Apr 10
27
Redcloud & Sunshine Peaks
Distance: 9.8-11.4 miles RT (depending on trailhead)
Elevation Gain: 4150′-5100′
Starting Elevation: 10,400′
Rating: Difficult
Redcloud & Sunshine are 2 more of Colorado’s illustrious 14ers and since they are so close, they are generally hiked together. This makes for a rather long day hike with some good elevation gain but if you take a break on Redcloud and enjoy some lunch, it makes it all worthwhile.
The vista stretches for miles and it can make you feel like all the day to day worries are far away and it helps to put things into perspective. From the top of Redcloud you will descend into the saddle and then ascend Sunshine from there. I can’t believe we forgot our camera on this outing! This means a return trip is in my future.
The traditional return trip is back down to the saddle and then back up Redcloud so in a way you are climbing 3 14ers in one outing! There are some trail descriptions that tell you to descend west from the saddle but this is not recommended due to overuse and a steep scree field. Unfortunately, we forgot our camera on this climb so no photos of this gorgeous trip.
After this long hike it is nice to be able to overnight in Lake City and since this whole area is full of hiking opportunities, I would recommend one of the many cabin rentals in the area such as Lakeview Cabins. They also have some good options for vacation homes or condos.
Gear Recommendations (besides the 10 essentials):
Hydration Pack
Heavy Duty Boots for good ankle support
Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
Extra food
National Geographic Map #141 for Telluride, Lake City, Ouray and Silverton
Gerry Roach’s book Colorado’s Fourteeners
