Lake County - Mount Elbert

Mount Elbert is Colorado's highest peak and the second highest peak in the lower 48 states with an elevation of 14,433 feet. There are five main routes to the summit, the two most popular are the South Mt. Elbert Trail and the North (Main) Mt. Elbert Trail, both being well trodden class one trails. These relatively easy paths to the summit are busy in the summer, attracting all types of hikers and climbers. South Elbert Trail is 5.5 miles long and can be accessed from Shore Pretty Overlook above Twin Lakes on County Road 24. Four-wheel drive vehicles can travel an additional 1.8 miles on Forest Service Road 125.B. South Mt. Elbert Trail forks off the Colorado Trail, which continues to Halfmoon Creek. It is the "easiest" route to Mt. Elbert, but remember, the elevation gain is still 4,600 feet. North (Main) Elbert Trail is 4.6 miles long and is located off the Halfmoon Road (FSR 110) southwest of Leadville. The trailhead is just past Elbert Creek Campground. With an elevation gain of 4,500 feet, this trail can be quite strenuous, but definitely rewarding.