Grays Peak is one of the most popular 14ers to hike in Colorado. Most people ascend via the standard route, but there are other options. Grays Peak via the Eastern Ridge and Mt Edwards makes for a great route with some fun ridge walking, and way fewer people than the standard route.
Begin from the trailhead near the end of Forest Road 260. You’ll walk up the road for a short distance, paralleling Peru Creek. You’ll then turn right off the road and onto nice singletrack trail. After crossing Peru Creek there are two water sources, a small stream and then a small spring. Fill up here if in need of water, as there is none the rest of the route.
The trail makes a single switchback turn to the left and continues ascending up to Argentine Pass. The ascent is long, steady and steep with some exposure in areas. Along the way you’ll have amazing views down the Peru Creek Valley and to Grays Peak. You’ll finally top out at Argentine Pass. Enjoy the views, and try not to get annoyed at the fact that you could’ve driven up here from the other side!
From here it’s all ridge walking to the summit of Grays Peak. Follow the faint trail and cairns up the ridge and over a few small summits. After a climb up Mount Edwards (13,856’) the terrain really gets fun.
The ridge between Edwards and Grays is very enjoyable class 2/easy class 3 terrain with some exposure and spectacular views. You’ll need to use your hands in areas. The ridge makes a couple ups and downs, then becomes less exciting as you near Grays Peak. The final push to the summit is a steep and exhausting climb up the east face.
The trail then tops out on Grays Peak, at an elevation of 14,275 feet. You’re likely to run into more hikers here than you’ve seen all day prior. After enjoying the summit you can make the optional traverse across the saddle to Torreys Peak, or return back down the way you came. Alternatively, if planned in advance you could set up a shuttle and descend via the easier standard route.
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