Route: James Peak Ascent (CO)

James Peak via East Portal is an iconic climb in the Indian Peaks Wilderness! Starting at the trailhead, the first few miles toward Rogers Pass Lake remind you of Beast Coast trails, with roots and rocks. A steep climb to Rogers Pass leads into the most stunning alpine single-track you've ever seen, before a gut-punch climb to the summit.

The only tricky part is at the pass, where the trail vanishes for a few hundred feet. Keep going straight and you'll hit James Peak Trail.

Plenty of water sources along the way too!