Ajax Peak

View from the peak

Stunning, birds-eye-views of the high peaks of the Telluride area are the reward for hikers making the steep climb to the summit of Ajax Peak.
See Trail Detail/Full Description

• Distance: 5.6 miles (round trip) to Ajax Peak
  
• Elevation: 10,310-ft. at Trailhead
  12,785-ft. at Ajax Peak
  
• Elevation Gain: 2,475-ft. to Ajax Peak
  
• Difficulty: strenuous
• More Hikes in:
  Telluride / Southwest Colorado

Why Hike Ajax Peak

Iconic Ajax Peak towers above the eastern end of Telluride’s box canyon. When looking up at the peak from downtown Telluride it is hard to believe that a hikers trail reaches the summit. Fortunately, the Bridal Veil Road snakes its way up the canyon's head wall, climbing 1,300-ft. as it ascends to the power plant atop the wall. From here a stiff climb up a section of the Black Bear Road leads to a trail ascending steep switchbacks to the summit of Ajax Peak, gaining almost 2,500-ft. in 2.8 miles.

Hikers are rewarded for their efforts with stunning 360-degree views from atop the peak. The summits and ridges ringing the Marshall Basin, the Savage Creek Valley, Ingram Basin and Bridal Veil Basin are on display. In the distance are the high peaks of the Mount Sneffels and Lizard Head Wildernesses. Telluride lies cradled in the valley to the west while the ruins of the Tom Boy Mine are visible at the base of the peak’s north slopes.

This trail is not recommended for anyone with a fear of heights and discomfort when climbing steep trails to dizzying heights. A 4WD is recommended for reach the trailhead at the top of the Bridal Veil road. Check at the Telluride Visitor Center for current road conditions.

Elevation Profile

Trail Resources

Trail Detail/Full Description / Trail Photo Gallery / Trail Map

Basecamp(s) Information:

Region Information:
Southwest Colorado

Other Hiking Regions in:
Colorado