Colorado has over 50 peaks rising at 14,000 feet or even higher and most are within close proximity to Denver. As a hiker and one that has also done a few 14er’s, I wanted to share with you some beginner fourteeners that I feel are a great intro to hiking some of Colorado’s incredible mountains. Depending on the climb, expect your hike to last anywhere from 7-10 hours. Start EARLY and pack extra food and water!
Quandary Peak - Elevation 14,265 feet (7 miles round trip)
• Its proximity to Denver and Breckenridge make Quandary a popular mountain during the summer and the trail is well-marked.
Mount Bierstadt - Elevation 14,060 feet (7 miles round trip)
• One of Colorado's easiest fourteeners - Bierstadt is a fairly easy climb, but there are areas that are fairly steep. I did this as my first solo 14er and it was AMAZING!
Grays Peak - Elevation 14,270 feet (8 miles round trip)
• A popular trail, and it's well-traveled and close to Interstate 70. If you're feeling ambitious, do the nearby Torreys for your first two fourteeners (or even two in one day combo).
Torreys Peak - Elevation 14,267 feet (8 miles round trip)
• Torreys is a short climb but again...start early because potential rain storms can creep up on you quickly in the afternoon.
For a list that features all of the Colorado 14ers -
Click Here.
Happy Climbing!
