Wilson Peak: Summiting the Mountain on the Coors Can
In the dim pre-dawn light, I roused myself from sleep, blinking away the remnants of slumber. Grateful for having packed my gear the night before, I swiftly donned my hiking attire and made my way to the lobby of The Hotel Telluride.
A year back, I was extended an invitation to join a select group of media professionals for the exclusive “Crack a Coors” preview, a unique offering by The Hotel Telluride that grants guests the opportunity to ascend the mountain depicted on the iconic Coors beer can. This mountain is none other than Wilson Peak, a majestic Colorado 14er towering at an elevation of 14,017 feet, nestled amidst the breathtaking peaks surrounding Telluride and Mountain Village. Alongside Mount Wilson, El Diente, and Gladstone, Wilson Peak forms part of a stunning panorama that beckons adventurers far and wide. While the guided hike provided in this package is a popular choice, Wilson Peak can also be conquered independently, albeit with some precautions. Here are my insights for summiting Wilson Peak.
Commence Early
Our group set out from the hotel at 4 a.m., arriving at the Rock of Ages trailhead around 4:45 a.m., well before daybreak. The initial leg of the hike traverses through dense woodland, necessitating the use of headlamps to navigate the dimly lit path. Even beyond the treeline, where moonlight is scarce, headlamps proved indispensable for negotiating sections of scree and minimizing the risk of injury.
Aside from reducing the likelihood of encountering afternoon storms, an early start offers the added bonus of witnessing a spectacular sunrise above the treeline.
Respect Private Property
The Rock of Ages trail traverses through a segment of private land that was off-limits to hikers until 2011. Following an agreement between the United States Forest Service and the landowner, access to Wilson Peak via the Rock of Ages trail was granted. While trekking through this terrain, it’s imperative to adhere strictly to the designated trail to avoid any trespassing issues.
For those seeking alternative routes to summit Wilson Peak and neighboring peaks without encroaching on private property, options such as the Sunshine Mesa/Bilk Basin, Woods Lake, and Kilpacker trails are available.
Consider Additional Safety Measures
The final stretch leading to the summit presents its own set of challenges, with narrow, steep sections and heightened exposure. While ropes and harnesses aren’t deemed essential for scaling Wilson Peak, they can offer an added layer of safety and reassurance, particularly in these precarious sections.
I strongly recommend donning a helmet for the final ascent, regardless of whether climbing gear is carried. Loose rocks abound, posing a potential hazard, and a helmet can provide crucial protection against falling debris—an insight I gained firsthand during my own ascent.