Hoser's Highway Righthand

About

Hoser's Highway Righthand is a moderate ice climbing route located near Silverton, Colorado, on the Western Slope. The route is situated on Peak 13,419, specifically in the northernmost gullies of the peak, to the left of the Stairway to Heaven route. The climb consists of approximately 900 feet of ice distributed across four pitches, organized as two parallel gullies. The right-hand gully is noted as slightly more difficult than the left, with the crux located higher up near the summit. The left gully features a thin pillar crux midway up. The route typically requires four steep sections of ice with minimal slogging between them. Early in the season, climbers may encounter a small section of mixed terrain if the ice has not fully formed. Access involves two primary options: approaching via the Stairway to Heaven trailhead and heading left across a snow slope with a small grove of aspens, or walking up the road to cross the river on an avalanche debris pile. Parking is available near the base, and pets are allowed. The elevation is listed as 11,470 feet in some records, though the route sits on Peak 13,419. Protection includes screws of various sizes, with some rock pro potentially useful. Descending is done by walking off to the left, though good route finding is advised or rappelling on v-threads is an option. The route is accessible year-round, though winter conditions require additional precautions.