Colorado Trail and Continental Divide Trail junction

The Highland Mary Lakes Loop Trail offers a classic high-alpine experience, transporting you from forested climbs to vast, open tundra dotted with shimmering lakes like Highland Mary Lake. You'll navigate rugged terrain, including rocky sections and potential muddy spots, but the effort is rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the San Juan Mountains, including the distinctive Grenadier Range. In late summer, the meadows burst with vibrant wildflowers, adding another layer of beauty to this challenging route.

Planning your visit means being prepared for a significant ascent and high-altitude conditions. A capable four-wheel-drive vehicle is often recommended for reaching the trailhead due to rough road conditions. Always check weather forecasts, as conditions can change quickly, and be aware that snow and ice can persist into early summer. This trail is best tackled by experienced hikers ready for a demanding day.

What makes this route truly special is its unique access to the Weminuche Wilderness's alpine tundra, typically reserved for multi-day backpacking trips. A significant portion of the loop also follows a segment of the iconic Continental Divide Trail (CDT), offering extended views and a chance to experience a piece of this legendary long-distance path. It's a fantastic option for those seeking a big mountain feel in a single day.

The Whitehead Peak Loop offers a demanding yet incredibly scenic high-alpine hiking experience in Colorado's San Juan Mountains. This difficult route, spanning 16.2 miles (26.1 km) with 3403 feet (1037 metres) of elevation gain, guides you from dense spruce-fir forests into vast alpine tundra, past exquisite alpine lakes, and along exposed ridges. You'll be treated to panoramic views of the rugged Grenadier Range and the surrounding peaks, with the chance to spot vibrant wildflowers in mid-summer.

Planning for this 8-hour and 11-minute adventure requires careful consideration, as much of the trail is above treeline within the Weminuche Wilderness. Hikers should be prepared for significant elevation changes and potential rapid weather shifts, including lightning, rain, or even snow. Navigation can be challenging in sections where the trail is faint, so strong map-reading and compass skills are essential for this strenuous outing.

This loop is a prime example of the challenging hiking trails in the region, connecting to the broader network via the Whitehead Trail (#674) which links the Continental Divide Trail and the Highland Mary Trail. Beyond the natural beauty, you'll also encounter historical mining remnants in areas like Cunningham Gulch, adding a unique layer of context to your high-altitude journey.