How to Climb Mount Columbia in Colorado
Mount Columbia, at 14,073 feet, is part of Colorado’s Collegiate Peaks and lies just north of its loftier neighbor, Mount Harvard. Once notorious for its steep, eroded slopes, recent trail improvements have made this a more enjoyable hike—though it’s still a serious effort. The standard route via the new Columbia Trail remains Class 2, with long mileage, big gain, and sweeping views across Horn Fork Basin.
Getting to the Trailhead
From Buena Vista, head north on US 24 and turn west on County Road 350. After about 2 miles, turn right onto County Road 365 and follow it to the North Cottonwood Creek Trailhead at 9,880 feet. The road is graded dirt and generally passable to most vehicles in summer. The parking area is small and fills early—arrive before sunrise or consider overnighting in the basin.
Route Overview: West Slopes via Horn Fork Basin
Start on the Horn Fork Basin Trail, the same approach used for Mount Harvard. The trail climbs steadily through pine forest and opens up into alpine tundra around 11,400 feet. At roughly 11,600 feet, a signed junction marks the turnoff for the Mount Columbia Trail—take a right and begin climbing Columbia’s western slopes.
The new trail is well-built and makes use of long switchbacks to gain the ridge, avoiding the steep and eroded fall line that gave this mountain a bad reputation. Once on the ridge, follow the cairned route over rock and tundra toward the summit. The final push involves some loose talus and a faint trail, but nothing technical.
From the summit, you’ll get clear views of Mount Harvard, Mount Yale, and the surrounding wilderness. Total round-trip distance is about 11 miles with 4,250 feet of elevation gain.
Tips for Climbing Mount Columbia
The climb is best done late June through September—snow lingers on the upper trail in early season.
If combining with Mount Harvard, prepare for a steep and rugged ridge traverse—there’s no easy connection between the two.
Bring plenty of water; there are no reliable sources once you leave the main Horn Fork trail.
Trekking poles help significantly on the descent.
Be ready for wind exposure above treeline, especially on the summit ridge.
Mount Columbia is no longer the muddy mess it once was. Thanks to thoughtful rerouting, this peak offers a more enjoyable trail experience while still delivering the wild beauty and solitude of the Collegiate Peaks.
