Humboldt Peak, with an elevation of 14,064 feet, is the 37th highest peak in the state of Colorado. It was named by miners in 1874 after
Alexander von Humboldt, a Prussian naturalist and explorer. Humboldt is considered a relatively easy peak to climb, and the easiest of the
Crestones (a group of Fourteeners which also includes Crestone Needle, Crestone Peak, Kit Carson Peak, and, depending on who you talk to,
Challenger Point).
To reach the trailhead, head south from Westcliffe on Highway 69 for 4.3 miles, then turn right onto Colfax
Lane (Colorado 119). Follow the Lane to a T in the road and take a right onto Colony Road, a rough 4WD road which you'll follow as far you
can to the trailhead (there are several pullouts, and a parking lot after 1.5 miles). The road will be replaced with a hiking trail to the
right, which will take you up to lower South Colony Lake. From there, follow a Colorado Fourteener Initiative Trail to Humboldt's west
ridge. Be advised that there is some minor rock scrambling involved near the summit.
Sources: peakware.com, summitpost.org, wikipedia.org
