Mt. Arkansas Summit
Starting from$429 pp
Take on the challenge of ascending a technical 13,000-foot peak during the winter season. With expert guidance, you’ll experience the beauty and intensity of Colorado’s winter backcountry while summiting these majestic mountains.
Winter Guided
Mt. Arkansas Summit
How difficult is Mount Arkansas compared to other fourteeners?
Despite standing just below 14,000 feet, Mount Arkansas offers a more technically challenging climb than many traditional fourteeners. The rugged terrain requires strong physical fitness, mental resilience, and a higher level of technical skill, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a tough winter ascent.
Do I need specialized skills to climb Mount Arkansas in winter?
While you don’t need extensive mountaineering experience, some technical skills are helpful for Mount Arkansas. Our guides will provide instruction on key techniques, such as navigating steep terrain and using crampons and an ice axe, but a good level of physical fitness and comfort with challenging conditions can be helpful.
What makes Mount Arkansas a unique winter climb?
Mount Arkansas offers a complex and varied route that often surpasses the technical difficulty of many traditional fourteeners. The climb features rugged ridges, steep ascents, and breathtaking views, providing a rewarding challenge for adventurers looking for something beyond the typical fourteener experience.
How long does it take to complete a winter ascent of Mount Arkansas?
The time needed for a Mount Arkansas ascent can vary, but it typically ranges from 10-14 hours depending on conditions and group pace. The route is more technical and challenging than many standard fourteeners, so expect a full day of adventure. Your guide will work with you to set expectations and prepare for the climb.
Testimonials
Mt. Arkansas Summit
Mt. Arkansas – Winter Mountaineering
Experience the rugged beauty of Colorado’s high country with our guided winter mountaineering adventure on Mount Arkansas. This thrilling alpine ascent offers a true test of endurance and skill, featuring snow-covered ridgelines, icy slopes, and breathtaking views from the 13,795-foot summit.
Perfect for any hikers ready to take on winter conditions, our expert guides provide essential gear, instruction in snow travel and ice axe techniques, and a focus on safety every step of the way. Whether you’re preparing for bigger peaks or simply seeking an unforgettable challenge, Mount Arkansas delivers a pure backcountry mountaineering experience.
Difficulty:
Easy – Difficult
Duration:
1 day
Location:
- Mt. Arkansas – 13795′
Policies
Terms, Conditions, and Cancellation Policy
Contact Us for Large Group bookings.
- Trip Planning & Preparation
- Choose a winter route suited to group fitness & ambition
- Bring proper physical conditioning and mental resilience
- Navigation & Safety
- Route planning using map and compass or GPS
- Emergency shelter basics (e.g., snow cave or bivy construction)
- Technical Skills Instruction
- Traveling on steep, icy terrain
- Use and care of crampons and ice axe
- Self-arrest technique training
- Avalanche safety & beacon use overview
- Guided Winter Ascent
- Full-day guided climb—expect 10–14 hours round-trip
- Pacing adapted to group’s fitness and snow conditions
- Scheduled breaks for rest, food, and viewing the scenic mountain scenery
- Risk Management & Terrain Awareness
- Identifying challenging features: rugged ridges, steep slopes
- Avoiding avalanche-prone terrain and spotting red flags
- Safety Gear & Emergency Preparedness
- Learn to adjust route plans based on weather, snow, and visibility
- Practice carrying out emergency response if conditions change
Available Daily
Select date on booking calendar above.
Apex Mountain School Provides
All technical hardware such as:
- Helmets
- Harnesses
- Ice Tools/Axes
- Snowshoes
- Crampons
- Mountaineering Boots
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)
- Be in strong physical condition for a 10–14 hour winter climb
- Dress in proper winter clothing layers (base, insulation, shell)
- Bring water, high-energy snacks, and a small backpack
- Required gear includes ice axe, crampons, helmet, beacon, probe, and shovel
- No prior mountaineering experience needed—skills are taught on the climb
- Gear rental available if needed
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Contact Us
We’re Happy To Help!
Reach out with any questions
Address
40800 US Highway 6, Unit 7, Avon, CO 81620