Wetterhorn Peak: Colorado 14er | Hikers Guide on Class 3 Route

Wetterhorn Peak (not to be confused with its little brother Matterhorn Peak which is due west and connected by a gnarly ridge) is a 14er located down in Colorado's Southwest corner. This area of the state is called the San Juans and it is home to 13 official 14,000' plus tall mountains; all of which are gorgeous.
There are several ways to get there but most climbers opt to use the southern route that comes up out of Matterhorn Creek. From Lake City, CO head west on county road 20 which follows Henson Creek. At the fork, take the 4x4 road up towards the north. After a bit you will see a sign that reads "Matterhorn Creek" and points you up a road that looks like it suited better for a 4wheeler rather than your 4runner. It's about a half mile of gnarly/rutted road to the actual trailhead.
I opted to camp in the little meadow that is just at the bottom of this road. There is a creek (Matterhorn Creek) nearby and plenty of room for a bunch of tents. Compare that to the trailhead which has little to no space for camping. Sharing is caring when is comes to this meadow.
The trail is straight forward and well defined for the most part. Just make sure to take your time and double check your map when you are confused, things can look different in the dark. There is a large boulder field you will need to walk though before the saddle, the trail zig zags through here.
Above 13,000' the trail becomes ambiguous & undefined. Follow the cairns and you'll be fine. The last 200 feet are a climb up a rock wall with tons of great handholds and places to stand for a rest. Great example of a class 3. Careful on the way down, in my opinion it is tougher than going up.

[@73NF14Ret]

Loved doing Wetterhorn, my first real Class 3 climb. I did not do Uncompahgre, just too long of a day for me. Congrats!

[@Pietop]

Congrats! Your first class 3 is a huge accomplishment. I felt the same way about trying to do them both in the same day so I turned it into a two day trip. Honestly I think it's better to do them on different days; less peak bagging and more enjoyment.