Mount Elbert
Colorado's highest peak is Mount Elbert at 14,431 feet, or 2.72 miles
above sea level. Mount Elbert is the highest mountain in
Colorado, highest in the Rockies, and second highest in the contiguous
United States. Most individuals in the non-climbing world and
outside of Colorado have never heard of Mount Elbert, but that is their
loss. Mount Elbert is a spectacular peak and very worthy of
recognition.
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Located in the Sawatch Range of the Colorado Rockies, Mount Elbert was
named for Samuel Elbert, the controversial territorial governor of
Colorado in 1873. In 1874, H. W. Stuckle of the Hayden Survey was
the first recorded summit of the peak. Since that time, Mount
Elbert has been climbed and appreciated by thousands.
The terrain of Mount Elbert from base to summit is relatively moderate,
allowing almost anyone with reasonable fitness to enjoy the mountain
and its status. There are five main routes to reach the summit of
Mount Elbert. The two most popular and easiest are the South
Mount Elbert Trail and the North Mount Elbert Trail. These
relatively easy paths to the summit are busy in the summer, attracting
all types of hikers and climbers of all ages. As with any high
peak, the mountain elements of weather, altitude along with personal
ability must be considered before attempting to summit. It takes
a bit of planning but well worth the effort once reaching the top of
Mount Elbert and enjoying this great outdoor experience.
Located just 40 miles east of Aspen, a half-day to full day trip to
Mount Elbert is very manageable. As with most of Colorado's high
peaks, June through September is considered the summer hiking and
climbing season. Mount Elbert also offers excellent winter access
to those with experience in the backcountry and mountaineering.
It is a popular ski mountaineering destination due to low avalanche
danger on several of the routes.
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