La Plata Ellingwood Ridge Hike

If you are one of the brave adventurers keen to take on the La Plata Ellingwood Ridge Hike, then we applaud you. Though taxing, the stimulating terrain and incredible views will distract you from your tired feet and exhaustion. Preparation is a must before this journey, so make sure you have plenty of water, microspikes, gloves, sturdy footwear, a trail GPS, and a good attitude! Additionally, traveling to high elevations will reveal epic vistas, but will likely see you encounter extreme weather conditions; try to summit the peak before noon to mitigate the chance of getting caught in an afternoon storm.

Departing from the La Plata Peak Trailhead, the La Plata Ellingwood Ridge Hike tracks south along the South Fork Lake Creek Road to an intersection. Here, turn left onto the La Plata Peak Trail, then left again at the next in order to hook onto the La Plata Peak Ellingwood Ridge Trail. Here is where the trail GPS comes in handy, as the La Plata Peak Ellingwood Trail is primitive! Follow this path east through the woodlands, then south up the vertiginous terrain to the narrow ridge. Let the epic mountain views motivate you as you make your way to La Plata Peak.

Soon you will summit La Plata Peak. Rest, rehydrate, and revel in the panoramic alpine scenery from here. When you are ready, begin your descent along the La Plata Peak Trail, which will guide you down to the first intersection. Here, you will take the South Fork Lake Creek Road back to the trailhead.