Outbound Collective logo

Hike the Spearhead

Larimer County, Colorado

5.0/5
based on 1 reviews

Details

Distance

12.44 miles

Elevation Gain

3300 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Kyle Frost

A Class III hiking alternative to one of the most iconic and unique peaks in Rocky Mountain National Park.

Beginning from the Glacier Gorge trailhead, follow trail signs towards Mills Lake. At Mills, continue onward past Black Lake, and then continue hiking up into the incredible basin above Black Lake. Spearhead will be unmissable.

Once in the basin, head to the north side of Spearhead. By hugging the base of Spearhead and wrapping around to this north side, you'll eventually encounter an obvious ramp heading up to the ridge. Follow this ramp up, and then pick your poison for the rest of the way up to the summit ridge. With careful route choices, you should never have to exceed Class II, although there are plenty of options for some fun Class IV variations.

Follow the summit ridge to the left, eventually reaching the precipitous summit of Spearhead. The last section to the summit itself is very exposed, so step carefully.

Read More

Download the Outbound mobile app

Find adventures and camping on the go, share photos, use GPX tracks, and download maps for offline use.

Get the app
Download GPX File

Features

Hiking
Forest
Lake
Scenic

Hike the Spearhead Reviews

This area is one of the most beautiful in the park. You pass multiple lakes on your way to Spearhead each getting progressively less traveled. The views once you pass Black Lake are really amazing.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Hike to Jewel Lake

Winter Hike to Loch Vale

Black Lake Trail

Alberta Falls Trail

Mills Lake via Glacier Gorge Trailhead

The Loch Vale Hike