Safety Information

Mountain weather is unpredictable and can change quickly. While daytime temperatures are generally mild (40-70 degrees), afternoon thundershowers are common and freezing temperatures, snow, and sleet can occur any month of the year. Be prepared with rain gear and extra layers of warm clothing.

The best way to avoid being struck by lightning is to avoid being above timberline during a thunderstorm. Thunderstorms occur frequently and rapidly in the afternoons, so plan your trip accordingly.

Combat altitude sickness by acclimating gradually and staying hydrated. If symptoms (i.e. severe headache, dizziness, or nausea) occur, immediately descent to a lower elevation.

Technical ability or special mountain climbing experience is not required to climb Mt. Elbert, but good physical condition is necessary.  The ascent and descent require a good full day of strenuous hiking; usually about 9 hours. Altitude can affect even the healthiest individual.