While many people take the standard route up to Torrey”s Peak, Kelso Ridge is a beginner friendly and  approachable Class 3 scramble that runs along the east side of Colorado’s 14,267-foot Torreys Peak. This route is an ideal introduction to third-class scrambling—perfect for hikers ready to add a bit of hands-on movement and exposure to their mountain adventures.

Your day starts on the well-traveled Grays and Torreys trail, hiking roughly a mile before branching off  toward the ridge. From here  you’ll step into a beautiful alpine environment to begin your scramble. During our Kelso Ridge ascent you will learn how to move confidently through third and even a few short sections of fourth-class terrain. Along the way, you’ll reach a short “knife edge” section, a highlight of the route with exposure to challenge your skills. The adventure wraps up at the summit of Torreys Peak, one of Colorado’s classic 14ers.

After taking in the summit views, enjoy a snack and drink,  you’ll have two descent options. You can either take the standard hiking trail (Class 2) back to the trailhead for a relaxed finish, or for those looking to build confidence, you can descend the same scramble route with your guide. Practicing your down climbing skills is excellent preparation for more advanced peaks like Longs Peak, Capitol Peak, or The Citadel. During both your ascent and descent of Kelso ridge, we will practice a technique called short roping to ensure your safety as you learn these new skills.

Scrambling at high elevation is a rewarding and unforgettable experience. With the guidance of our experienced instructors, you’ll gain the skills and confidence to explore more adventurous alpine routes.