Red Peak: Alternate East Ascent from Willowbrook Trailhead

Type: Backcountry or Sidecountry

This ascent is listed in "Climbing and Skiing Colorado's Mountains: 50 Select Ski Descents" (purchase here: amazon.com/Climbing-Skiing-…). This approach is an "alternate" approach from the south rather than the north.

This approach follows the South Willowbrook Trail, then breaks off to the west, through the trees (with a short descent), then follows the ridge-line (continuing to the west) through the trees until you ascend beyond the tree-line. You'll then be in the "Catchers Mitt", where you can choose an approach to the top of the bowl.

Note: This is a 4,000-foot ascent, so it will take a long time, and you should plan your trip accordingly. In the springtime, above tree line, the bowl will become dangerous (isothermic) and there is wet slide potential.