Dallas Peak

Maggy launching off the big drop

Description 

Dallas Peak 13,809 feet

Dallas Peak is a Colorado Centennial Peak; in fact it is ranked as #100 by most lists. It has often been described as the hardest high mountain in Colorado, largely due to an imposing summit block that requires technical climbing. It has also been described as the longest approach hike to a 100 foot rock climb in the state. The large summit block has several routes to the top; all are 5th class and even the most experienced climbers will want a belay due to the looseness of the rock. Route finding difficulties, weather, technical pitches and altitude make Dallas a serious undertaking.

Getting There 

Dallas is northwest of Telluride near Mount Sneffels. Travelling into Telluride on Colorado 145, keep a sharp eye out for the Mill Creek Road to the left (north). This road is approximatley 1.2 miles outside of town. Drive up the Mill Creek Road (passable with passenger cars) to the gate of the Telluride water supply. Camping is allowed here but keep it low key and do not trespass into the water department property. The Deep Creek trail is north of the road and well signed.

Featured Route For Dallas Peak

East Face/Dallas Peak 5.3  CO : Alpine Rock : Dallas Peak

The standard East Face route up Dallas actually starts on the South Face and winds its way around the lower mountain to the right. A very explicit route description is available in Gerry Roach's "Colorado Thirteeners" book. Highly recommended is the variation Roach calls "Stan's Shortcut". Bushwack through the woods following Mill Creek and pass the beautiful waterfall on the right (east) side. Many parties take the shortcut on the way up and...[more]