Widely regarded as one of the easiest and most scenic fourteener approaches in the San Juans, climbing through a wildflower-filled basin to a broad, non-technical summit.
Access is via American Basin, reached by a rough road off Cinnamon Pass Road southwest of Lake City; a high-clearance vehicle is recommended, though the walk-in from lower parking is itself short and scenic. From the American Basin trailhead, the trail climbs gradually through one of the most photographed wildflower basins in Colorado. The route ascends Handies' southwest slopes on a well-defined trail with no significant obstacles to the broad summit at 14,048 feet.
Reverse the route back through American Basin.