14er suggestions

[Speedyxy910]

Hi, me and my friends are taking a trip around Colorado in mid June, and would like to attempt a 14er. None of us have attempted one before, however we are all very fit from 4 years of cross country and track. I know that winter conditions on most extend through June, but would it be possible to complete any 14er in this part of the year with minimal to no snow gear? If so, which ones? Any suggestions are appreciated!

[Wentzl]

It's great that you and your friends are fit and looking to tackle a 14er! Mid-June can be a tricky time for Colorado 14ers. While the "summer hiking season" generally begins in mid-June and extends to early September, snow can still be present, especially on north-facing slopes and at higher elevations.

Here's what you need to know and some suggestions for your trip:

General Mid-June 14er Conditions:

Snow: Expect to encounter some snow, particularly in early to mid-June. The amount will depend on the winter's snowfall and spring temperatures. While you might not need snowshoes, microspikes (traction devices that fit over your hiking boots) can be very helpful for navigating icy or hard-packed snowfields. Gaiters are also a good idea to keep snow out of your boots.
Melt-off: As the snow melts, trails can become wet, muddy, and sometimes swampy, especially at lower elevations.
Stream Crossings: Runoff from melting snow can cause streams to be high, potentially making some crossings challenging.
Weather: Colorado mountain weather is notoriously unpredictable. Even in June, you can experience a wide range of conditions, from warm sunshine to cold temperatures, strong winds, and afternoon thunderstorms.
Start Early: This is crucial. Afternoon thunderstorms are common and can develop rapidly. You want to be off the summit and ideally below treeline (around 11,500 feet) by noon to avoid being caught in dangerous lightning.
Layer Up: Bring multiple layers of clothing, including a waterproof and windproof outer shell, even if the forecast looks clear. You'll likely be shedding and adding layers throughout the hike.
Altitude Sickness: Being fit from cross country and track is excellent for the physical demands, but it doesn't prevent altitude sickness. Drink plenty of water (much more than you think you need), and consider acclimatizing for a day or two at a higher elevation (e.g., a town like Breckenridge, Leadville, or Salida) before your hike. If anyone starts to feel nauseous, dizzy, or has a severe headache, the safest course of action is to descend immediately.
Trail Crowds: The "easier" and more accessible 14ers can get very crowded, especially on weekends. Starting early helps avoid some of the crowds.

14ers Recommended for Beginners with Minimal Snow Gear (but still be prepared for some snow):

These peaks are generally Class 1 or 2 (meaning well-defined trails, possibly some minor scrambling, but no technical climbing) and have relatively accessible trailheads.

Mount Bierstadt (Front Range):
Why it's good: Very popular and relatively short (around 7 miles roundtrip, 2,850 ft elevation gain). The trailhead at Guanella Pass is paved and at a high elevation (over 11,000 ft), meaning less elevation gain from the start.
Mid-June conditions: Highly trafficked, so snow on the main trail tends to be packed down. Microspikes are often recommended in June. The initial section through willows can be wet and muddy.
Crowds: Expect crowds due to its proximity to Denver.

Quandary Peak (Near Breckenridge):
Why it's good: Another very popular and often recommended first 14er. The standard East Ridge route is a long, gradual trail (around 6.6 miles roundtrip, 3,326 ft elevation gain).
Mid-June conditions: Similar to Bierstadt, snow can be present but often packed. Microspikes can be useful. Parking reservations are required for Quandary Peak from June 1-September 30. You may need to plan for a shuttle if you can't secure a parking spot.
Crowds: Also very crowded.

Mount Sherman (Mosquito Range):
Why it's good: Shorter route (around 5 miles roundtrip, 2,027 ft elevation gain) with historical mining ruins along the way, which can add interest.
Mid-June conditions: Can have snow, but often dries out relatively early. Starting early is key to avoid post-holing in softened snow.
Access: The Fourmile Creek/Leavick trailhead road can be rough, but often manageable for 2WD vehicles.

