Quick Info
Peaks nearby: 8 fourteeners within range. Range: Sawatch Range (Collegiate Peaks Wilderness). Easiest: Mount Antero. Most popular: Mount Princeton. Season: June-September for standard routes.
Buena Vista is the 14er capital of Colorado. More fourteeners are accessible from here than any other town in the state. The Sawatch Range rises dramatically west of town, with peaks named after Ivy League universities—Princeton, Harvard, Yale, Columbia, and Oxford.
The Collegiate Peaks offer varied difficulty, from straightforward walk-ups to challenging scrambles. All reward with stunning views across the Arkansas Valley and Colorado's high country.
Nearby 14ers
Mount Princeton (14,197 ft)
Distance: 7 miles round trip. Gain: 3,900 ft. Difficulty: Class 2.
The closest 14er to Buena Vista and one of the most popular. Standard route from Mount Princeton Road is straightforward but steep. Excellent views of the Arkansas Valley. Combines well with hot springs at Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort.
Mount Harvard (14,420 ft)
Distance: 14 miles round trip. Gain: 4,500 ft. Difficulty: Class 2.
Colorado's 3rd highest peak. Long approach but non-technical route. Often combined with Mount Columbia for a challenging two-peak day.
Mount Columbia (14,073 ft)
Distance: 11 miles round trip (from same trailhead as Harvard). Gain: 5,000 ft with Harvard. Difficulty: Class 2.
Usually climbed with Harvard. The traverse between peaks adds challenge but yields two summits in one day.
Mount Yale (14,196 ft)
Distance: 9 miles round trip. Gain: 4,300 ft. Difficulty: Class 2.
Popular peak with excellent views. Standard route from Denny Creek is well-traveled. Steep but straightforward.
Mount Antero (14,269 ft)
Distance: Varies (can be shortened with 4WD). Difficulty: Class 2.
Famous for aquamarine mining. The rough 4WD road to the upper trailhead shortens the hike significantly. Without 4WD, it's a long day from the lower parking.
Other Nearby Peaks
Mount Shavano & Tabeguache (14ers combo): South toward Salida. Often climbed together.
Mount Oxford (14,153 ft): Close to Harvard. Some combine all three.
Mount Elbert (14,439 ft): Colorado's highest, accessible from Leadville, about 45 minutes north.
Planning Your Climb
Season: Standard routes are typically snow-free late June through September. Early season requires ice axes and crampons.
Start early: Alpine starts (pre-dawn) are essential. Afternoon thunderstorms are dangerous above treeline. Plan to summit by noon.
Altitude: Buena Vista sits at 8,000 feet, but peaks exceed 14,000. Acclimate before attempting climbs. Altitude sickness is common for visitors from sea level.
Trail conditions: Check current conditions before climbing. Snow, mud, and weather vary significantly.
Tips
Start with Princeton. Closest to town, popular, well-marked. Good first 14er for the area.
Headlamp required. Alpine starts mean hiking in darkness. Bring a reliable headlamp with fresh batteries.
Weather is everything. Check forecasts. Turn around if storms approach. No summit is worth getting struck by lightning.
Recovery at hot springs. Mount Princeton Hot Springs is the perfect post-hike reward.
Consider a guide. First-timers can benefit from guided 14er trips. Local outfitters offer guided climbs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which 14er should I climb first?
Mount Princeton if staying in Buena Vista—closest and most straightforward. Mount Antero if you have 4WD for the approach.
Can beginners climb these peaks?
With preparation, yes. Most are non-technical (Class 2). But they're still 14,000 feet with significant elevation gain. Be fit and prepared.
How long do climbs take?
4-10 hours depending on peak, fitness, and route. Harvard/Columbia combos can take 12+ hours.
Do I need special equipment?
Summer: Good boots, layers, rain gear, plenty of water. Early/late season: Add crampons and ice axe for snow.
Is camping near the trailheads possible?
Yes, dispersed camping is available near most trailheads. Some have established campgrounds. Arrive early—sites fill on summer weekends.