A Beginner's Guide to 14ers | Peña Picks: Summer Edition

by The Pena Team

Summer in Colorado hits differently. Long sunny days, cool mountain mornings, and endless ways to get outside make this one of the best places in the country to enjoy the season.

Welcome to Peña Picks: Summer Edition, where The Peña Team shares what makes living in Colorado Springs so special. Throughout this series, each team member will highlight local favorites, from food trucks and farmers markets to live music and outdoor adventures.

To kick things off, Anna is diving into one of Colorado’s most iconic experiences: 14ers.

Anna has completed all 58 Colorado 14ers and is sharing a few beginner-friendly options along with tips to help you get started safely and confidently.

What Is a 14er?

A 14er is a mountain that rises above 14,000 feet in elevation. Colorado is home to 58 of them, more than any other state in the U.S., which makes it a true destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.

These hikes are rewarding, but they are also physically demanding and high altitude. Even the most accessible peaks require preparation, awareness, and respect for the environment.

Important Safety Note

14ers are not casual hikes. They involve elevation gain, changing weather, and real risk.

Before attempting any 14er, make sure you:

Are physically prepared and trained
Bring plenty of water, food, and layers
Pack a basic first aid kit
Start early to avoid afternoon storms
Understand the route and conditions

3 Beginner 14ers to Try in Colorado

If you are new to high-altitude hiking, these peaks are some of the most approachable options to start with.

Quandary Peak (Reservation Required)

Location: Near Breckenridge
Why it stands out: One of the most popular beginner 14ers with a clear trail and steady climb

Quandary Peak is often considered the go-to for first-time 14ers. The trail is straightforward, well-marked, and offers incredible alpine views the entire way up.

What to know:

Reservations are required during peak season, so plan ahead
Expect a steady incline rather than technical climbing
It can get crowded, especially on weekends

What people enjoy most:

Stunning summit views of surrounding peaks
A clear, easy-to-follow trail
A sense of accomplishment without technical terrain

Pro Tips:

Book your parking reservation early
Start before sunrise to avoid crowds and weather
Bring trekking poles to help on the descent

Mount Bierstadt

Location: Near Georgetown
Why it stands out: Shorter mileage with a well-defined path

Mount Bierstadt is one of the most accessible 14ers in Colorado, making it a popular choice for beginners looking to experience high elevation without a long approach.

What to know:

Trail starts near Guanella Pass
Boardwalk sections help protect fragile terrain
Elevation gain still makes it a challenging hike

What people enjoy most:

Beautiful alpine lakes and scenery
Relatively shorter distance compared to other 14ers
Easy-to-follow route

Pro Tips:

Watch for afternoon storms, as the summit is exposed
Wear waterproof boots for early season conditions
Stay on the trail to protect the ecosystem

Grays Peak

Location: Near Silver Plume
Why it stands out: One of the highest and most accessible 14ers

Grays Peak offers a great introduction to higher elevation hiking with a gradual trail and incredible views. It is also the highest point on the Continental Divide.

What to know:

Longer drive on a rough road to the trailhead
Gradual incline makes it manageable for many hikers
Option to add Torreys Peak for experienced hikers

What people enjoy most:

Expansive mountain views
A steady climb that builds confidence
The option to extend the adventure

Pro Tips:

Check road conditions before heading out
Arrive early to secure parking
Pace yourself to manage altitude

Why Colorado’s 14ers Are So Special

Colorado is one of the only places in the country where you can experience this many high-elevation summits in one state. That means there are options for every level, from first-timers to experienced climbers.

For those living in or moving to areas like Colorado Springs, Monument, Falcon, or Pueblo West, access to these outdoor experiences is part of everyday life. Weekend adventures can include anything from local trails to world-class mountain summits.

Pro Tips for First-Time 14er Hikers

Getting started with 14ers takes planning and preparation. Here are a few key tips to set yourself up for success:

Train Before You Go

Start with local hikes around Colorado Springs to build endurance and get used to elevation.

Start Early

Most hikers begin before sunrise to avoid afternoon lightning storms.

Know Your Limits

Turn around if weather changes or if you are not feeling well. The summit will always be there.

Use Trusted Resources

Learn from reliable sources before heading out:

AllTrails for route details and reviews
14ers.com for conditions, routes, and updates
Colorado Fourteeners Initiative for education and stewardship

Final Thoughts: Summer in Colorado, Peña Style

This is just the beginning of Peña Picks: Summer Edition. From mountain summits to local favorites around Colorado Springs, The Peña Team is sharing the best ways to experience summer in our community.

Living here means having access to some of the most incredible outdoor opportunities in the country. Whether it is your first 14er or your fiftieth, there is always something new to explore.

See What The Peña Team Is Up To This Summer

One of the best parts about living in Colorado is how many ways there are to enjoy the season. From mountain adventures and local food to farmers markets and weekend getaways, each member of The Peña Team is sharing what they are up to this summer and what they recommend checking out around Colorado Springs and beyond.

Explore the rest of our Peña Picks: Summer Edition series: