Rio Grande National Forest
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With so many large peaks in Colorado, I wanted to visit a different mountain range. The Sangre De Cristo range seemed an interesting change of pace. We wanted to attempt Ellingwood Point and Blanca Peak. On Thursday, we flew into Denver, and rented a vehicle. We then headed south on I-25, around Pueblo to gain access to the west side of the range. We then repacked out backpacks in a strong wind, and then started toward Lake Como. Lake Como would be are jumping off point for these peaks. Approximately 2 miles from the road between 8400-9000' we set up camp for the night. It was a wonderful evening, and the view of the undeveloped valley and star filled sky was spectacular. Friday, we completed the ascent up Chimney Canyon "road", which was very generous to call a 4x4 road. Only customized offroad vehicles could ascend this road. Late afternoon on Friday, we reached Lake Como, and setup camp. Depending upon weather, we planned Saturday and Sunday to ascend the peaks. At 4 a.m., we started toward Blanca Peak. There was some ice on the headwall between Ellingwood and Blanca, so we attached crampons during this early morning climb. We made good time, and with a small amount of Class IV scrambling, we were atop Blanca Peak.
We didn't give ourselves long to enjoy the summit. We had a choice at this point. Descend about 400' into the bowl of the headwall, and then ascend the 400' to rejoin the ridge to Ellingwood Point. I elected to maintain the ridge between the two peaks. This involved some calculated Class IV scrambling, and I was fortunate my partner was up to the challenge. However, we didn't stop to eat often, and the lack of energy was affecting us. Near the last push for Ellingwood Point, my partner was exhausted. I resumed the attempt, and summitted Ellingwood Point, shortly after. We then descended Ellingwood Point, passed Crater Lake, and then returned to Como Lake. On Sunday, still having our weather day, we entered the nearby Great Sand Dunes National Park. The towering sand dunes were amazing. We obtained a nice campsite facing the dunes, and enjoyed a pleasant last evening with the dunes and clear sky in our view. On Monday, we made the long return trip to Denver, and returned to Chicago.