Vestal Peak via Wham Ridge Itinerary

Itinerary Note: This trip may originate out of Durango or Ouray. From Durango we use the DSNGRR to access the trailhead. From Ouray we access via Molas Pass.

Day 0

Arrive in Durango or Ouray the day before the trip begins and check in to your hotel.  Ideally you would want to arrive in the late morning or early afternoon to help aid in your adjustment to the altitude. Stay in a hotel.

Day 1

In the morning we’ll board the D&SNGRR train in Durango for the ride to Elk Park and the start of the hike/approach into Vestal Basin. After approximately 6 miles and 2800′ of elevation gain over 5 hourse we reach our camp at treeline in upper Vestal Basin. Or coming from Ouray we will hike to Elk Park from Molas Pass, about 3 miles and 1,500 ft. down to the Animas River. Then hike up to Vestal Basin. Camp out.

Day 2

Rising early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms, we’ll approach Vestal Peak and the Wham Ridge (III, 5.4). One of the most aesthetic climbs in the range finishes at a spectacular summit and great views of the entire San Juan range and the nearby Needle Mountains.  Descent is accomplished via passage through the Vestal/Arrow col.  We’ll be back at camp around 1 pm, where some relaxation and even a nap can ensue! Camp out.

Day 3

We have a few options on this day.  First, a leisurely morning allows us to pack our camp and head back to the train pick up at a reasonable pace. The train will pick us up at 2:00 and we’ll arrive back to Durango around 4:30 with plenty of time to catch a shower and enjoy a celebratory dinner! This is also an alternate summit day in case of poor weather. Second, ambitious participants may also choose to climb/summit Arrow Peak (13,803′) on this day.  Third, the group can also pack up camp early and catch the early train into Silverton where you can enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, then take the bus back to Durango.  If returning to Ouray the team will hike back to Molas Pass. Stay in a hotel or depart. 

Itinerary Note

The majority of the time spent on the Vestal Peak – Wham Ridge trip takes place at or above 10,000′ in elevation. If you live at sea level, it may be best to arrive in Durango or Ouray a day earlier to allow for an easier adjustment to the altitude and thus a greater chance for success on the climbs.

Training & Follow Up Climbs

As always, being in excellent physical shape is an important component of our our programs. A good mixture of cardiovascular fitness, muscular fitness, and especially core strength will help you to maximize the potential rewards that are possible on a great climbing trip.

Before Your Trip

TheVestal Peak/Wham Ridge 13’er climb is a strenuous trip conducted at altitudes above 10,000 feet.  Therefore, previous experience hiking in the mountains and/or multi-day backpacking experience will be very helpful to you on this program.  Though the actual climbing level required for this trip is not difficult, the best training regimen would include a mixture of cardiovascular fitness training (running, biking, hiking etc.), and muscular/core fitness exercises.  The addition of some Yoga/stretching exercises will help to insure that you maintain good muscular flexibility as well.

For the Vestal Peak climb you should be ready for:

• Hiking approximately 6-7 miles per day with up to a 40 lb pack at altitudes between 8,000′ – 11,000
• Climbing up to 5.4 in alpine boots
• 6 – 8 hour summit days with a lighter “day pack”
• Wilderness travel and camping

Follow Up Climbs

• Intermediate Alpine Climbing Course
• Jagged Mountain
• Private Alpine Guiding
• Long’s Peak, Rocky Mountain National Park

Durango, Colorado: Getting Here

Durango is located in the SW corner of Colorado, at the intersection of the sandstone towers of the desert, and the jagged, San Juan Mountains. A mecca for climbing, hiking, cycling, and foodies; make sure you plan to spend some time in town before and after your SJMG trip.  The SJMG Durango office is located at 1111 Camino Del Rio, Durango, CO 81301.

The best option for flying to the area is to fly into Durango – La Plata County Airport. Multiple airline options exist, and most connections originate from Denver, Phoenix, or Dallas. The airport is a 20 minute drive from our office. Many hotels offer a free shuttle pickup. Buckhorn Limousine offers a shuttle as well.

 Below are some approximate driving times if you’d like to drive to Durango.

• Ouray, CO: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Albuquerque, NM: 3.5 hours
• Denver, CO: 6 hours

Durango has a number of great hotels, suites, and vacation rentals for you to stay in while you’re in the area. Give our office a call at 800-642-5389 if you have any questions about what would suite you best for this trip!  Below are just a few options catering to different lodging styles and preferences.

• The Strater
• Durango Lodge
• The DoubleTree Hotel

Program Policies

Registration & Cancellation

Advance Registration is required for this program.  You have the option to either call our office and register via phone or utilize our secure Online Reservation System.  All participants must read and sign an Assumption of Risks/Liability Waiver and agree to our Reservations and Cancellations Policies.

Inclusions

• Guiding and trip leadership
• Breakfasts and dinners on the mountain
• Group camping and cooking equipment (tents, stoves, etc.)
• Group climbing equipment (ropes, etc.)
• Harness, helmet

Exclusions

• Transportation to Ouray or Durango, CO
• D&SNGRR Train Tickets
• Hotel costs before, during, or after the program
• Guide gratuity
• Lunch food or snacks
• Personal hiking/climbing clothing
• Trip Cancellation Insurance (recommended)
• Costs associated with weather delays or other variables beyond the control of San Juan Mountain Guides