Our Work CFI plans on undertaking major trail construction and restoration on El Diente Peak in 2014. A major reroute is planned to preserve the riparian zone of Kilpacker Creek.
Click here to view a Google Earth projection of our proposed project on El Diente!
Recommended Route Navajo Lake Basin to North Slopes- use of this route will help to reduce impacts to this Fourteener’s fragile alpine environment. Click on the following link for detailed route informationincluding pictures, maps, and elevation profiles.
Route Information and Additional Resources From Telluride, take CO-145 S to Lizard Head Pass. Continue for 5.1 miles and turn right onto FR 535. At 5 miles, pass the Kilpacker Road intersection. Continue 2 more miles to reach the Navajo Lake Trailhead Entrance. Turn right to find the parking area.
From the trailhead, it is 4.5 miles to Navajo Lake. Towards the end of Navajo Lake Basin at about 12,100 is the turnoff to El Diente’s north slopes. Hike towards the bottom of the couloir. Climb the couloir until about 13,650, exit the couloir and follow the trail to the summit.
The above information does not replace the need to consult additional maps and Colorado Fourteener Guidebooks for more detailed route descriptions. We suggest checking multiple resources before departing on any hike. Keep in mind that not all guidebooks list this recommended route and that each guidebook’s description or route name may vary slightly.
Peak Specific Environmental and Safety Concerns Visitors are encouraged to climb these peaks in the early summer season so as to travel mainly on snow to reduce impacts. Travel on snow and rock instead of the tundra wherever possible.
This route enters the Lizard Head Wilderness Area. Group size may not exceed 15. Dogs must be kept under control and at least 100 feet from streams and lakes.
Helmets, crampons or spikes, and ice axes are recommended, as the route crosses many steep, snow-covered gullies.
