Hiking Colorado Fourteeners
One of the many things to do while in Colorado is hike the proverbial 14er. It seems as though everyone and there mom has done it, so now it’s your turn. There’s a lot that goes into hiking a fourteener; what to pack, where to stay, what to expect. Luckily we’re going to go over all of that in your very own Colorado 14er guide.
Best Time of Year to Hike a 14er
Summer or spring is definitely the best time of year to embark on your 14er journey. You have to be careful in the spring because the snow might not have completely melted yet making for a rather muddy hike. It’s never too hot when you’re that high in elevation so in order to avoid the mud you may want to wait a little longer into summer to make your trip.
What to Pack for a Colorado 14er
The biggest thing to be aware of when hiking a fourteener is how fast the weather can change. When you’re that high in the mountains it can go from blue skies to an all-out thunder storm in less than thirty minutes, so being prepared with the proper layers is essential. On the flip side, you’re going to be hiking a lot of miles with whatever you are packing on your back so it’s important to pack light. Light versatile layers are the key for comfortable success in the Colorado High Country.
Fourteeners Close to Breckenridge:
With a difficulty level of Class 1 Quandary Peak is one of the easier fourteeners around Breckenridge making it perfect for beginners and people who want to bring the whole family. The trailhead is located less than 10 miles outside of town so you don’t have to wake up extra early to get there in the morning. The trail itself is a 6.75 miles long round-trip with a 3,450’ elevation gain (start at 10,850’ and go up to 14,265’).
Why see one peak when you can see 4! A little step up from Quandary Peak is the Class 2 Combination Route in Alma. Take the Colorado 9 to Alma and look for the signs for Kite Lake. The trail is 6 miles up a dirt road (2WD cars with decent clearance should be able to make it when the road is dry). The trail is 7.25 miles round-trip and has 3,700’ elevation gain, starting at 12,000’ and shooting up to 14,286’.
Where to Stay Before Hiking a Fourteener
If you prefer a little bit of luxury before and after your hike, reserve a room at
Beaver Run Resort which is close to all the hikes listed above as well as many more. Beaver Run has direct mountain access while remaining a short walk or shuttle ride away from downtown Breck. After your hike be sure to hit the
Spa at Beaver Run to give yourself the massage you deserve after such a hike!
