South Mount Elbert Trail #1481
South Mt. Elbert Trail #1481 is 5.8 miles long and can be accessed from the South Elbert Trailhead above Twin Lakes on County Road 24. Four-wheel drive vehicles can travel an additional 1.8 miles on Forest Service Road 125.B during the summer season. During the winter season, this road is impassable to vehicles. South Mt. Elbert Trail forks off the Colorado Trail, which continues to Halfmoon Creek. It is the "easiest" route to Mt. Elbert, but remember, the elevation gain is still 4,800 feet.This trail is a great route and a relatively easy hike for someone in reasonable physical condition. The trail is well established and easy to follow. The key to a successful climb is an early start. A sunrise start is ideal to beat the afternoon storms.
Please follow Leave No Trace Outdoor Ethics to ensure that this and future generations experience this special place in its natural condition.
This is considered one of the two standard routes for Mt. Elbert. The main route is via the Northeast Ridge and is called the North Mount Elbert Trail #1484. Either one is good in summer conditions, but the South Mt. Elbert Trail #1481 is considered the standard winter route.
At a Glance
Current Conditions: | Winter conditions exist. Check the CDOT for current road conditions and CAIC for avalanche safety information. |
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Permit Info: | Commercial and organized groups must obtain a permit through the Leadville Ranger District in advance of their trip. |
Usage: | Medium-Heavy |
Busiest Season: | June-September |
Closest Towns: | Buena Vista and Leadville, CO |
Water: | None |
Restroom: | None |
Information Center: | Leadville Ranger District |
General Information
Directions:From Leadville, travel 15 miles south on US 24 to State Hwy 82. Travel west 3.75 miles to Lake County Road 24 and turn right. Go north 1.5 miles to the South Elbert Trailhead. Four-wheel-drive vehicles can travel an additional 1.8 miles on FSR 125.B during the summer season, but this road cannot be driven during the winter months.
General Notes:
- Mountain weather is unpredictable and can change quickly. Be prepared with rain gear and extra layers of warm clothing. Always check the weather forecast before heading out.
- Thunderstorms occur frequently in the afternoons, so plan your trip accordingly. Also, keep in mind thunderstorms build rapidly, so keep an eye on the weather and get below timberline at the first sign of a thunderstorm. Follow these Lightening Safety Tips.
- Combat altitude sickness by acclimating gradually and staying hydrated. If symptoms (i.e., severe headache, dizziness, or nausea) do occur, immediately descend to a lower elevation.
- At high altitudes, sunlight is much more intense and the air is much drier. Wear sunscreen and a hat, and drink plenty of fluids. Always carry a map and compass and know how to use them.
Activities
Mountain Climbing
General Info:
Permits & RegulationsThousands of people enjoy climbing Colorado’s peaks. To protect natural resources and preserve the experience for others, please follow Leave No Trace hiking techniques: http://www.lnt.org/programs/principles.php
Remember, you are within the Mt. Elbert Wilderness. As such, special regulations apply, including:
- Campfires are prohibited within 100 feet of water and trails;
- Group size is limited to 15 people per group with a maximum combination of 25, including pack and saddle animals, in any one group within wilderness;
- Dogs must be under physical restraint of a leash at all times;
- Bicycles are prohibited;
- Organized groups are required to obtain approval from the Forest Service, Leadville District Office (719-486-0749);
- Short-cutting switchbacks is prohibited.
Safety Information
Mountain weather is unpredictable and can change quickly. Be prepared with rain gear and extra layers of warm clothing. Thunderstorms occur frequently in the afternoons, so plan your trip accordingly. Also, keep in mind thunderstorms build rapidly, so keep an eye on the weather and get below timberline at the first sign of a thunderstorm.
Combat altitude sickness by acclimating gradually and staying hydrated. If symptoms (i.e. severe headache, dizziness, or nausea) occur, immediately descend to a lower elevation. At this altitude, sunlight is much more intense, and the air is much drier. Wear sunscreen and a hat, and drink plenty of fluids. Always carry a map and compass, and know how to use them.
Seasonal Information
Snow, rain and lightning storms are common. Daytime temperatures range from 40-70 degrees in the summer months. Be prepared for changing weather. Carry rain gear and extra layers of warm clothing.