Grays Peak and Torreys Peak (Front Range):
Why they're good: You can bag two 14ers in one day! The standard route is about 8 miles roundtrip with 3,550 ft elevation gain. The saddle between the peaks makes traversing between them relatively easy.
Mid-June conditions: Expect snow in shaded areas and potentially on the saddle. Microspikes could be beneficial. The access road (Stevens Gulch Road) can be rough and might require high-clearance, though some 2WD vehicles attempt it.
Crowds: Very popular, especially for bagging two peaks.

Mount Elbert (Sawatch Range):
Why it's good: The highest peak in Colorado, but surprisingly one of the "easiest" via its standard Northeast Ridge route. It's a long hike (around 9-10 miles roundtrip, 4,700 ft elevation gain), but it's a solid Class 1 trail.
Mid-June conditions: The Northeast Ridge often clears earlier than some other routes. You might encounter some snowfields, but they are typically manageable with just hiking boots, though microspikes could be a good safety net.
Location: Located near Leadville, which is a good base for acclimatization.

Essential Gear to Consider (beyond what you'd typically bring for a day hike):

Footwear: Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support and grip.
Traction: Microspikes are highly recommended for mid-June, even on "easy" 14ers.
Layers: Base layer, insulating mid-layer (fleece or puffy jacket), waterproof/windproof outer shell.
Headlamp: Even if you plan to be off the mountain by noon, it's a safety essential in case of unexpected delays or an earlier start.
Sun Protection: Sunscreen (apply frequently!), sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat. The sun at altitude is intense.
Water: At least 2-3 liters per person. Consider electrolyte drinks.
Food: High-energy snacks and lunch.
Navigation: Map, compass, and/or a GPS app on your phone (download offline maps).
First-Aid Kit: Comprehensive for blisters, cuts, and any other minor injuries.
Trekking Poles: Excellent for stability, especially on uneven terrain, rocky sections, and snowy slopes.
Emergency Blanket/Bivy: For unexpected delays or emergencies.

Before you go:

Check Conditions: Crucially, check recent trip reports and conditions on websites like 14ers.com in the days leading up to your hike. This will give you the most accurate information on snow levels and trail conditions.
Weather Forecast: Get a mountain-specific forecast for the peak you plan to climb and monitor it closely.
Start Early: Plan to be at the trailhead before sunrise (e.g., 5-6 AM) to ensure you are off the summit by noon.
Turn Around Time: Have a strict turn-around time, regardless of whether you've reached the summit. This is usually based on weather, energy levels, or simply being off the mountain by a certain hour to avoid afternoon storms.
Know Your Limits: Even "easy" 14ers are physically demanding at altitude. It's okay to turn around if someone in your group isn't feeling well or conditions become too challenging. The mountain will still be there.

Given your cross country and track background, you have a good fitness base, which is a huge advantage. However, the altitude is a different beast, so proper hydration and acclimatization are paramount. Have an amazing and safe trip to Colorado!

[Speedyxy910]

It's great that you and your friends are fit and looking to tackle a 14er! Mid-June can be a tricky time for Colorado 14ers. While the "summer hiking season" generally begins in mid-June and extends to early September, snow can still be present, especially on north-facing slopes and at higher elevations.

Here's what you need to know and some suggestions for your trip:

General Mid-June 14er Conditions:

Snow: Expect to encounter some snow, particularly in early to mid-June. The amount will depend on the winter's snowfall and spring temperatures. While you might not need snowshoes, microspikes (traction devices that fit over your hiking boots) can be very helpful for navigating icy or hard-packed snowfields. Gaiters are also a good idea to keep snow out of your boots.
Melt-off: As the snow melts, trails can become wet, muddy, and sometimes swampy, especially at lower elevations.
Stream Crossings: Runoff from melting snow can cause streams to be high, potentially making some crossings challenging.
Weather: Colorado mountain weather is notoriously unpredictable. Even in June, you can experience a wide range of conditions, from warm sunshine to cold temperatures, strong winds, and afternoon thunderstorms.
Start Early: This is crucial. Afternoon thunderstorms are common and can develop rapidly. You want to be off the summit and ideally below treeline (around 11,500 feet) by noon to avoid being caught in dangerous lightning.
Layer Up: Bring multiple layers of clothing, including a waterproof and windproof outer shell, even if the forecast looks clear. You'll likely be shedding and adding layers throughout the hike.
Altitude Sickness: Being fit from cross country and track is excellent for the physical demands, but it doesn't prevent altitude sickness. Drink plenty of water (much more than you think you need), and consider acclimatizing for a day or two at a higher elevation (e.g., a town like Breckenridge, Leadville, or Salida) before your hike. If anyone starts to feel nauseous, dizzy, or has a severe headache, the safest course of action is to descend immediately.
Trail Crowds: The "easier" and more accessible 14ers can get very crowded, especially on weekends. Starting early helps avoid some of the crowds.

