Mount Elbert

This was our first 14er and we really enjoyed the challenge. We hiked up the South Elbert trail starting from Twin Lakes. We went up the 1.8 mile 4*4 road which saved us 3.6 miles round trip. We went up the "road" a day early when it was light outside. Trip started at 5:30 on the rough road for 4*4 vehicles. Started hiking at 6 am. There is no water on the 10 mile round trip hike. We took 3 quarts of water each and all needed this amount. At 11 am six of our seven people where on the summit. One stopped at 13K. Black clouds moved in about 11:30 am and we left the summit at 11:45 am. The trip down was 3 hours and very tough on the knees. Not much snow on the way up. Weather ranged from mid 40's starting out to 70 F about 10:30 am. On the summit with clouds the temp dipped to mid 40's again with a wind of about 10 mph. Incredible view from the summit. We went from Little Rock at 300 ft MSL to Twin Lakes at 9 K over a three day trip. Amarillo at 3K, Great Sand Dunes 8K and one night at twin lakes. ONly minor headaches from 3 team members. I took Diamox since in previous trips I had altitude sickness. With Diamox no problems dosage of 125 mg twice daily. Take several layers of clothes and conditioning for flat landers a must. Saw 30+ people while hiking but we enjoyed the company. Great Mt. to select for a first 14er.

Lodging around Elbert limited but Leadville only 15 minutes away.