Colorado’s fifty-eight 14ers (peaks 14,000 feet or higher in elevation) vary from relatively simple hikes to challenging climbs on highly technical terrain. If you want a more straightforward introduction to 14ers, consider climbing one of the six Class 1 14ers. These peaks each have a hiking trail running from the trailhead to the summit, with zero scrambling or climbing required and little to no exposure. They are perfect if you want spectacular summit views without exacerbating a fear of eights. Here are the six peaks listed in order of difficulty, from the easiest to the most difficult.
Table of Contents
What is A Class 1 14er?
Most mountain-climbing routes are rated according to the technical difficulty of their climb using the Yosemite Decimal System (YDS). Class 1 routes, the easiest, are hiking trails without scrambling or climbing involved. Class 2 routes include simple scrambling, class 3 routes, rise to advance scrambling, and very simple climbing. Class 4 terrain includes simple to moderate climbing where using a rope and anchor system is not practical or possible. While no 14er standard routes are class 5, this level involves technical roped climbing.
Protect the Peaks: Leave No Trace
Respecting the environment is paramount for all climbers and hikers. Leaving no trace ensures that Colorado’s breathtaking landscapes remain unspoiled for future generations. Here are seven principles to follow while visiting these class 14ers and other alpine areas.
- Plan Ahead and Prepare: Know regulations, special concerns, and weather conditions.
- Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces: Stick to designated trails and campsites.
- Dispose of Waste Properly: Pack it in, pack it out, including food waste.
- Leave What You Find: Preserve the past, do not disturb historical or natural structures.
- Minimize Campfire Impact: Use established fire rings and keep fires small.
- Respect Wildlife: Observe from a distance, do not feed animals.
- Be Considerate of Other Visitors: Respect others’ outdoor experiences and protect the quality of their experience.
Map of Colorado Class 1 14ers
Click a marker to learn more about each peak, or keep reading below!
The Six Colorado Class 1 14ers
Here are the six class 1 14er standard routes in Colorado, listed from least difficult to most difficult, based on elevation gain and mileage. Check out my route guides for each route to get more info, route descriptions, maps, and photos.
1. Handies Peak - 5.5 miles - 2,500 feet
Handies Peak is a welcoming introduction to Colorado’s 14ers, providing a gentle hike with sweeping vistas. It is the easiest of the six class 1 14ers of Colorado. The Southwest Slopes route is well-maintained, making it accessible for beginners. However, it’s located deep in southern Colorado far from population centers.
- Standard Route: Southwest Slopes
- Trailhead: American Basin
- Elevation Gain: 2,500 feet
- Round-Trip Distance: 5.5 Miles
- Difficulty Level: Class 1 Hike
- Range: San Juans
2. Quandary Peak - 6.75 miles - 3,450 feet
Quandary Peak is popular among hikers due to its proximity to Denver and a relatively short hike. The east ridge standard route offers beautiful landscapes and a chance to see mountain goats and bighorn sheep.
- Standard Route: East Ridge
- Trailhead: Quandary Peak
- Elevation Gain: 3,450 feet
- Round-Trip Distance: 6.75 Miles
- Difficulty Level: Class 1 Hike
- Range: Ten-mile Range
3. Grays Peak - 8.6 miles - 3,650 feet
Grays Peak’s long trail is fulfilling without being overly challenging. The North Slopes route provides fascinating geology and breathtaking views of nearby Torreys Peak. You can climb its twin peak, too, if you add 1.5 miles to the route and a few hundred additional feet of gain.
- Standard Route: North Slopes
- Trailhead: Grays Peak
- Elevation Gain: 3,650 feet
- Round-Trip Distance: 8.6 Miles
- Difficulty Level: Class 2 Scramble
- Range: Front Range
4. Mount Elbert - 9.5 miles - 4,600 feet
Mount Elbert is the highest peak in Colorado and the second-highest in the contiguous U.S. The Northeast Ridge route offers a consistent ascent with forested trails and alpine views. It’s the easiest way to reach the highest point in the entire Rocky Mountain chain.
