Horn Peak

Horn Peak is a 13,000+ foot mountain located in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains near Westcliffe, CO. This peak is most commonly accessed via Horn Peak Trail. This hike is 9.1 miles long and gains 4,508 feet of elevation.

This hike starts from the Horn Creek Trailhead. There are vault toilets available here. Begin hiking southwest towards Rainbow Trail. After 0.4 miles, you will reach a junction and turn right onto Rainbow Trail. You will be hiking gradually uphill amongst coniferous trees. Another 0.2 miles will bring you to another junction. Go right here to stay on Rainbow Trail. Continue on this trail for 0.6 more miles before turning left onto Horn Peak Trail. The trail gets steeper here, and it is also very rocky in some sections. After 0.6 miles, the trail will flatten out. This lasts for just 0.2 miles, and then the trail gets steep again. After another 0.4 miles of hiking, the trail will cross Hennequin Creek. Then the trail continues uphill to gain the ridge that will lead you to the summit.

After 1.2 miles, you will break treeline and have a great view of the summit ridge. You will also see a false summit ahead. After 1.4 miles of steep uphill hiking, you will reach the false summit. Continue uphill for another 0.5 miles to reach the summit of Horn Peak. From the summit, you will have great views of the Dry Lakes to the south. You will also be able to see many of the other peaks in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Once you have taken ample time to enjoy the sights, turn around and retrace your steps to return to the trailhead.

Horn Peak is open for hiking year round, but the best conditions are in the summer months. Dogs are allowed on this trail, but they must be on a leash.