Arapahoe National Forest - 2013
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My third attempt at Grays Peak and Torreys Peak would occur in April 2013 following an attempt of Decalibron (Mt. Democrat, Mt. Cameron, Mt. Lincoln, and Mt. Bross). We had an extra day in our schedule and felt we could make an aggressive attempt of Grays Peak. Without much sleep, we arrived at the Bakerville parking area off I-70 around 4am. Since it was full Winter, the Stevens Gulch Road was closed. We had to hike that entire distance with snowshoes. By early morning, we were at the Grays Peak Trailhead. Navigating by memory in the snow without a blazed trail we did a very good job maneuvering to the peak. It was snowing and there was a lot of whiteout as there was daylight. In the interest of traveling light, we didn’t take snow protection, e.g. pickets, slings, etc. We took crampons, but didn’t take an ice axe. By 1pm, we reached the last sections before the summit of Grays Peak. Whether we took the wrong route or the snow became too much, I don’t know. However, at this time we were unable to proceed further. We also had a plan flight home later that day. So, we elected to turn around. There was quite a bit of snow on I-70 that considerably slowed traffic. Perhaps it was good we turned around so that we would catch our return flight.