Ascending Hikes – Mt Elbert - North Elbert Trail

Mt Elbert is the highest 14er in Colorado standing at 14,439ft. The hike up the northeast ridge follows a good trail for the 9.5 mile round trip, with 4,500ft of elevation gain. At the summit, you'll get great views of the Sawatch Range and, if it’s clear, the Sangre de Cristos.

We will depart the trailhead on Halfmoon Creek Road promptly at 6:10 am with headlamps.  We'll follow the Continental Divide Trail for about a mile then continue on the Mt Elbert trail and climb the northeast ridge.  We will then follow the trail along the ridge to the summit.

This hike is for strong Ascending Hikers who have been working on high altitudes and long distances over the past several months. You must have successfully done at least one hike above 13,000ft in the last month to participate on this hike.  Do not underestimate the altitude gain.  This hike is Register with Leader for this purpose.  

As with all high altitude hikes - this trip will be weather dependent.

You can meet the group at the Safeway in Leadville or at the North Elbert Trailhead – see options below. You must tell the leaders your decision.

Option 1 - Meet at the Leadville Safeway at 5:15 am for a 5:25 departure. The Safeway is located at 1900 Poplar Street, Leadville, CO 80461 – Google Map for Safeway.

Option 2 - Meet the group at the North Elbert Trailhead at 6:00 am for a prompt 6:10 am departure.  The trailhead is easy to access with 2 wheel-drive car – Google Map for TH.

If you want to camp the night prior, the Elbert Creek Campground is very close to the trailhead. It is a first-come, first served campground – Link to Elbert Creek Campground Information