The Best 14ers in Colorado
Colorado is famous for its wide array of gorgeous landscapes. In the mountains of Salida, you’ll want to escape your RV campground and explore some of the state’s majestic 14ers.
What is a 14er?
Colorado's 58 "14ers", mountains that stand over 14,000 feet in elevation, attract hikers and mountain climbers from around the globe. Renowned for stunning scenery, wildflowers, stunning views and challenging terrain - 14ers range from easy to extremely difficult; beginner trekkers should begin on one such as Mount Sherman, Evans or Longs Peak before progressing uphill towards more advanced fourteeners like Mount Elbert or Pikes Peak.
A 14er is best tackled between late spring and early summer when most mountains still boast snow cover but hiking trails remain dry and relatively clear. Thunderstorms, though less likely, can still pose risks when conquering its summit.
Beginners should not underestimate how difficult it will be to conquer a 14er. Expect to burn plenty of calories, require ample food and water supplies as well as pack extra layers. As with any endeavor, proper planning should always precede any trip such as this; inform someone at home of your plans as well as getting acquainted with altitude changes before setting out.
North Maroon Peak
North Maroon Peak and Maroon Peak form one of Colorado’s most picturesque mountain scenes, linking the 14,014-foot North Maroon Peak with the more prominent 14er Maroon Peak via an iconic ragged ridge.
Hikers can visit the Maroon Bells by following the Maroon Snowmass Trail to a saddle between Crater and Pyramid Peak, before going along a relatively easy trail and turning west, climbing North Maroon Peak's class 3 finish. This peak is featured on Outdoor Trail Maps Colorado 14ers map 10 of 16. This area requires advance preparation and safety precautions during popular summer months.
Mount Elbert
Mount Elbert stands as one of Colorado's tallest summits at 14,433 feet, offering stunning panoramic views from its Collegiate Peaks setting. Situated just west of Leadville in San Isabel National Forest, it's a popular hiking spot for both novice and experienced hikers.
La Plata Peak
La Plata Peak can be found within Colorado's majestic Sawatch Range, one of the state's most complex mountain systems with 15 fourteeners and 14 centennial thirteeners residing here.
As you ascend in elevation, hiking becomes more challenging as you near its summit. The trail becomes steeper and switchbacks appear frequently; once at the ridgeline, it will be essential to stay on track as there can be large amounts of loose rocks and other debris along it. This peak offers spectacular views from its summit.
Blanca Peak
Blanca is Colorado's fourth highest peak and part of the Sierra Blanca Massif and Sangre de Cristo Range, towering over San Luis Valley; an alpine region covering over 8,000 square miles that features Alamosa as well as Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve.
Climbing this peak presents a formidable challenge to even expert backcountry climbers.
Blanca Peak can be reached via an exciting technical class 3 climbing section that offers stunning views of both the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and sand dunes below. Furthermore, traversing from Blanca Peak to Ellingwood Point on an exposed high ridgeline requires more advanced rock climbing skills; making this an excellent weekend outing for experienced rock climbing travelers.
Pikes Peak
Pikes Peak, also known as America's Mountain, draws visitors year-round from Colorado Springs. Famed for its iconic road racetrack that attracts racers from around the globe to compete on, Pikes Peak makes up one of the more accessible 14ers in America.
This iconic landmark is also a beloved hiking spot, drawing hikers seeking an exhilarating adventure and breathtaking vistas. Climbers must have strength of will as the trek to its summit requires significant stamina but rewards them with panoramic vistas that will leave them speechless.
You are certain to experience breathtaking scenery as you take in 360-degree views of Garden of the Gods and Pike National Forest. The recently built Summit Visitor Center features interactive exhibits for all ages; guests should visit its restaurant as well as shop for souvenirs! Additionally, Rocky Mountain Field Institute supports sustainable outdoor recreation through conservation education initiatives through the Pikes Peak collection.