Elevation
14,048′
Difficulty
Class 1
Distance
5.75 mi
Elev. gain
2,500′
Nearest town
Lake City
County
Hinsdale
Range
San Juan
Rank
#40
Handies Peak is the easiest 14er in the San Juans and a popular choice for first-time San Juan 14er hikers. The American Basin route is a stunning class 1 hike through one of Colorado's best wildflower basins.
Standard Route
From the American Basin trailhead (4WD access from Lake City), a well-defined trail climbs through wildflower meadows and willow flats before topping out on Handies' broad summit. 5.75 miles round trip, 2,500 feet of gain.
What to Expect
American Basin in mid-July is one of the best wildflower displays in Colorado — plan accordingly for photos. The road in is rough; high clearance recommended.
Related Reading
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