14ers Recommended for Beginners with Minimal Snow Gear (but still be prepared for some snow):

These peaks are generally Class 1 or 2 (meaning well-defined trails, possibly some minor scrambling, but no technical climbing) and have relatively accessible trailheads.

Mount Bierstadt (Front Range):
Why it's good: Very popular and relatively short (around 7 miles roundtrip, 2,850 ft elevation gain). The trailhead at Guanella Pass is paved and at a high elevation (over 11,000 ft), meaning less elevation gain from the start.
Mid-June conditions: Highly trafficked, so snow on the main trail tends to be packed down. Microspikes are often recommended in June. The initial section through willows can be wet and muddy.
Crowds: Expect crowds due to its proximity to Denver.

Quandary Peak (Near Breckenridge):
Why it's good: Another very popular and often recommended first 14er. The standard East Ridge route is a long, gradual trail (around 6.6 miles roundtrip, 3,326 ft elevation gain).
Mid-June conditions: Similar to Bierstadt, snow can be present but often packed. Microspikes can be useful. Parking reservations are required for Quandary Peak from June 1-September 30. You may need to plan for a shuttle if you can't secure a parking spot.
Crowds: Also very crowded.

Mount Sherman (Mosquito Range):
Why it's good: Shorter route (around 5 miles roundtrip, 2,027 ft elevation gain) with historical mining ruins along the way, which can add interest.
Mid-June conditions: Can have snow, but often dries out relatively early. Starting early is key to avoid post-holing in softened snow.
Access: The Fourmile Creek/Leavick trailhead road can be rough, but often manageable for 2WD vehicles.

Grays Peak and Torreys Peak (Front Range):
Why they're good: You can bag two 14ers in one day! The standard route is about 8 miles roundtrip with 3,550 ft elevation gain. The saddle between the peaks makes traversing between them relatively easy.
Mid-June conditions: Expect snow in shaded areas and potentially on the saddle. Microspikes could be beneficial. The access road (Stevens Gulch Road) can be rough and might require high-clearance, though some 2WD vehicles attempt it.
Crowds: Very popular, especially for bagging two peaks.

Mount Elbert (Sawatch Range):
Why it's good: The highest peak in Colorado, but surprisingly one of the "easiest" via its standard Northeast Ridge route. It's a long hike (around 9-10 miles roundtrip, 4,700 ft elevation gain), but it's a solid Class 1 trail.
Mid-June conditions: The Northeast Ridge often clears earlier than some other routes. You might encounter some snowfields, but they are typically manageable with just hiking boots, though microspikes could be a good safety net.
Location: Located near Leadville, which is a good base for acclimatization.

Essential Gear to Consider (beyond what you'd typically bring for a day hike):

Footwear: Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support and grip.
Traction: Microspikes are highly recommended for mid-June, even on "easy" 14ers.
Layers: Base layer, insulating mid-layer (fleece or puffy jacket), waterproof/windproof outer shell.
Headlamp: Even if you plan to be off the mountain by noon, it's a safety essential in case of unexpected delays or an earlier start.
Sun Protection: Sunscreen (apply frequently!), sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat. The sun at altitude is intense.
Water: At least 2-3 liters per person. Consider electrolyte drinks.
Food: High-energy snacks and lunch.
Navigation: Map, compass, and/or a GPS app on your phone (download offline maps).
First-Aid Kit: Comprehensive for blisters, cuts, and any other minor injuries.
Trekking Poles: Excellent for stability, especially on uneven terrain, rocky sections, and snowy slopes.
Emergency Blanket/Bivy: For unexpected delays or emergencies.

