Colorado Hikes near Denver: Grays and Torreys Peaks
In September, I checked off my first and second 14er in Colorado….a milestone that led to seven more peaks in as many weeks. The contrasting landscape of this trail, in particular, captures the beauty of the green against the arid, lifeless brown that scales to the clouds. Undoubtedly, a repeat is in the future for my favorite hike of 2023!
Truly, an incredible escape from the personal training studio in Denver.
Time of Year: Sunday, September 3rd, 2023.
Weather: 41 degrees, partly sunny at 7:45 am and 41 degrees, and drizzling at 12:08 pm.
Cover: 99% exposed.
Time: 7:45 am - 12:08 pm.
Distance: 9.07 miles total.
Cost: No cost.
Bathroom at Trailhead: Yes.
Difficulty: Hard Level 3 for altitude (14279 feet), elevation gain (about 3665 feet), and length (9.07 miles). The scree on the way down from Torreys added some challenges, but not technical.
Route: Grays Peak Trail to Grays Peak and then Grays Torreys Saddle Trail to Torreys Peak. Saddle Trail back down to Torreys Peak Trail to Grays Peak Trail and back.
Traffic: Moderate/high.
Parking: At 7:45 am, one spot in the lot (and more near the dispersed camping) and by 12:00 pm, several spots open. Please note that officers are ticketing anyone parking on the county road. It not only blocks private residences but doesn't allow enough space for emergency vehicles. It's worth waiting 15 minutes in the lot for the next available spot instead. Also, I saw sedans drive 2.8 miles on the off-road conditions of this county road. It's manageable but a challenge. An Outback rides fine, though. This drive has several small lots, but it will tack on mileage and elevation gain before you even hit the trailhead.
Equipment: Hiking boots, hiking poles.
Terrain: A well-carved dirt and rock path that ascends into switchbacks toward Grays Peak. It is mostly a rock scramble from Grays Peak to the start of the Torreys ascent, where it jumps to dirt and scree (loose stones).
Experience: A nod to the fine folks who have carved a remarkable trail to these two peaks. Much of the technical aspects have been removed (although there are little rock scrambles on the back half of the hike). The views are outstanding from the first step, with peaks cradling you until you open up to Grays and Torreys. While the trail was busy, the energy to conquer both was infectious. Grays drew the most people. The saddle provided the more interesting rocky terrain from peak to peak (a 30-60 min venture). Torreys is smaller up top (but felt safe). Incredible views in every direction, and both peaks offer unique vantage points. Note: Storms typically swarm the peaks around noon, and they were early on this day (11:15). I was down before any danger, but I was shocked by the number of people still climbing in the rain. Be mindful of lightning (and soon snowy conditions) on your ascents.
Denver Personal Trainer Notes: Even the easier 14ers are a feat of cardio endurance, muscular endurance, and respiratory adaptation. The Grays and Torreys Peaks are no exception. Undoubtedly, this trail is a challenging but approachable workout. You can feel the buzz from the other hikers who eagerly pressed forward to claim their first and second 14ers. While you can conquer Grays alone as a victory, Torreys across the ridge is too close to avoid.
The mountains: A home away from home for my personal training clients in Denver……and now me too!
My LoHi personal training clients will love the challenge of this trail!
The last bits of green terrain before the rocky caps of the Grays and Torreys Peaks.
An incredible resting point before climbing up the peak!
Beautiful contrast on the hike to the Grays and Torreys Peaks.
One of the beautiful hikes you can perform outside of your Denver personal training session!
Outstanding views from the Colorado 14ers.
The first of two peaks on this hiking trail in Colorado.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: MICHAEL MOODY, PERSONAL TRAINER
As an author, a personal trainer in Denver, and podcast host, Michael Moody has helped personal training clients achieve new fitness heights and incredible weight loss transformations since 2005. He also produces the wellness podcast "The Elements of Being" and has been featured on NBC, WGN Radio, and PBS.
Michael offers personal training to Denver residents who want to meet at the 2460 W 26th Ave studio….or in their homes throughout LoHi (80206), LoDo (80202), RiNo (80216), Washington Park (80209), Cherry Creek (80206, 80209, 80243, 80246, 80231), and Highlands (80202, 80211, 80212). Michael also offers experiences with a personal trainer in Jefferson Park (80211) and Sloan's Lake (80204, 80212).
If you’re looking for a personal trainer who can curate a sustainable (and adaptable) routine based on your needs and wants, Michael is the experienced practitioner you’ve been looking for. Try personal training for a month…your body will thank you!
