Conquering Colorado's 14ers: A Guide to Scaling the State's Tallest Peaks
From Mount Elbert to Handies Peak, everything you need to know before you tackle a 14er in Colorado
Hiking a 14er in Colorado is an adventure like no other. With 58 peaks over 14,000 feet in elevation, Colorado boasts more 14ers than any other state in the United States. While these peaks can be challenging, they offer stunning views and a sense of accomplishment for those who reach the summit.
If you're considering hiking a 14er in Colorado, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, it's important to be prepared for the altitude. Altitude sickness is a common problem for hikers at high elevations, so it's important to acclimate to the altitude by spending a few days at a higher elevation before attempting a 14er. It's also important to drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
Second, be prepared for the weather. The weather in Colorado can be unpredictable, so it's important to pack clothing that will keep you warm and dry. Even in the summer months, temperatures can drop below freezing at higher elevations, so bring warm layers.
Finally, be mindful of the environment. Colorado's 14ers can become crowded, and it's important to stay on designated trails and pack out all trash. Follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment.
Here is a list of all 58 of Colorado's 14ers, organized by range:
Sawatch Range:
- Mount Elbert
- Mount Massive
- Mount Harvard
- La Plata Peak
- Mount Antero
- Mount Shavano
- Tabeguache Peak
- Mount Princeton
- Mount Yale
- Mount Columbia
- Mount Belford
- Mount Oxford
- Missouri Mountain
- Huron Peak
Front Range:
- Grays Peak
- Torreys Peak
- Longs Peak
- Mount Evans
- Pikes Peak
- Mount Bierstadt
- Quandary Peak
- Mount Lincoln
- Mount Democrat
- Mount Cameron
- Mount Sherman
- Mount Massive (Southwest Slopes)
Tenmile Range:
- Quandary Peak
Mosquito Range:
- Mount Lincoln
- Mount Cameron
- Mount Democrat
- Mount Bross
- Mount Sherman
Sangre de Cristo Range:
- Blanca Peak
- Crestone Peak
- Crestone Needle
- Kit Carson Peak
- Challenger Point
- Humboldt Peak
- Culebra Peak
- Ellingwood Point
San Juan Range:
- Uncompahgre Peak
- Mount Wilson
- El Diente Peak
- Mount Sneffels
- Wilson Peak
- Wetterhorn Peak
- North Eolus
- Mount Eolus
- Sunlight Peak
- Handies Peak
- Redcloud Peak
- Sunshine Peak
- San Luis Peak
- Windom Peak
- Mount Lindsey
Sawtooth Range:
- Jagged Peak
- Mount Eolus
Gore Range:
- Mount Powell
- Peak C
- Eagles Nest
While hiking a 14er in Colorado can be a challenging experience, it's also an incredibly rewarding one. By preparing properly and respecting the environment, hikers can have a safe and memorable journey to the summit.
