Welcome to the roof of Colorado, Mount Elbert. This 4,399-meter beauty is the highest point in the state and the second-highest peak in the 48 continental states of the United States. And most importantly, you can actually get there on foot.
Elbert does not require any mountaineering feats. There is no need to scramble over rocks or use safety equipment. It is a Class 1 hiking trail. In essence, it is simply a very long and steep walk. But what a walk!
Which side to approach from?
Mount Elbert is accessible from all sides, but it is especially convenient to start from Twin Lakes. This is essentially the base camp. From here, it’s a stone’s throw to all three main trails:
- South Elbert Trail: the most popular
- North Elbert Trail (via Halfmoon Creek): the most scenic
- Black Cloud Trail: the wildest and most athletic
Next, we’ll talk about the first two separately. We won’t consider the Black Trail, as it is better suited to experienced hikers.
South Mt. Elbert Trail
This route starts at the Lakeview campground. There is parking, restrooms, and access to the Colorado Trail. For off-road vehicles, there is an option to drive higher, to an elevation of 10,440 feet, from which the trail to the summit is 13 km round-trip.
The trail first crosses a bridge, then winds through a birch forest with nice switchbacks and emerges into open terrain. There, the real climb begins along the ridge, past false summits, to the real summit. The view from the top is breathtaking in both the literal and figurative sense.
North Mt. Elbert Trail
The start begins at the trailhead at Halfmoon Creek. This is a classic, slightly gentler trail with gorgeous views of the eastern slopes. The first few miles go through the forest, then along the ridge, through rocky areas and real “false finishes” until you reach the very top. On the plus side, it’s a good trail with a reasonable elevation gain, but the 1,450 meters of vertical climb take their toll. Especially at altitude. So here’s what you shouldn’t go without:
- Good trekking boots.
- Walking sticks.
- Plenty of water (at least 2 liters, preferably 3).
- Snacks (nuts, bars, dried fruit).
- Wind protection and warmth, because even in summer, +5°C is normal at the top.
- Sun protection (sunglasses, sunscreen, cap).
- Flashlight.
- Map (or offline track).
- First aid kit.
The earlier you start, the better. No, really. Starting at 5–6 a.m. is common sense. After noon, thunderstorms often occur in the mountains. They do not forgive slowness. The summit must be conquered before 11:00 a.m., and by 1:00 p.m., it is better to descend below the tree line.
What awaits you at the top?
Silence. Wind. A panoramic view that you will remember for a long time. A view of the Rocky Mountains, lakes, forests, and the empty expanses of Colorado. There, at the top, everything seems closer to the stars. And you suddenly understand why you did it all.
Let’s sum up
Climbing Mount Elbert is a true spiritual meditation. And if you are looking for a route that will challenge your body and expand your soul, then this is the place for you. The main thing is to use your head, breathe deeply, and enjoy every step. The summit will wait. And it will definitely reward you for your efforts.
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