Uncompahgre Peak #239

Uncompahgre Peak Trail #239 begins at the Nellie Creek Trailhead at the end of Nellie Creek Road, FSR #877 and ends at Uncompahgre Peak within the Uncompahgre Wilderness where Wilderness Regulations apply. The trail travels through high elevation alpine tundra and offers spectacular views of the peaks over 13,000 feet.  After entering the trees, the trail follows Nellie Creek and quickly reaches tree line where Uncompahgre Peak comes into view to the west.  At 0.9 miles it reaches the junction with the Big Blue Creek Trail #232 and starts to climb steadily to the west.  Approximately one mile past the Big Blue Creek Trail junction, the trail heads south toward the south ridge of Uncompahgre Peak.  At 13,000 feet, the trail reaches the south ridge and climbs steadily on the south ridge's eastern face until it reaches the south edge of the peak.  After a few switchbacks, the trail crosses to the west side of the ridge and becomes difficult to follow.  Hikers must scale one of the two chutes which will reach the top of Uncompahgre's cliffs where the trail resumes.  Continue past the south edge of the tilted platform for approximately another quarter mile to the summit.