- Standard Route: Northeast Ridge
- Trailhead: Mt Elbert (North)
- Elevation Gain: 4,700 feet
- Round-Trip Distance: 9.5 Miles
- Difficulty Level: Class 1 Hike
- Range: Sawatch Range
5. San Luis Peak - 13.5 miles - 3,600 feet
San Luis Peak is known for its solitude and wilderness. The Northeast Ridge trail is a long but gentle ascent through lush forests and open meadows. The hardest part about this ascent is reaching the trailhead, which includes 4WD terrain and multiple creek crossings.
- Standard Route: Northeast Ridge
- Trailhead: Stewart Creek
- Elevation Gain: 3,600 feet
- Round-Trip Distance: 13.5 Miles
- Difficulty Level: Class 1 Hike
- Range: San Juan Range
6. Pikes Peak - 24 miles - 7,600 feet
Pikes Peak is one of the most famous mountains in the U.S., known for its unique geological features and panoramic views. It is also the most difficult of all the class 1 14ers. The East Slopes route is longer than any other standard 14er route but offers an opportunity for a true wilderness experience with an overnight at Barr Camp.
- Standard Route: East Slopes
- Trailhead: Manitou Springs
- Elevation Gain: 7,600 feet
- Round-Trip Distance: 24 Miles
- Difficulty Level: Class 1 Hike
- Range: Front Range
14ers Are Dangerous: Here’s How to Stay Safe
Climbing 14ers can be hazardous, even the relatively class 1 14ers shared here. To increase your odds of returning home safely, follow these important tips and guidelines:
Plan Ahead Properly: Familiarize yourself with the route, potential hazards, and emergency contacts.
Take Time to Acclimate: Spend some days at elevation to adapt to the high altitude.
Watch out for Altitude Sickness: Know the symptoms and treatment of altitude sickness.
Start Early to Avoid Thunderstorms: Afternoon storms are common, so start early to avoid getting caught in dangerous weather.
Pack the 10 Essentials: Including a map, compass, sunglasses, extra clothing, and more.
Go with a Partner: Climbing with a buddy increases safety.
Learn Basic First Aid: Know the essential first aid techniques for common injuries.
Research the Weather Forecast: Stay updated with the weather conditions.
Stay on Trail/Route: Following the designated route minimizes environmental impact and risks.
Know and Respect Your Limits: Understand your physical abilities and turn back if needed.
Learn more by reading our comprehensive mountain safety guide to ensure you have a safe and successful climb. Safe travels on the trails!
What to Pack for a Class 1 14er?
The right gear will increase your odds of summiting and help you have a safe and enjoyable adventure. Just because you see others climbing 14ers without everything on this list does not mean it is a good idea. Here is a complete packing checklist for class 1 14ers and other peaks in Colorado and beyond. Click each item below to see my personal recommendation.
- Hiking Boots: Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots
- Backpack: Osprey Talon 22 Backpack
- Water (2 Liters): CamelBak 2L Reservoir
- Food (1,000 Calories): Cliff Bars
- First Aid Kit: Mountain Series Explorer Medical Kit
- Extra Layers: Patagonia Nanopuff Jacket
- Topographic Map: National Geographic: North 14ers & South 14ers
- GPS Device: Garmin eTrex SE Unit
- Compass: Suunto A-10 Compass
- Sunglasses & Sunscreen: Julbo Camino Spectron 4
- Fire Starting Kit: UCO Titan Stormproof Match Kit
- Rain Gear: REI Co-op Trailmade Rain Jacket
- Knife/Multitool: Leatherman Tool
- Trek Poles: REI Co-op Traverse Trekking Poles
- Satellite Messenger: Garmin inReach Messenger
- Headlamp: Black Diamond Spot 400
- Emergency Shelter: SOL Emergency Blanket
FAQs
Below are some of the most common questions related to Colorado’s class one 14ers. If you do not see your question below, email us or leave it in a comment below, and we will provide an answer as soon as possible.
