Winter 14er Peak Ascents
Take on the challenge of ascending a 14,000-foot peak during the winter season. With expert guides, you’ll experience the beauty and intensity of Colorado’s winter backcountry while summiting these majestic mountains.
Winter Guided
Winter 14er Peak Ascents
How much experience or training do I need for a winter fourteener ascent?
You don’t need extensive mountaineering experience to join our Winter Fourteeners trips. Our guides will tailor the experience based on your skill level, fitness, and goals, whether you’re a seasoned climber or new to winter ascents. We’ll communicate with you in advance to create a customized itinerary that fits your abilities and expectations, and we can make recommendations for prep work in advance.
Will I always reach the summit during a Winter Fourteener trip?
While reaching the summit is the goal, the primary focus of our trips is on safety and creating an incredible experience. Conditions in winter can be challenging, and not everyone may reach the peak on their first attempt. However, our guides ensure that the journey itself is rewarding, with breathtaking views, skill-building opportunities, and a memorable adventure regardless of the final altitude. Advanced physical training and our mountaineering 101/102/103 course series can help to prepare you in advance of your summit attempt.
What’s the difference between Mount Elbert and Mount Arkansas?
Mount Elbert is the highest peak in Colorado, offering a non-technical but physically demanding ascent, perfect for those seeking a classic fourteener experience. Mount Arkansas, though just shy of 14,000 feet, presents more technical challenges that often surpass those of many true fourteeners. It requires greater endurance, mental resilience, and strategic preparation, making it an excellent choice for climbers looking for a tougher winter ascent.
What should I bring for a Winter Fourteener trip?
Apex Mountain School provides essential gear for your Winter Fourteeners ascent, including boots, crampons, ice axes, helmets, and harnesses (up to 42”/44” max). You’ll also need a beacon, probe and shovel, which you can rent from us if needed. Additionally, please bring layered clothing, a sturdy backpack, snacks, and water. For a detailed packing list, check out our “What You Should Bring” tab.
Testimonials
Winter 14er Peak Ascents
Winter 14er Peak Ascents
Winter 14er Peak Ascents with Apex Mountain School offers it all. Colorado is home to the greatest number of peaks at or above 14,000 feet in North America. Here, mountain enthusiasts have the chance to experience one of the most impressive mountain ranges on the continent.
In addition to winter mountaineering courses, we also offer privately guided trips the most majestic Colorado Winter Ascents. Our guides will work with you to select a route and itinerary that meet your specific needs and goals.
Disclaimer
Mount Arkansas, standing at 13,795 feet, is just a few feet shy of being classified as a fourteener, but don’t let that fool you—this peak offers a significantly more complex climbing experience. The technical challenges of Arkansas often surpass those of traditional fourteeners, demanding not only physical endurance but also mental resilience and strategic preparation. Climbers may encounter altitude sickness, difficult conditions, and the need for greater stamina than expected, making it a comprehensive challenge for any adventurer. Whether you’re navigating its rugged terrain or managing the psychological demands of high-altitude climbing, Mount Arkansas proves to be a formidable and rewarding pursuit
Difficulty:
Easy – Difficult
Duration:
1 day
Location:
- Arkansas – 13795′
- Elbert – 14439′
Policies
Terms, Conditions, and Cancellation Policy
Contact Us for Large Group bookings.
Topics we typically cover include:
- Trip planning
- Navigation with map & compass and/or GPS device
- Emergency shelter construction
- Movement skills
- Self arrest
Available Daily
Select date on booking calendar above.
Apex Mountain School Provides
- Guided winter ascents of Colorado 14,000-ft peaks (e.g., Mt. Elbert, Mt. Arkansas)
- Suitable for all skill levels — from beginners to experienced climbers
- Safety-focused with expert AMGA-certified guides All necessary technical gear provided: boots, crampons, ice axes, helmet, harness
- Topics covered (e.g., navigation, self-arrest, emergency shelter construction, movement skills)
- Quick trip info: all ages 12+, 1-day duration, daily availability Stunning winter mountain scenery with summits of iconic peaks
- Clear “What to Bring” checklist: layering, beacon rental, gloves, goggles, snacks, etc.
- Trip insurance options mentioned
Excludes
- No detailed pricing—cost per person or group not specified
- No specific time schedule or pace (start time, summit timeframe)
- Limited personal gear guidance beyond the checklist—no rental fees or extras explained
- No cancellation, refund, or rescheduling policy included
- No minimum fitness level or physical requirements stated
- No explicit mention of client-to-guide ratio or group size limits
What to Bring
- Beacon (rental available)
- *No cotton – cotton does not wick moisture or insulate when wet.
- Synthetic or wool long underwear bottom (thin)
- Synthetic or wool long sleeve top (medium)
- Mid layer top and bottom
- Synthetic or wool socks
- Winter jacket
- Insulated “Puffy” Jacket
- Snow pants
- Warm gloves or mittens
- Hat and neck gaiter or balaclava
- Goggles or sunglasses
- Small day pack
- Water bottle
- Food
ALSO CONSIDER
- Hand warmers
- Thermos of hot liquid
- Gaiters
- Extra gloves
- Lip balm
- Sunscreen
- Water bottle insulator
- Camera
APEX MOUNTAIN SCHOOL PROVIDES
- Boots
- Crampons
- Ice Axes
- Helmet
- Harness (42”/44” max)
- Dress in warm, moisture-wicking layers (avoid cotton)
- Wear a waterproof and windproof outer layer(jacket and pants)
- Bringinsulated gloves, hat, and a neck gaiter or balaclava
- Weargoggles or sunglassesto protect against snow glare
- Useinsulated, waterproof bootssuitable for crampons
- Pack a small backpackfor water, snacks, and extra layers
- Carryhigh-energy snacksand at least 1 liter of water
- Applysunscreen and lip balmto protect against sun and wind
- Bringtrekking poles(if you have them; optional)
- Make sure to rent or bring essential gear: crampons, ice axe, helmet, harness
- Be physically prepared for a full day of hiking at altitude
- Inform the guide of any medical conditions or concerns
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Take on the challenge of ascending a 14,000-foot peak during the winter season. With expert guides, you’ll experience the beauty and intensity of Colorado’s winter backcountry while summiting these majestic mountains.
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Contact Us
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Reach out with any questions
Address
40800 US Highway 6, Unit 7, Avon, CO 81620