Like we said, the Mount Lady Washington Trail is underrated. Though strenuous, it is impressively scenic. This adventure shares a path with the well-worn Longs Peak Trail for much of the hike, so expect to share the trail with fellow adventurers, especially on summer weekends. Parking at the trailhead is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot. If you hope to avoid the crowds, try a weekday adventure or a trip in the off-season. Though this escapade is not the most demanding in the RMNP, sections of the trail are technical, and only those with hiking experience should attempt. Pack plenty of water and wear layers as insurance against windy conditions at the summit. Note the Rocky Mountain National Park requires a pass; they can be purchased online or on-site.

This hike exhibits the diversity of typographies in the Front Range. The Mount Lady Washington Hike is technical but picturesque. Hike below the timberline before ascending into alpine tundras abundant with wildflowers at up a rock talus to the summit. This hike is ideal for those conditioning to eventually summit at Colorado 14er, but don’t get us wrong, it is still demanding. After you graduate the treeline, you will be overwhelmed with the sights of the encompassing craggy peaks in the RMNP, and these vistas warrant a photoshoot, so make sure your camera is charged before beginning your adventure.

Once your hiking boots are laced, and your water bottles are filled, you are ready for the Mount Lady Washington Hike. Embark on your adventure from the Longs Peak Trailhead. From here, track northwest on the Longs Peak Trail. This segment of the hike will likely be heavily trafficked. Hike the Longs Peak trail beneath the tree shade and along Alpine Brook. The trail clears the timberline at the Battle Mountain Group Site. At this point, the towering cliffs of Longs Peak will leave you speechless.

You will encounter a junction at the Battle Mountain Group Site, veer left and continue this path up a boulder field. Ascend the rocky terrain to the next intersection. At this point, you will break away from the entrenched trails and ascend the alpine tundra to the summit of Mount Lady Washington. Here, there are also solar-powered washrooms. Ascent the Mount Lady Washington Trail west and follow the rock cairns lining the path. Scramble up the steep, rocky talus, minding your footing. The rearmost push to the summit is the most technical; take your time and be careful.

Eventually, you will summit Mount Lady Washington, yay! Pat yourself on the back and rehydrate. After you recuperate, revel in the breathtaking views from atop the mountain. Mount Lady Washington is one of three peaks that compose the Chasm Lake cirque, along with Longs Peak and Mount Meeker. Enjoy the expansive Front Range vistas from the summit and notice intrepid adventurers scaling the Longs Peak ‘Diamond’. Appreciate the grandeur of Longs Peak and the RMNP before commencing your return.

When you are rested and rehydrated, begin your descent. To get back to the trailhead, simply retrace your steps back. As you descend the summit of Mount Lady Washington, be mindful of loose rocks. Take your time, mind your footing, and backtrack to the trailhead and parking lot.

Trail Highlights

Mount Lady Washington

Mount Lady Washington is one of the Colorado 13ers. Sitting at 13281ft, it is not the most impressive peak in the Rocky Mountain National Park, but the vista from the summit is incomparable. Mount Lady Washington is ranked 416th on the list of peaks in Colorado, but it holds the 34th position of 59 in the Front Range! Though not the tallest, or most prominent, the vistas of the Longs Peak ‘Diamond’ from the summit make up for its unexciting summit. Mount Lady Washington is one of three peaks that compose the Chasm Lake cirque, along with Longs Peak and Mount Meeker.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Tall is Mount Lady Washington.

Mount Lady Washington sits at an elevation of 13281ft.

Is the Mount Lady Washington Hike Hard?

Yes, the Mount Lady Washington Hike is difficult and should only be attempted by experienced hikers.