Hike a Colorado 13er
Colorado 13ers, tackle these slightly shorter peaks for summer solitude.
This summer, try bagging some 13ers versus joining in on the 14er craze. There are more than 600 13ers in Colorado to choose from. You’ll be rewarded with the same mountaineering glory and scarcely come across more than a handful of hikers. Below are three to get you going.
Colorado’s summer hiking season is in full swing and many peak-baggers are setting up and checking off their 14er (peaks topping 14,000 feet above sea level) wish lists. The state’s 53 peaks over 14,000 feet attract an ever-growing number of hikers, especially on the weekends, with trailheads often hitting capacity before sun-up.
Carson Peak
13,657 feet
Carson Peak, an easier-rated 13er nestled along the Continental Divide in Colorado’s San Juan Mountains, ranks among the state’s top 200 highest peaks. The most accessible route begins at the Carson Ghost Town trailhead, reached via Wager Gulch Road (FSR 876) south of Lake City. From this remote, high-altitude starting point, hikers can connect to Carson Pass and the Colorado Trail via 4WD access.
While considered less strenuous than many other 13ers, Carson Peak still presents a few challenges, including scree-covered ridges, rocky cliffs, and narrow traverses. The route ascends through alpine tundra, where you may spot a large herd of domestic sheep or the occasional elk, before following the ridge to the summit for sweeping views.
Be sure to explore nearby historic Lake City and the ghost town of Carson, where remnants of the silver and gold mining era—including cabins and equipment—offer a glimpse into Colorado’s rugged past.
Mount Audubon 
13,223 feet
Head to Indian Peaks Wilderness near Nederland and Brainard Lake for this eight-mile out-and-back trail. Novices appreciate the easy-to-follow route and the peak’s broad ridges, flowing tundra and expansive views. On a clear day, Rocky Mountain National Park’s Longs Peak is prominent in the northerly distance.
Start from Mitchell Creek Trailhead and climb past thick evergreens and a short boulder field, hiking switchbacks to the treeline. Follow the cairns and primitive rock shelters on your journey to the top.
Pikas and late-summer wildflowers thrive along the trail and the final push climbs talus slopes, repaying hikers with gorgeous views of Lake Granby, Winter Park and beyond. Be sure to begin your hike early and summit by noon to avoid lightning.
James Peak
13,294 feet
Fairly accessible from Denver, James Peak is reached via the Fall River Road exit off I-70 and the St. Marys Glacier trailhead. Topping this 13er requires an 8.3-mile round-trip moderate (some may say strenuous) trek and stealth trail detecting in a few spots.
Named for early Rocky Mountain botanist Edwin James, the trail meanders through dense willows and bristlecone pine, crossing the St. Marys Lake snowfield and eventually following the Continental Divide Trail.
Cool creeks and blooming brilliant wildflowers make cameos, along with rock gardens and distant waterfalls. All in all, it’s 3,000 feet to the spacious, flat summit, where a swivel in any direction affords classic Colorado vistas. Wave hello to nearby 14ers Grays and Torreys, Indian Peaks and Rocky Mountain National Park and a jagged lineup of Front Range peaks.
Be Prepared
Colorado’s 13,000-foot-plus peaks are serious business. Do your research and be fully prepared for high alpine conditions before you head out and up. Here are some basic tips:
- Get to the trailhead by sunrise and off the summit by noon to avoid afternoon lightning
- Know your route, study it and bring a map and compass
- Pack food, extra water and a first-aid kit
- Bring extra layers and waterproof rain gear
- Apply sunscreen and then reapply
- Hiking poles are a good idea.
By Lisa Blake
