Ellingwood Point

Follow the Blanca Peak route from Lake Como up the basin past Blue Lakes and Crater Lake to the Blanca-Ellingwood saddle. Most people climb Blanca first, return to the saddle, and then follow the connecting ridge northwest toward Ellingwood, staying on or just below the crest on Class 2 ledges and talus, to the summit at 14,042 feet. Return to the saddle and descend the basin. From a low camp on Lake Como Road the combined day is about 17 miles and 6,800 feet of gain; from Lake Como, about 8 miles and 3,300 feet.

The traverse is short and well cairned, with mild exposure on the ledges below the crest and a few Class 2+ steps. It adds about an hour and 600 feet to the Blanca day. Ellingwood's summit gives the best view of Blanca's north face and Little Bear's ridge. There is a direct route up Ellingwood's south face from Crater Lake that avoids Blanca, but it is loose and no faster.

Lake Como Road from Colorado 150 north of Blanca. Passenger cars park in the first mile or two; capable 4WD vehicles get to 9,500 or 10,000 feet; the upper road is for modified rigs. No fee or permit.

Mid-July through September for dry rock in the basin and on the traverse. The saddle and the ridge catch wind, and the traverse is a poor place in a storm because the retreat goes back over the saddle. Get to Blanca early and make the decision about Ellingwood there.

Camp at Lake Como or along the road below it; the lake has established sites and is the last reliable water. Alamosa, about 35 minutes from the road's start, is the supply town. Little Bear Peak shares the camp for parties with Class 4 experience, and Great Sand Dunes National Park is a half hour north for a rest day.