Mount Shavano Trail

Mount Shavano is a 14,229 foot (4,337 meter) mountain peak located in the Sawatch Range of Colorado, United States. The most popular route to the summit of Mount Shavano is via the Mount Shavano Trail. The trailhead is located near the town of Salida, Colorado, and is accessible by car. The Mount Shavano Trail is a 8.7 miles round-trip hike with an elevation gain of 4,450 feet (1,280 meters). It's considered a challenging hike and should only be attempted by experienced hikers with proper equipment and preparation.
The trail begins at the Mount Shavano Trailhead, and starts with a steep climb through a dense forest. The trail then begins to level out as it follows a small stream, offering a respite from the initial steep climb. The trail then begins to gain elevation again as it switchbacks through rocky and steep terrain. As the trail continues to gain elevation, the trees begin to thin out and the views of the surrounding mountains become more expansive.
As you near the summit, the trail becomes steeper and more rocky, with some scrambling required near the top. The final push to the summit is a steep climb up a rocky ridge, but the views from the top are worth the effort. The summit of Mount Shavano offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including Mount Antero, Mount Princeton and the Sawatch Range.
It's recommended to start early in the morning to avoid afternoon thunderstorms and to give yourself enough time to reach the summit and return safely. It's also important to bring plenty of water, snacks, and warm clothing, as the weather can change quickly at high altitude. Be aware of the potential for thunderstorms and lightning, as well as the risk of exposure.
For information on how we grade trails, please click here.
This trail can be completed in approx 2 days. Caution is advised on trail times as this depends on multiple variables. For more info, click here.