Colorado's 58 Fourteeners

Peaks Over 14,000 Feet

The Ultimate High Altitude Challenge

Why Colorado is the fourteener capital of America

Colorado has more fourteeners than any other state in the lower 48. These 58 peaks over 14,000 feet draw hikers from around the world, from first-time summit seekers to seasoned mountaineers chasing the coveted goal of climbing all 58.

The experience ranges from moderate hikes suitable for fit beginners to technical climbs requiring ropes and experience. Some peaks see hundreds of hikers on summer weekends; others offer true solitude. All deliver views that make the effort worthwhile.

Most fourteeners are best climbed between late June and early September, after snow melts from the standard routes. Start early - ideally summiting by noon - to avoid afternoon thunderstorms that build almost daily in Colorado's high country.

Fourteeners by Difficulty

From beginner-friendly to expert only

BEGINNER

Best First Fourteeners

Mount Bierstadt (14,060') - Most popular first fourteener. 7 miles round trip, class 2. Near Georgetown.

Quandary Peak (14,265') - Well-maintained trail. 6.75 miles, class 1. Near Breckenridge.

Grays Peak (14,270') - Highest on the Continental Divide. 8.5 miles, class 1. Pair with Torreys.

MODERATE

Intermediate Climbs

Mount Elbert (14,440') - Colorado's highest peak. Long but not technical. 9.5 miles, class 1.

Longs Peak (14,255') - Rocky Mountain National Park's crown jewel. The Keyhole Route is class 3.

Mount of the Holy Cross (14,005') - Famous snow cross on east face. Remote and challenging approach.

EXPERT

Technical Peaks

Capitol Peak (14,130') - Colorado's most dangerous fourteener. Knife Edge traverse. Class 4.

Pyramid Peak (14,018') - Loose rock, exposed climbing. Near Aspen. Class 4.

Little Bear Peak (14,037') - Technical route with serious exposure. Class 4 with some class 5 moves.

COMBO

Classic Pairs

Grays & Torreys - Most popular combo. Traverse between the two summits.

Lincoln, Cameron, Democrat, Bross - The Decalibron loop bags four peaks in one day.

Elbert & Massive - Colorado's two highest peaks. Separate trailheads near Leadville.

Popular Fourteener Regions

Where to find Colorado's highest peaks

FRONT

Front Range

Closest to Denver. Longs Peak, Mount Evans, Pikes Peak, Mount Bierstadt, Grays, and Torreys. Easy access makes these the most climbed.

SAWATCH

Sawatch Range

Near Leadville and Buena Vista. Home to Mount Elbert (highest) and Mount Massive (second). 15 fourteeners total, the most of any range.

ELKS

Elk Mountains

Near Aspen. The most rugged and technical peaks. Maroon Bells, Capitol, Pyramid, and Snowmass. Stunning but dangerous.

SANGRE

Sangre de Cristo

Southern Colorado near Alamosa. Remote peaks including Blanca, Ellingwood, Little Bear, and Crestone Needle. Less crowded, more challenging.

Fourteener FAQs

What you need to know before climbing

How long does it take to climb a fourteener?

Most standard routes take 5-10 hours round trip. Easier peaks like Quandary can be done in 4-5 hours. More challenging peaks like Longs Peak or Capitol take 10-14 hours. Always start before sunrise.

When is the best time to climb?

July through September offers the best conditions on most peaks. Snow lingers on north-facing routes into July. Start by 5-6 AM to summit by noon and avoid afternoon thunderstorms. Lightning above treeline is deadly serious.

What do I need to bring?

The ten essentials: navigation, sun protection, insulation, illumination, first aid, fire, repair tools, nutrition, hydration, emergency shelter. Add trekking poles, layers for changing weather, and more water than you think you need. Altitude makes everything harder.

How do I deal with altitude?

Acclimatize before climbing. Spend a day or two at elevation (8,000-10,000 feet) before attempting a fourteener. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and know the symptoms of altitude sickness: headache, nausea, dizziness. Descend if symptoms worsen.

Do I need permits?

Some peaks require permits. Longs Peak in Rocky Mountain National Park requires reservations during peak season. Mount Evans has a road fee. Several peaks on National Forest land are implementing reservation systems to manage crowds. Check before you go.

Plan Your Climb

Start with a beginner-friendly peak near Denver