West Buffalo Peak

West Buffalo from 616-617 Junction.

Difficulty Class 2

Risk FactorsExposure: Moderate
Rockfall: Low
Route-Finding: Moderate
Commitment: Moderate

TrailheadRich Creek Trailhead

Start11,193 feet

Summit13,330 feet

Total Gain2,133 feet

RT Length9 miles

WeatherNOAA Forecast

Authormc14tonage

Last UpdatedJul 2022

Downloads

GPX File

Trailhead

There are two ways into the Trailhead. One from the E coming from Fairplay. From the intersection of 285 and 9 West, drive S 4.7 miles to County Road 5. Travel SE 7 miles and turn right on County Road 22. Follow County Road 22 for 2.9 miles to the Trailhead parking which is on the S side of the Road.

and

From Granite. Drive N 10.2 miles and turn E on County Road 22. Follow County Road 22 for 20.1 miles and the Rich Creek Trailhead parking lot is on the S side of the Road.

Route Description

1
Beginning at the campsite above the junction of Rich Creek Trail 616 and Tumble Creek Trail 617. Follow Tumble Creek Trail 617 S-SW approx 0.5 miles to the west side of the valley.

2
Looking back to the N-NE over the marshy Buffalo Meadows Valley.

3
After following Tumble Creek Trail for 1.42 miles. We left the trail and headed SE across the meadow marsh and then turned near due E up the steep forested west side of the Mountain. This picture is looking west at the looming Collegiate Peaks.

4
After making it to the outcropping. We headed SE up and around the false summit eventually turning E. Once at the small saddle between the false summit and West Buffalo Peak we turned E up to the peak. This image is looking back down the from the ascent.

Notes

IMPORTANT: This route enters the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness area. Designated wilderness areas have special regulations and restrictions for party size, dispersed camping, campfires, etc. Also, dog owners should read the wilderness information carefully because some wilderness areas prohibit dogs to be off-leash and/or limit how close dogs can be to lakes and streams. If you have questions about the wilderness area, please contact a U.S. Forest Service office for the National Forest(s) listed above.

Map

Photos

Weather

Caution: The information contained in this route may not be accurate and should not be the only resource used in preparation for your climb. Failure to have the necessary experience, physical conditioning, supplies or equipment can result in injury or death. 14ers.com and the author(s) of this route provide no warranties, either express or implied, that the information provided is accurate or reliable. By using the information provided, you agree to indemnify and hold harmless 14ers.com and the route author(s) with respect to any claims and demands against them, including any attorney fees and expenses. Please read the 14ers.com Safety and Disclaimer pages for more information.

Please respect private property: 14ers.com supports the rights of private landowners to determine how and by whom their land will be used. In Colorado, it is your responsibility to determine if land is private and to obtain the appropriate permission before entering the property.

Heading to a 14er soon? Don't forget the 14ers.com mobile app.

West Buffalo Peak

14ers.com

Social

Mobile App