Mount Harvard stands at 14,420 feet and is the third-highest peak in the Lower 48. Nestled deep in the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness, it’s a long, non-technical Class 2 hike that rewards endurance with big alpine views and quiet summit solitude. The route is straightforward, but the approach is long—expect a full-day effort.
Mount Antero rises to 14,276 feet and stands as one of the prominent peaks in Colorado’s Sawatch Range. Known for its gemstone-rich slopes and wide, 4WD-accessible roads, Mount Antero offers a unique experience for hikers and off-roaders alike. It’s a Class 2 hike that can be done in a day, though the approach is long and the route is exposed to the elements.
Climbing a 14er—a peak with an elevation of at least 14,000 feet—is a bucket-list adventure for many hikers. However, timing your ascent is crucial for a safe and successful climb. Starting too late can put you at risk of thunderstorms, heat, and other hazards that can turn an enjoyable hike into a dangerous situation. Here’s what you need to know about timing your 14er adventure.
Waking up later than planned, I crawled out of my van with a packed bag, fueled by coffee and laced-up boots. Clicking my Coros watch to start recording my trek, I set off down the trail for a car-to-car push of Mount Massive. As Colorado's second-highest peak, I felt nervous but confident I could summit in good time. My legs were still sore from climbing Mount of the Holy Cross just a few days before, another challenging 14er in Colorado’s Sawatch Range.