Mount Elbert: Colorado's Gentle Giant
Conquer Colorado's highest peak! Hike Mount Elbert for breathtaking views and a rewarding high-altitude adventure in the Rocky Mountains.
Mount Elbert, standing at 14,433 feet (4,401 meters), is the highest summit of the Rocky Mountains and a coveted destination for hikers and peak baggers. Located in the San Isabel National Forest, about 12 miles southwest of Leadville, Colorado, it's part of the Sawatch Range, characterized by its high peaks and dramatic ridgelines. The mountain was named in 1873 in honor of Samuel Hitt Elbert, the governor of the then-Territory of Colorado, recognizing his role in brokering a treaty with the Ute tribe that opened up vast lands for mining and railroad activities. The first recorded ascent was in 1874 by H.W. Stuckle during the Hayden Survey. Mount Elbert's geological history dates back approximately 28 million years when the Sawatch Range separated from the Mosquito Range due to the Laramide Orogeny. Glaciation heavily shaped the landscape, leaving behind features like moraines and cirques, including a notable cirque with a small tarn on the eastern side. The mountain primarily consists of quartzite, with a summit ridge of metamorphic basement rock dating back 1.7 billion years. Today, Mount Elbert is known as the 'Gentle Giant' because its most popular climbing routes are considered Class 1 or 2, making it accessible to fit hikers without specialized gear. The most common routes include the North Elbert Trail, South Elbert Trail (also known as East Ridge Trail), and the Black Cloud Trail. Despite its accessibility, the mountain demands respect. Weather conditions can change rapidly, and the high altitude poses a challenge, even for experienced hikers.
Local tips
- Start your hike early (before sunrise) to avoid afternoon thunderstorms, which are common in the summer.
- Acclimatize to the altitude before attempting the climb. Spend a few days at a higher elevation to reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks. There is very little water available along the trails.
- Wear appropriate clothing and gear. The weather can change quickly, so be prepared for all conditions, including wind, rain, and snow.
- Check the weather forecast before you go. Be aware of potential hazards, such as snow and ice, even in the summer.
A brief summary to Mount Elbert
- Colorado, US
Getting There
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Driving
Most visitors drive to Mount Elbert from Leadville, CO. From Leadville, head west/south on US-24. About 3 miles from Leadville, turn onto CO-300 West. After 0.8 miles, turn left onto Halfmoon Road. Continue for 5 miles on Halfmoon Road to reach the North Mount Elbert Trailhead, located across from the Elbert Creek Campground. Parking is free but fills up quickly, especially on weekends. Consider arriving early or carpooling. Note: Halfmoon Road is a dirt road that can be rough in places. Check road conditions before you go, especially during the spring and early summer.
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Walking
From the North Mount Elbert Trailhead, the route heads south down the well-marked Main Range/Colorado Trail. The North Mount Elbert trail forks right off the Main Range/Colorado Trail. Follow the trail all the way to the summit. The trail is well-maintained and easy to follow, but it is steep in places. Be sure to wear appropriate footwear and bring plenty of water.
