Mt. Yale vs La Plata Peak

[BigNick21]

If you're okay with some road walking I'd recommend La Plata from Winfield. I have done Yale 2x via standard and La Plata once standard and once Winfield. I thought the Winfield option was prettier, more secluded, great camping up at treeline.

How far is La Plata from the south if you park at a 2wd trailhead?

[dwoodward13]

If you're okay with some road walking I'd recommend La Plata from Winfield. I have done Yale 2x via standard and La Plata once standard and once Winfield. I thought the Winfield option was prettier, more secluded, great camping up at treeline.

How far is La Plata from the south if you park at a 2wd trailhead?

Approx 11.2 mi, 4,100' gain. Do note that the 'trail' on this route is much different than Yale, La Plata standard or Huron. There is very little defined trail once reaching the rockfield near 13k. This could be rather intimidating for someone new to off trail travel. Don't expect a super highway trail, infact I don't think any of the trail on this route gets any regular maintenance. Its also very easy to lose the trail in the willows just below treeline (and also get very muddy).

I do agree it is very scenic however, just maybe not the best for a lot of newer hikers.

[JerJerBinks]

For starters, the simple answer to your actual question, for me, it's La Plata hands down. In my opinion it's a more impressive peak with a better view from the summit. If you look at the peak description on this website, it's called a rugged Colorado 14r. It's so "money" it's not even funny. Sure Yale has a 3 minute scramble at the summit, but to me, that doesn't compare to the adventure you get with La Plata. On top of the creek that was already mentioned, the view of Sayres, Ellingwood ridge, and so much more were sources of inspiration for me personally. IMO, it's a more special kinda thing.

Now what I think you should actually do is loop Yale. What you have there is a chance for a bigger adventure. I'd recommend ascending Yale from the East ridge/Avalanche TH (non standard) and descending the standard route. From the standard TH you could very likely grab an easy hitch, a very short distance down the highway, back to your starting point. Worst case scenario it's a couple miles or less on pavement. Personally I'd ask one of your new friends from the summit of Yale nicely for a ride back down to avalanche th. If they can't squeeze you in, there's a real good chance somebody will. The best place to ask for a ride is from the standard TH (meaning hang out there and ask before you start the road walk) The East Ridge is probably more like C2+ but it's definitely not harder than that. Your time spent on and making your way up the ridge is a great place to have a worthwhile experience. The other reason I recommend this route is because I think it would be a great precursor to Halo ridge, which I noticed was on your list of goals.

[Scott P]

and am planning on climbing some 14ers

Since you said 14ers plural, do both. Add Huron too.