American Basin Handies Peak is a premier hiking destination in Lake City, Colorado, covering 5.5 miles with 2700ft of elevation gain. Stats: 5.5 miles, 2700ft gain, Hard. Type: Out-and-Back. Surface: Rock/Tundra. Time: 4-6 hours. Fee: Free. Dogs: Yes. Permit: No. Wildlife: mountain goats, bighorn sheep, marmots, pikas, golden eagles, Clark's nutcrackers. Best seasons: July through mid-September; wildflowers in American Basin are among Colorado's finest in late July. Handies Peak at 14,048 feet rises above American Basin — one of the most wildflower-carpeted alpine bowls in the San Juan Mountains. The approach through the basin is spectacular even if you don't summit. Pack plenty of water — desert and high-altitude trails demand more hydration than you expect. Layers are essential above 10,000 feet. Leave No Trace: stay on designated trails, pack out all waste, and respect wildlife and other visitors.