Kit Carson Mountain and Challenger Point
A challenging scramble up two of Colorado’s 14,000-foot peaks. Like Crestone Needle and Crestone Peak, this is not a straightforward hike. It is a hard but nontechnical route climbing one of Colorado’s hardest 14,000-foot mountains. It involves some scrambling (hand and foot climbing) up a route on steep rock that could be covered with snow and ice. Wearing a helmet is advisable, and the use of an ice ax may also be required during the spring and early summer months. It also requires some route-finding skills and is surrounded by technical terrain. Only those who are comfortable on steep rock and willing to turn back if conditions are less than ideal should attempt it.
Driving Directions
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Directions to: Kit Carson Mountain and Challenger Point
print directionsTrail Statistics & Information
| Activity | Hiking |
|---|---|
| Nearby City | Crestone |
| Length | 5.2 mi |
| Elevation Gain | 2,500 ft |
| Skill Level | Strenuous |
| Duration | Out-and-back day hike from camp near Willow Lake |
| Season | Best July to October |
| Trailhead Elevation | 11,500 ft |
| Top Elevation | 14,165 ft |
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