hiking 14ers in colorado
Mount Shavano
This unassuming peak is beautifully nestled within the San Isabel National Forest near Salida and Poncha Springs, Colorado. Mt. Shavano reaches an impressive height of 14,229 ft (4337 meters).
Mount Shavano received its name in honor of Chief Shavano of the Ute tribe and is widely known for its heavenly “Angel of Shavano” – a large snowfield that depicts what looks to be an angel with its wings stretching outward. Boasting both a Class 2 hike and stunning scenery, Mt. Shavano is one any adventurer would want to check off their 14er list.
Angel of Shavano
Trail Routes
Having only 2 trail routes, both are a Class 2 with the Angel of Shavano trail suggested as being the snow route for winter months. There is a third optional trail route for Shavano + Tabequache.
Angel of Shavano – To reach the Angel of Shavano trailhead, from Maysville, take a right onto County Road 240. After roughly 3 miles, the Angel of Shavano Group Area can be seen on the left, and the trailhead is located on the right.
Black Gulch – The Blank Gulch trailhead can be reached by turning west on County Road 140 from US Hwy 285, about 20 miles south of Buena Vista. After roughly 1.5 miles on County Road 140, turn right onto County Road 250.
The pavement becomes dirt, continuing straight for about 4 miles until reaching a fork in the road – stay left ( Forest Road 252 ) around 6 miles, crossing the cattle guard. The trailhead is a short distance ahead. East Slope standard route is a difficulty level Class 2 and is roughly a 9-mile roundtrip.
