The Challenging Trail In Colorado Is One Of The Best In The State For Adventurers
By Christy Articola|Published April 18, 2024
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Christy Articola
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Christy Articola has lived in Colorado since 2013 and considers herself a Centennial State enthusiast and expert through and through. She's based in Denver metro, but over the past decade, she has traveled to every corner, river, village, park, town, and city in the state and continues to explore it deeper and further whenever she can. Christy simply can't get enough of Colorado, and loves sharing all her adventures with you through Only In Your State! She graduated with a degree in journalism from Fordham University and is thrilled to be working as a full time travel writer for this and other sites - she finally found her perfect niche - and is so grateful for that.
Are you looking for a challenging trail to hike in Colorado? If so, you absolutely have to take on this one. The Mount Harvard and Mount Columbia via Horn Fork Basin Loop Trail in the San Isabel National Forest is not a walk in the park, but we think it’s one of the best trails in Colorado. This is one that you’ll remember forever. Read on to learn more about it.
The Collegiate Peaks are some of the most beautiful mountains in Colorado. It's no surprise that so many people climb them every year. Mount Harvard is the tallest peak in this range at 14,421'. It's also the third tallest peak in the state of Colorado.
You can climb this mountain and nearby Mount Columbia - which is 14,077' in elevation - on one big hike - if you're an experienced and fit hiker, that is.
This hike is not for the faint of heart. It's 14.6 miles in length and comes with 5,770 feet of elevation gain.
In fact, there isn't even a trail between the peak of Mount Harvard and the peak of Mount Columbia - you'll need to find your own route for that part. Be sure to bring a GPS device - you don't want to get lost.
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However, if you put in the effort on this incredible trail, you'll be rewarded! This trail is beautiful the entire way.
You'll be dead tired by the end - but it's worth it. You're going to love this challenging but epic trail.
It’s easy to see why we think this is one of the best trails in Colorado. If you’re experienced and fit, this is a trail that you absolutely should not miss. Happy hiking!
