Mount Elbert via Northeast Ridge

Mount Elbert's Northeast Ridge is the standard route up the highest peak in Colorado (14,440 ft) and the second-highest in the contiguous United States. The trail begins at the North Elbert Trailhead near Twin Lakes and climbs steadily through aspen groves and spruce-fir forest before breaking above treeline onto the broad northeast ridge. The final mile is a steep but non-technical push to the summit over talus and tundra. Round trip is 9.5 miles with 4,700 feet of elevation gain. The summit offers 360-degree views of the Sawatch Range, Mount Massive, and the Arkansas River Valley.