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Lizard Head Wilderness Cross Peak Colorado

Lizard Head Wilderness – near Telluride

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This wilderness area is named for the Lizard Head Peak, which is a 13,113 feet towering column of rotten rock. Lizard Head Peak is often overlooked because it is surrounded by more prominent mountains.

The Lizard Head Wilderness now has over 41,000 acres of land, located within the Uncompahgre and San Juan national forests. It was designated as a wilderness area by the U.S. Congress in 1980. The United States Forest Service is the Lizard Head Wilderness’ governing body.

Activities

Lizard Head Peak Coloraod
Lizard Head Peak. Photo: Vicki Devine

Amongst these mountains are three fourteener peaks known as Mount Wilson, Wilson Peak, and El Diente. These peaks are known for being difficult climbs and are recommended only for the most experienced mountain climbers. In fact, the Lizard Head Peak was voted one of the most difficult and dangerous climbs in Colorado.

Because of this, hikers are advised to take caution when climbing the peaks of the wilderness.

Getting There

Lizard Head Peak Colorado
Close up Lizard Head Peak. Photo: due_mele

The closest town to the Lizard Head Wilderness is Telluride. It can be accessed from the north via several trails such as the Lizard Head Rock of Ages, Elk Creek, or Woods Lake trails. These trails can be reached by departing south from the town of Telluride onto State Highway 145 and onto Vanadium.

Lizard Head Peak Wilson Peak Colorado
Ridge between Lizard Head Peak and Wilson Peak. Photo: Vicki Devine
Lizard Head Wilderness Valley
Valley in Lizard Head Wilderness. Photo: Vicki Devine
Lizard Head Wilderness Valley Colorado
View across the valley during Lizard Head Peak hiking. Photo: Vicki Devine
Lizard Head Wilderness Hope Lake Trail
Trout Lake in distance from Hope Lake Trail. Photo: Rachel Kramer
Lizard Head Wilderness Dog Hike
Dog friendly hike. Photo: Matty Sides
Lizard Head Wilderness Cross Peak Ridge Hike
Cross Peak ridge hike and Lizard Head Peak in distance. Photo: Adam Baker
Lizard Head Wilderness Wilson Peak
Wilson Peak from Telluride Ski Resort. Photo: Ken Lund
Lizard Head Wilderness Wilson Peak Aerial
Aerial of Wilson Peak and surrounding Lizard Head Wilderness. Photo: Ken Lund
Lizard Head Wilderness Wilson Peak Summit Aerial View
Wilson Peak’s 14,017-foot summit. Photo: Ken Lund
Lizard Head Wilderness Cross Peak Colorado
Looking westward at Cross Peak. Photo: Adam Baker

Details

Nearby Towns:

  • Rico
  • Telluride

Phone: 970-874-6600

Season: Year round

Established: 1980

Management: USFS

Website: fs.usda.gov/…

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