Hiking BV's Famous 14'ers
Discover the natural wonders of Chaffee County, Colorado, where Buena Vista is nestled in the Arkansas River Valley underneath the Collegiate Peaks of the Sawatch Mountain Range. With the highest concentration of 14,000-foot summits in the state, boasting 15 of these majestic giants, Buena Vista becomes an irresistible destination for avid hikers. The access to any hike you want is just a short drive from downtown.
Let’s explore some hiking options…
Mt. Elbert
Difficulty: Mt. Elbert is considered a challenging hike and is rated as a Class 1 hike, suitable for experienced hikers.
Distance: The round-trip distance for the Mt. Elbert hike is approximately 9.5 miles (15.3 km) via the Northeast Ridge route.
What to bring: It is essential to bring proper hiking gear, including sturdy hiking boots, layered clothing for changing weather conditions, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, plenty of water, snacks, a map, and a compass.
When to go: The best time to hike Mt. Elbert is during the summer months, typically from June to September, when the weather is more favorable and the trail is mostly free of snow. It is important to check weather conditions and trail reports before embarking on the hike.
Description: Ascending to the pinnacle of Colorado’s highest peak, Mt. Elbert, offers a challenging and rewarding experience for hikers. As you make your way along the Northeast Ridge, you’ll be immersed in awe-inspiring vistas of the surrounding Sawatch Range, with sweeping panoramas that stretch as far as the eye can see. Conquer the summit and bask in the triumph of standing atop the magnificent crown jewel of the Rockies.
Mt. Yale
Difficulty: Mt. Yale is considered a moderately challenging hike and is rated as a Class 2 hike, suitable for experienced hikers comfortable with steeper terrain and exposure.
Distance: The round-trip distance for the Mt. Yale hike is approximately 9 miles (14.5 km) via the standard Southwest Slopes route.
What to bring: It is essential to bring appropriate hiking gear, including sturdy hiking boots, layered clothing for changing weather conditions, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, plenty of water, snacks, a map, a compass, and trekking poles for added stability on rocky sections.
When to go: The best time to hike Mt. Yale is during the summer and early fall months, typically from July to October, when the trail is clear of snow and the weather is more favorable. Check weather conditions and trail reports before heading out.
Description: Embarking on the Mt. Yale hike will lead you through a scenic journey along the Southwest Slopes, treating you to breathtaking vistas of the Collegiate Peaks. As you ascend, you’ll encounter alpine meadows, dense forests, and rocky terrain, all culminating in a rewarding summit experience where stunning views of the surrounding peaks await.
Mt. Antero
Difficulty: Mt. Antero is considered a challenging hike and is rated as a Class 2 hike, suitable for experienced hikers comfortable with steep inclines and uneven terrain.
Distance: The round-trip distance for the Mt. Antero hike is approximately 13 miles (20.9 km) via the Baldwin Gulch route.
What to bring: It is crucial to bring proper hiking gear, including sturdy hiking boots, layered clothing for changing weather conditions, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, plenty of water, snacks, a map, a compass, trekking poles for stability on rocky sections, and extra layers for protection against the high-altitude conditions.
When to go: The best time to hike Mt. Antero is during the summer and early fall months, typically from June to September, when the trail is accessible, and the weather is more favorable. It is important to check weather conditions and trail reports before undertaking the hike.
Description: Embark on an exhilarating adventure up the slopes of Mt. Antero, where you’ll navigate through rugged terrain, witness breathtaking alpine landscapes, and ultimately reach the summit, where panoramic views of the surrounding Sawatch Range and the Colorado high country await.
Come stay at A Riverhouse Lodge and soak in the cedar room hot tub after your big hike! Your knees will thank you. And don’t forget, big thunder and lightning storms like to roll into the valley almost daily during the summer. We recommend getting an early start (think ~3am) so you’re off the mountain before the storms roll in. It is extremely dangerous and should not be taken lightly.
