Wildhorse Peak has been on my desired peak list for a long time! Somehow I came across a high-res photo of it and thought it was amazing, with it's green slopes, large snowdrifts and pointed top.

I wanted to wait until the peak was in the same "condition" that it was in the photo. Meaning green! So we waited for the snow in the area to melt, then for a rain storm. Once that had occurred, we were ready.

We drove to Engineer Pass from Lake City to begin the hike. From the pass, we had to drop down to the Horsethief Trail. This trail is pretty hard to follow, especially given the remnant snow in the area.

Despite being open, flat terrain; the going wasn't easy as we were crossing numerous snow fields, creeks and swampy areas. Within 30 minutes, our feet were pretty soaked.

We soldiered on, aiming for the base of the peak at around 12,300 feet. It wasn't too hard to march on, as the peak looked so fun to climb... plus the views and flowers kept us entertained.

Just above the saddle and finally on the peak's slopes, we took a quick break. It appeared the route would take us up some very steep slopes between 12,600 and 12,800 feet. Then might mellow out before a rocky finish at the top.

Sure enough, the initial slopes on the southeast ridge were steep! That said, the footing is great and nothing loose to contend with. Soon we were on gentler slopes with huge drop-offs and rock fins to climber's right. With each step, the views opened up as well.

We finally reached the final 100 feet, which became more rocky, but still great footing. The last 20 feet to the summit is on a narrow, rocky ridge with minimal exposure... it is amazing (see the video)!

The top had a large cairn, register and skeleton. The views were incredible. The Cimarrons to the north. Uncompahgre and Wetterhorn right there. The Sneffels range off to the west. Then a sea of San Juan peaks to the south. One of the best peaks I have been on!!!

On the hike down, we gained some elevation out of the aforementioned 12,300' saddle. Staying higher and more toward Darley Mountain. This proved much better to keep us out of the wet areas. We even had a trail most of the way.

After getting back down the mountain and into Lake City, we had to celebrate with a beverage at the Lake City Brewery, which has a great Scotch Ale if that is your thing!

Make your way to Engineer Pass at 12,800 feet. This is a rugged, 4x4 road that you can get to from Silverton or Lake City. I feel the Lake City side is a lot easier, but you will still need a high clearance vehicle with all-terrain tires.

The drive from either side is incredibly scenic, so be prepared to take a lot of stops for photos and views!

From Engineer Pass, drop down to American Flats following an old road. Eventually this will meet up with the Horsethief Trail and take you due north and towards Wildhorse Peak. Then follow the south slopes up to the top of the peak.