Climbing Mount Lindsey | An Exciting Class 3 Climb
Please Follow Leave No Trace Ethics!
This area is increasingly popular and experiencing heavy impacts from public use. Please stay on the designated trail, pack out trash, practice good trail etiquette, and leave pets at home. Click here to learn more.
Mt. Lindsey is largely privately owned, however permission is granted to climb the peak via the northwest gully or ridge routes. These are both class 3 climbs, requiring comfort with exposure and a bit of scrambling skill. The Gully route here is best used in early summer when there’s still stable snow to climb. In later summer you may wish to climb the more exposed but stable northwest ridge. If you decide to try climbing Mount Lindsey, you can plan your trip with this free Mount Lindsey Route Guide.
New to 14ers? Check Out my 14er Beginners Guide Here to Get Started!
MOUNT LINDSEY IS CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC AT THIS TIME.
On March 3, 2023, the Senate Judiciary voted down a bill that would’ve protected access to private land by strengthening landowner liability protections. As a result, the landowners of Mount Sherman 14er decided to keep the peaks closed to public access for the foreseeable future. Click here to learn more.
You can help us re-secure public access by taking action in three ways:
1. Click here to sign the petition urging lawmakers to support access.
2. Click here to join the Grassroots support group to stay udated about future developments.
3. Visit www.fixCRUS.org to learn more or support the Coalition’s work.
Please respect this closure as a coalition of partners works to re-secure public access to these peaks. Thank you for understanding.
Climbing Mount Lindsey: Fast Facts
- Standard Route: Northwest Gully
- Trailhead: Huerfano/Lily Lake
- Elevation Gain: 3,500 feet
- Round-Trip Distance: 8.25 Miles
- Difficulty Level: Class 3 Climb
- Range: Sangre de Christo
Remember Mountain Safety Best Practices!
14ers can be dangerous due to altitude sickness, lightning, variable weather conditions, loose rock, and exposure. If you are new to hiking and climbing 14ers, click here and take a minute to review our safety tips and advice.
Climbing Mount Lindsey - Northwest Gully Route
Mount Lindsey is currently closed to public access, which means climbing Mount Lindsey is not currently allowed. We will add the route description back when public access to this area is restored.
If you plan on climbing Mount Lindsey, use this topographical map to guide you on your way. Save this image on your phone and print out a copy to bring with you as a backup in case something happens to your phone.
Before climbing Mount Lindsey, it’s important to carefully research the weather forecasts. Take some time to research the weather conditions for your climbing using these sources to get started:
Climbing Mount Lindsey is an inherently high-risk activity – do so at your own risk, and use the following best practices to help keep yourself safe.
- Research your route and bring a compass & topographic map.
- Check the weather forecast and stay home during inclement weather.
- Bring the Ten Essentials and the knowledge/skill to use them.
- Leave your plans with someone back home along with a detailed itinerary.
- Start early, and end early: Be back at tree line by noon to avoid lightning.
- Bring a buddy on your first ascent, preferably someone experienced.
NEW TO 14ERS? CHECK OUT MY BEGINNERS GUIDE FOR A SAFE FIRST SUMMIT!
Climbing Mount Lindsey is an inherently high-risk, dangerous activity. There is a significant risk of injury or death, even with proper planning and experience. Those using my Mt Lindsey route guide accept all risks associated with climbing 14ers and do not hold this website or any information they obtain from it liable for any accidents or injuries that occur while engaging in these activities on Colorado’s high peaks. It is each hiker or climber’s responsibility to research their route carefully, bring the ten essentials, and practice other safe practices, though even these precautions do not eliminate risk and danger. Visit these summits at your own risk.
Alex is an Eagle Scout, climber, and environmental policy expert located in Denver, Colorado. He created The Next Summit to help others stay safe exploring the mountains and advocate to preserve the peaks for the future. Follow him on Linkedin or Twitter or click here to contact him.
