Colorado 14'ers
America
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ABOUT THIS CLIMB
Altitude: 4,268m - 4,400m (14,004ft - 14,438ft)
Grading Level: T2 - D5 (click HERE to find out more about our grading)
Best months to go: June - September
Colorado is renowned for its impressive collection of mountain peaks that soar above 14,000 feet, earning them the nickname "14'ers" or “fourteeners.”
With over 50 of these towering giants, Colorado boasts the highest number of such peaks in the entire United States. These majestic mountains are a significant part of the Rocky Mountains, with many of them standing as the highest points in this iconic range.
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The allure of Colorado's 14'ers lies not only in their impressive height but also in the breathtaking views and challenging hikes they offer to outdoor enthusiasts. Each peak presents a unique set of obstacles and rewards, attracting hikers and climbers from around the world.
The presence of such a high concentration of 14'ers in Colorado contributes to the state's reputation as a premier destination for outdoor adventure seekers. The challenging terrain, unpredictable weather conditions, and sheer beauty of these peaks make them a magnet for hikers, climbers, and nature lovers looking to test their skills and immerse themselves in the rugged wilderness of the Rockies.
Colorado's 14ers also play a vital role in the state's ecosystem and water supply. These towering mountains capture and store snowpack, which gradually melts and feeds into rivers and reservoirs, providing water for agriculture, cities, and wildlife. The conservation of these peaks is essential for maintaining the delicate balance of Colorado's natural environment.
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Overall, Colorado's abundance of 14'ers is a testament to the state's rich natural heritage and serves as a reminder of the awe-inspiring beauty and raw power of the Rocky Mountains. Whether you're a seasoned mountaineer or a casual hiker, exploring these majestic peaks is an experience that will leave a lasting impression and create memories to cherish for a lifetime.
Tailor-made Itineraries for you and your group
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Our guide will meet you at Denver airport and transport you to our luxury private Mountain Villa. You will start your trip with a delicious welcome BBQ cooked by our private chef, rest and relax after your journey ready to start climbing the following day.
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Each day, after an early and hearty breakfast, we will drive to the trailhead of your days 14'er climb. With a delicious packed lunch along the way we aim to be down from the summit early afternoon, when we will drive back to the villa for drinks, snacks and rest before another well earnt dinner.
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The evening of your final climb will be a celebration dinner and a toast to your achievements. The following day we will head back to the airport and say our goodbyes.
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Each 14’er peak will be chosen to meet the ability of the group with the difficulty building on each climb if possible.
How Colorado 14'ers are Ranked
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All 58 Colorado 14'ers are ranked by difficulty, from Class 1 (easiest) to Class 5 (difficult).
While there are no easy 14'er hikes, this system is helpful for choosing a route that works best for your skill and comfort level.
Factors that make a route more difficult include:
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The amount of exposure to the elements
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Severe drops or open ledges
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The amount of route-finding or lack of trail
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If any climbing is required
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Overall distance
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Class 1 Routes
The trail is typically very well established and maintained.
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Class 2 Routes
The biggest category for most fourteeners, and can involve scree, talus, snow climbs, exposure, and is more challenging across the board.
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Class 3 Routes
Require 3 points of contact on most parts of the route, with scrambling and un-roped climbing over extreme landscapes.
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Class 4 Routes
Requires climbing and demands four points of contact and slow, careful movement. Rope may be helpful on some of these routes.
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Class 5 Routes
Technical climbing with gear. No standard Colorado 14'er routes are Class 5.
Best Time of Year for Summiting 14'ers
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Depending on the time of year you decide to climb a 14'er and the prevailing weather conditions, your experience will vary greatly. In the late spring and early summer, many outdoor enthusiasts head to numerous Class 2 14'ers only to encounter deep snow at the summit. While it is feasible, proper equipment is necessary. Once you reach the mountaintops, you will be rewarded with stunning views of the snow-capped Rockies, where white patches contrast with the sunlit, rocky terrain as summer begins to illuminate the landscape.
During the peak of summer to early autumn, the Colorado 14'ers experience their busiest period. The meadows are filled with vibrant wildflowers, the trails are dry and clear, and the temperatures are mild enough to hike without a jacket. This time of year attracts a lot of hikers, leading to crowded trails and full parking lots at the trailheads, which can fill up quickly depending on the mountain. In summer, there is a risk of intense thunderstorms in the afternoons, which can be perilous if caught in one. To stay safe, it's important to start hiking early and aim to descend from the mountain by noon.
Gear to rent (if needed):
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Ice axe
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Crampons
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Harness
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Tape slings (2)
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Screwgate carabiners
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Descender/Abseil device
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Plastic Mountaineering Boots
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Ascender
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Helmet (optional)
Please contact us below!