From Novice To Pro: The Challenge Of Hiking Colorado’s 14er Mountains

If 2024 is the year you want to take on some of Colorado's 14er Mountains, which ones are good for beginners, and which mountains should be left to the experts?

The easiest way to reach the top of a Colorado 14er mountain is to drive to the top of Pikes Peak or Mount Blue Sky (formerly Mount Evans). Enjoy the ride to the top and see how you handle the elevation before trying to summit one of these mountains on foot.

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Colorado Summit Season

While some hikers/climbers choose to take on some of Colorado's 14ers year-round, most casual hikers find the best months to summit are June to September. While many of Colorado's 14ers have snowfields near the top, most of the routes to the summit are clear during these late summer months. Begin your trek at dawn, and stay weather-aware no matter which mountain you climb.

Study Routes and Play It Safe

Two of the best things you can do in preparation for hiking to the top of a Colorado 14er are to study your route carefully and hike with friends instead of trying to go alone.

Keep going to check out ten of the hardest mountains to climb in Colorado, followed by a family-friendly list of 14er mountains that almost anyone can enjoy.

Colorado's Most Difficult Peaks

Some of the most difficult mountains in Colorado will include Class 3, Class 4, or Class 4 climbing. These routes will feature steep slopes that will require you to use your hands as you climb and may require ropes and other special equipment.

While these mountains are more challenging, they come with ultimate bragging rights and show off some of the best views in the state. See which mountains require the most skill for summit season in Colorado.