South Mount Elbert Trailhead, Colorado — Attraction in Leadville

Pic 1 is the beginning of the trail, like 5 minutes in. Pic 2 is as far as I got. Snow pack in late May took us down, you really had to want it and it wasn't worth it for me.

From the trailhead to the false summit where we stopped was a brutal hike. In and out you are at 12 miles. My advice, 4 wheel drive it to the other trail head and save yourself almost 4 miles of hike. Overall I was on the mountain 8.5 hours.

Coming down we met a pair that peg-holed through the snow to summit and they said it was viscious getting there. If we didn't start at this trail and already spent 2.5 miles hiking instead of the other one, might have given summit a run. On Goolge Maps look for Mt. Ebert East Ridge and the 4x4 road to get you 2.5 miles closer than this trailhead. Although this is a stunning hike and beautiful, that extra length and time takes a toll.

Probably June and after snow melt the hike is different. Great time, wouldn't...

Just to give some back story. I am from Arkansas at about 400 feet elevation. Unfortunately the only "mountain" I hike in Arkansas is about 1100 feet. Well, the south trail head at Elbert starts at around 10000 feet. You can see how I might have been at a slight disadvantage? I tell you this because I want you to understand how this hike was for me and why it was so.

The trail itself is great and it is quite the accomplishment to reach the top. I am an active person about 4 to 5 days a week. This trail though, was one of the hardest things I have ever done. I want people reading this review to understand its complexity. Bring food, water, and some wind resistant clothing. When you do complete it though. It is, the best feeling of your life. Also, going down is so...

beautiful hike! still plenty of snow toward the top but i will return this summer when it has melted. i would also caution against using your walking / hiking GPS on google maps since it has the trails marked incorrectly. basically the continental divide & south elbert trail were switched on the map so it kept telling me to turn around as if i was going the wrong way. just follow the signs posted through the forested trails & you should be groovy! find a nice hiking stick & this will be a scenic route. also watch out for elk...