Before you go:

Check Conditions: Crucially, check recent trip reports and conditions on websites like 14ers.com in the days leading up to your hike. This will give you the most accurate information on snow levels and trail conditions.
Weather Forecast: Get a mountain-specific forecast for the peak you plan to climb and monitor it closely.
Start Early: Plan to be at the trailhead before sunrise (e.g., 5-6 AM) to ensure you are off the summit by noon.
Turn Around Time: Have a strict turn-around time, regardless of whether you've reached the summit. This is usually based on weather, energy levels, or simply being off the mountain by a certain hour to avoid afternoon storms.
Know Your Limits: Even "easy" 14ers are physically demanding at altitude. It's okay to turn around if someone in your group isn't feeling well or conditions become too challenging. The mountain will still be there.

Given your cross country and track background, you have a good fitness base, which is a huge advantage. However, the altitude is a different beast, so proper hydration and acclimatization are paramount. Have an amazing and safe trip to Colorado!

Thank you for all the advice and info! Looking at these, Quandary Peak aligns best with our itinerary. Additionally, how long approx. is that hike? Is it possible to begin at 8 and be off the summit by noon? I only ask because we will be coming from a campsite around 2 hr away. Thank you again!

[sfreytag]

Everything you need to know is right here: https://www.14ers.com/route.php?route=quan1

You can even download the 14ers app and save the route with pictures to your phone.

Just know if you do this on or after June 14th you will need to reserve a parking spot or take the shuttle from Breck. All the info is on that Quandary route page, linked above.

Yes that time frame is certainly doable if you are in shape and acclimated. Since its everyone's first 14er, just know you will probably move slower at that altitude than you think. Giving yourself extra time is never a bad idea.

[Wentzl]

You're making a great choice with Quandary Peak! It's a popular and accessible 14er.

Here's the breakdown for the Quandary Peak (East Ridge, the standard route):

Approximate Length: The standard East Ridge route is 6.75 miles round trip.
Average Hike Time: Most hikers take 4-7 hours to complete the round trip, with an average of 6 hours. This includes time for breaks and enjoying the summit.
Summit by Noon from an 8 AM Start: This is going to be very challenging and likely not advisable.

Here's why an 8 AM start with a noon summit goal is risky, especially given your 2-hour drive:

Typical Ascent Time: Even fast hikers or trail runners often take 2-3 hours to reach the summit. For the average hiker, it's more like 3-4 hours or more to get to the top.
Descent Time: While descent is generally faster, it still takes a significant amount of time – often 1.5-2.5 hours for the descent.
Afternoon Thunderstorms: The most critical factor is the risk of afternoon thunderstorms. These are common in the Colorado mountains, especially in summer, and typically roll in between noon and 2 PM. Being above treeline (which you will be for a significant portion of this hike) during a lightning storm is extremely dangerous. The general rule of thumb for 14ers is to be off the summit by noon.
Altitude and Pace: Even if you're in good shape, the altitude will slow you down. It's difficult to predict how your body will react.

Given your 2-hour drive, an 8 AM start from the trailhead would mean leaving your campsite at 6 AM. If you aim to be off the summit by noon, you would need to reach the summit by, say, 11 AM at the absolute latest, to allow for a quick turnaround and a safe descent. This would require an ascent of 3 hours, which is a fast pace for the average hiker.

My strong recommendation is to start Quandary Peak much earlier. To be safe and enjoy the experience, consider:

Leaving your campsite by 4:00 AM - 4:30 AM to be at the trailhead around 6:00 AM - 6:30 AM.
Starting your hike no later than 6:00 AM - 7:00 AM. This will give you ample time to reach the summit and descend safely before the typical afternoon storms arrive.

Also, be aware that Quandary Peak requires a parking reservation or shuttle ride from mid-June to mid-September. Make sure to check HikeQuandary.com for details and to secure your reservation well in advance, as spots fill up quickly.

Have a fantastic and safe hike!