March 2, 2023
Photo by @jackbrauer
Mt. Harvard
Difficulty
Moderate
Location
Get ready to reach new heights with Mount Harvard, Colorado’s third highest “fourteener” at a whopping 14,421 feet. It may not be the absolute tallest in the Sawatch Range, but it’s just a smidge shorter than neighboring Mount Massive and Mount Elbert.
Located about ten miles northwest of Buena Vista, this peak is a moderate to difficult hike offering epic views that will leave you breathless. If you’re up for the challenge, strap on your hiking boots and head to the popular North Cottonwood Trailhead, where the adventure begins.
The trail unveils mesmerizing scenery, guiding you through rocky meadows, talus slopes, and alpine tundra adorned with wildflowers. Marvel at the panoramic vistas from the ridge extending from Peak 13588, offering breathtaking views of Bear Lake, Mt. Columbia, Mt. Yale, and the distant Mt. Princeton. Brace yourself for the final stretch, as you navigate steep slopes and embark on a Class 2 climb to reach the summit.
How to get to Mt. Harvard
- Start in Buena Vista and head west on Crossman Avenue (County Road 350) for 2 miles.
- Turn right onto County Road 361 and continue for about 1 mile.
- Make a left onto County Road 365.
- Drive towards the mountains, and once you enter the canyon, it’s recommended to have a 4WD vehicle.
- Follow the dirt road for 5 miles until you reach the trailhead at the end of the road.
- The trail begins by ascending the canyon and soon reaches a junction.
- Take the left path to Kroenke Lake, but if you’re heading towards Mt. Harvard and Mt. Columbia, stay on the right.
- Continue along the trail, which leads up the Horn Fork Basin.
- At another junction, veer right to Mt. Columbia.
- Stay on the path, passing by Bear Lake, and begin the climb up the south ridge towards the summit of Mt. Harvard.
Note: These directions are provided as a general guide, and it’s always recommended to have a detailed map, proper navigation tools, and knowledge of the area before embarking on any outdoor adventure.
What people say about Mt. Harvard
Likes:
- Majestic Views: People love the breathtaking vistas from the summit, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and wilderness.
- Challenging Adventure: Many enjoy the thrill and sense of accomplishment that comes with tackling the demanding hike and scramble to the summit.
- Remote Wilderness: Mt. Harvard’s location in the secluded Sawatch Range allows visitors to immerse themselves in pristine nature and escape the crowds.
- Natural Beauty: The rugged landscapes, alpine meadows, and wildflower-filled slopes captivate hikers, providing a picturesque backdrop throughout the journey.
- High Elevation: Outdoor enthusiasts appreciate the opportunity to experience the alpine environment and the unique challenges and rewards it brings.
- Solitude: While popular, Mt. Harvard is generally less crowded compared to some other famous peaks in Colorado, offering a quieter and more serene experience.
- Nearby Peaks: Being close to Mt. Columbia allows adventurers to easily explore and conquer two impressive “fourteeners” in one trip.
- Sense of Accomplishment: Reaching the summit of Mt. Harvard is a notable achievement that leaves visitors with a great sense of pride and fulfillment.
- Wildlife Encounters: The wilderness surrounding Mt. Harvard is home to a variety of wildlife, and sightings of mountain goats, marmots, and other animals add to the experience.
- Varied Terrain: Hikers appreciate the diverse landscapes encountered during the ascent, including rocky slopes, lush meadows, and alpine tundra, providing a dynamic and engaging journey.
Dislikes:
- Difficult Accessibility: The remote location and challenging roads leading to the trailhead can be a deterrent for some visitors, especially those without a 4WD vehicle.
- Altitude Sickness: The high elevation can cause discomfort or altitude-related symptoms for individuals not acclimated to the thin air, impacting their enjoyment of the hike.
- Steep and Technical Sections: While appreciated by some, the steep and rocky sections of the trail can be physically demanding and pose challenges for less experienced hikers.
- Weather Conditions: The unpredictable mountain weather, including sudden storms and high winds, can disrupt plans and make the hike more challenging or unsafe.
- Long Hiking Distance: The round-trip distance to the summit can be lengthy, requiring considerable time and endurance, which might not be appealing to everyone.
- Limited Camping Options: Campsites along the trail may be scarce or require additional permits, limiting overnight options for those wanting to spend more time in the area.
- Crowds on Peak Season: During peak hiking season, Mt. Harvard can attract a fair number of visitors, leading to a busier trail and reduced solitude.
- Scrambling Difficulty: The Class 2 scramble towards the summit can be intimidating or challenging for individuals with a fear of heights or limited experience with technical terrain.
- Lack of Signage: Some hikers have mentioned missing or unclear trail signs, which can be frustrating and potentially lead to navigation issues.
- Limited Amenities: As a wilderness area, the trailhead and surrounding area lack amenities such as restrooms or facilities, requiring visitors to come well-prepared.
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