At the top of Guanella Pass, park in the upper lot, on the west side of the road. Near the restrooms, start down the South Park trail, which is also marked for Square Top Lakes -
2. Shortly after starting, turn right (
3) and descend to upper Duck Creek -
4. Follow the obvious trail west for about 1 mile, to a point where it finally starts to gain some ground -
5. Above 12,000', gain a point where you can see much of the remaining route -
6. Descend a bit and continue to lower Square Top Lake -
7. Even if you choose not to summit Square Top, the hike to the lakes is worth the trip.
Just below the first (lower) lake, cross the stream and continue southwest up a hill. After ascending a hill, stay left when you reach a sign for the upper Square Top lake -
8. Continue south to another trail junction, at 12,250'. Leave the South Park trail and follow a trail west up Square Top's southeast ridge -
9. This route has become popular in recent years so you'll find a trail all the way up the ridge -
10. Near 12,500', reach flatter terrain as you approach the upper ridge -
11. Near 12,800', the ridge gets steeper and the trail is a bit rough, but only for approx. 250 feet -
12. Above 13,000', the terrain is easier and the trail becomes slightly less-defined -
13. Ascend gentle terrain to reach the east end of the summit ridge, above 13,700' -
14. With a hint of a trail, walk west near 1/2 mile to reach the true summit -
15,
16 and
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