La Plata Peak (Fourteener)
La Plata Peak, Colorado's fifth highest peak at 14,336 feet, is accessed via the La Plata Gulch Trail #1474. This trail is 4.3 miles long with a 4,350 foot elevation gain and is the recommended route to the peak.
La Plata Peak and La Plata Gulch Trail #1474 are located in the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness which was established in 1980 to preserve its quality, character, and integrity. This area is intended to be a place where the imprint of humans is substantially unnoticed; where natural processes are the primary influences, and human activity is limited to primitive recreation and minimum tools. Please follow Leave No Trace Outdoor Ethics to ensure that current and future generations experience this special place in its natural condition.
The U.S. Forest Service has many partners, including Colorado Fourteeners Initiative that help protect and preserve Colorado's 14,000 foot peaks, or "Fourteeners", through active stewardship and public education.
General Information
- Mountain weather is unpredictable and can change quickly. Be prepared with rain gear and extra layers of warm clothing. Always check the weather forecast before heading out.
- Thunderstorms occur frequently in the afternoons, so plan your trip accordingly. Also, keep in mind thunderstorms build rapidly, so keep an eye on the weather and get below timberline at the first sign of a thunderstorm. Follow these lightening safety tips.
- Combat altitude sickness by acclimating gradually and staying hydrated. If symptoms (i.e., severe headache, dizziness, or nausea) do occur, immediately descend to a lower elevation.
- At high altitudes, sunlight is much more intense and the air is much drier. Wear sunscreen and a hat, and drink plenty of fluids. Always carry a map and compass, and know how to use them.
Getting There
Latitude / Longitude
Latitude: 39.06790164
Longitude: -106.5049135
Elevation
14,336 feet
Directions
The trailhead for accessing La Plata Gulch Trail #1474 is 14.5 miles west of the US Hwy 24 and US Hwy 82 junction at Twin Lakes, CO.
Facility and Amenity Information
Restrooms
Restrooms are not available at this site.
Water
Potable water is not available at this site.
