Winter 14er Peak Ascents
Take on the challenge of ascending a 14,000-foot peak during the winter season. With expert guides, you’ll experience the beauty and intensity of Colorado’s winter backcountry while summiting these majestic mountains.
Guided winter ascents of Colorado’s famous 14ers
All levels welcome, from beginners to seasoned mountaineers
Safety-focused with expert guides and full gear provided
Breathtaking views of snow-covered peaks and valleys
MT. ARKANSAS
MT. ELBERT
How much experience or training do I need for a winter fourteener ascent?
You don’t need extensive mountaineering experience to join our Winter Fourteeners trips. Our guides will tailor the experience based on your skill level, fitness, and goals, whether you’re a seasoned climber or new to winter ascents. We’ll communicate with you in advance to create a customized itinerary that fits your abilities and expectations, and we can make recommendations for prep work in advance.
Will I always reach the summit during a Winter Fourteener trip?
While reaching the summit is the goal, the primary focus of our trips is on safety and creating an incredible experience. Conditions in winter can be challenging, and not everyone may reach the peak on their first attempt. However, our guides ensure that the journey itself is rewarding, with breathtaking views, skill-building opportunities, and a memorable adventure regardless of the final altitude. Advanced physical training and our mountaineering 101/102/103 course series can help to prepare you in advance of your summit attempt.
What’s the difference between Mount Elbert and Mount Arkansas?
Mount Elbert is the highest peak in Colorado, offering a non-technical but physically demanding ascent, perfect for those seeking a classic fourteener experience. Mount Arkansas, though just shy of 14,000 feet, presents more technical challenges that often surpass those of many true fourteeners. It requires greater endurance, mental resilience, and strategic preparation, making it an excellent choice for climbers looking for a tougher winter ascent.
What should I bring for a Winter Fourteener trip?
Apex Mountain School provides essential gear for your Winter Fourteeners ascent, including boots, crampons, ice axes, helmets, and harnesses (up to 42”/44” max). You’ll also need a beacon, probe and shovel, which you can rent from us if needed. Additionally, please bring layered clothing, a sturdy backpack, snacks, and water. For a detailed packing list, check out our “What You Should Bring” tab.
Climb a Fourteener Description
Winter 14er Peak Ascents with Apex Mountain School offers it all. Colorado is home to the greatest number of peaks at or above 14,000 feet in North America. Here, mountain enthusiasts have the chance to experience one of the most impressive mountain ranges on the continent.
In addition to winter mountaineering courses, we also offer privately guided trips the most majestic Colorado Winter Ascents. Our guides will work with you to select a route and itinerary that meet your specific needs and goals.
Disclaimer
Mount Arkansas, standing at 13,795 feet, is just a few feet shy of being classified as a fourteener, but don’t let that fool you—this peak offers a significantly more complex climbing experience. The technical challenges of Arkansas often surpass those of traditional fourteeners, demanding not only physical endurance but also mental resilience and strategic preparation. Climbers may encounter altitude sickness, difficult conditions, and the need for greater stamina than expected, making it a comprehensive challenge for any adventurer. Whether you’re navigating its rugged terrain or managing the psychological demands of high-altitude climbing, Mount Arkansas proves to be a formidable and rewarding pursuit
Topics we typically cover include:
- Trip planning
- Navigation with map & compass and/or GPS device
- Emergency shelter construction
- Movement skills
- Self arrest
Booking & Availability
Ready to embark on your winter adventure? We’re excited to guide you on your Winter 14er journey. Reserve your spot through the calendar below, or for more information, call us at (970) 949-9111 or visit our contact page.
If you don’t see enough availability for your group, give us a call—our team can often accommodate larger groups or special requests with flexibility. Let’s get you out in the snow!
Quick Information
Course Overview:
Enjoy these Winter Ascents in the Colorado Rockies surrounding Vail, Colorado.
All ages, 12 & up!
Dates:
Available daily
Duration:
1 day
Locations:
- Mt. Arkansas – 13795′
- Mt. Elbert – 14439′
Difficulty:
Easy – Difficult
Special Requests:
See our inclusion policy for special group requests.
What you should bring
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)
Meet our guides
Our guides are dedicated to giving the safest, most fulfilling experience to our clients. With the most AMGA certifications we have the most qualified guides in the area.
What are you waiting for?
