Hiking Handies Peak | East Slopes Nonstandard Route Guide

Handies’ East Slopes climb from the lush forests of Grizzly Gulch to one of the San Juan’s most panoramic summits. The trail is well-defined but steadily steep, with a few short rocky scrambles near the top. Aim to be back below treeline by early afternoon—summer storms here build fast.

Looking for the standard southwest slopes route? Find it here.

0.0 mi – Trailhead (≈ 10,350 ft)

Cross the sturdy wooden bridge and immediately begin a lung-warming climb through spruce-fir forest. Log and stone steps keep erosion down—step carefully in the middle to preserve them.

0.6 mi – Upper Meadow (≈ 11,200 ft)

The grade eases as you break into a picture-perfect meadow dotted with willows. Follow the right (south) bank of the creek; early season meltwater may braid across the path—use existing rocks or logs rather than widening new tracks.

Leave No Trace Tip: Walk single-file in the center of the trail, even when muddy, to protect fragile tundra edges.

1.6 mi – Treeline (≈ 11,800 ft)

Say goodbye to the last spruce. Ahead rises Handies’ imposing east face. At 12,000 ft the path angles right, away from the main creek, climbing a broad cirque toward the north ridge. Expect 2–3 stream crossings in June; waterproof footwear or quick-dry shoes help.

2.0 mi – Mid-Cirque Ramp (≈ 12,200–12,400 ft)

Rugged tread and loose stones mark the next half-mile. Keep a steady pace—altitude catches many hikers here. A sharp right then long ascending switchback brings you to gentler talus benches beside the ridge.

2.65 mi – High Traverse (≈ 12,600 ft)

A tight left turn points you directly beneath the summit ridge. Wildflowers pepper these slopes mid-summer; stay on rock or bare soil to protect them.

3.2 mi – Ridge Access (≈ 13,450 ft)

Short, steep switchbacks claw up the final headwall. In early summer lingering snow sometimes blocks the official track—if so, many parties climb a narrow notch to climber’s right and scramble leftward above the snow (still Class 2, but hands help).

3.4 mi – North Ridge (≈ 13,600 ft)

Turn left (west) onto the broad ridge. The next 0.4 mi gains about 440 ft. The tread braids; pick the most durable line—stable rock over loose scree—to limit erosion.

3.8 mi – Handies Peak Summit (14,048 ft)

The incline softens for the last hundred vertical feet—catch your breath, savor the sweeping views of the Grenadiers, Wetterhorn, and the Rio Grande Pyramid. Sign the register, re-fuel, hydrate, and snap those photos.

Descent & Safety Reminders

• Reverse the route, yielding to uphill hikers.
• Plan to drop below treeline (≈ 11,800 ft) before 1 p.m.—lightning frequently strikes exposed ridges.
• Pack out all trash, leftover food, and even biodegradable items like orange peels.
• If you packed microspikes or an ice axe for early-season snow, keep them handy—the descent is where slips happen.