Mount Elbert

PupsPintsPeaks

Apr 29

Written By Sandra

Six Pack of Peaks: Mount Elbert

7/6/25

Out & Back

Miles Hiked: 11.2 miles

Elevation gain: 4,101 ft

Total elevation: 14,440 ft

Pairs well with: Summit Pancakes

Luxury Item[noun]: an item whose function dose not typically justify the weight carried, but are appreciated at specific points on trail (ie griddle for pancakes).

Jake had his eyes set on this one, the big one, the biggest one…in Colorado at least. We were spending the holiday weekend at Twin Lakes and went back and forth on the approach. Spoiler: we chose the more gradual ascent that required an off-road, high-clearance vehicle to the trailhead. Enter stage left: the trusty motorcycle.

Ok, in all fairness, the road was precarious at best, especially in the dark. We needed to start early, like 4am early to ensure we were safely below the treeline before any afternoon thunderstorms. The route was picturesque, but it can be hard to enjoy the view when one is struggling to breathe. Air is a bit thin above 10k.

The summit was busy, it was a beautiful morning. Some young college blokes from the Springs dragged up a griddle and were making summit pancakes. Yes, please! Even Leinie enjoyed some. BTW, tallest peak yet for our faithful trail doggo! He even celebrated with the highest altitude poo known to dog kind.

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The Places

Mount Elbert

Our faithful trail doggo leads his humans up the tallest peak in Colorado, Mt. Elbert.

Mount Sherman

Our tramily packed up the Yellow Submarine for some camping and hiking fun at altitude. Our goal: summit our first Colorado 14er, Mount Sherman.

Bergen Peak

Our band of heroes is back at it for bagging some six pack peaks. This time Adam is in tow as they tackle the OG six of the Colorado Rockies Six Pack of Peaks.

Piestewa Peak

Our handsome trail doggo has his eyes set on a winter six pack of peaks. The first, Piestowa Peak, doesn’t allow dogs so he lets his humans sweat it out.

Fremont Saddle

Our faithful trio turn their sights to the next peak. Hoping to lick some wounds and gain some confidence back.

The Flatiron

Our heroes get back into the swing of hiking to train for another thru-hike. Go big or go home some say.

Mt. Baldy

After a failed first attempt, our brave trail doggo leads his two humans back up to the hightest, baldest summit in LA country for high altitude gecko hunting.

El Cajon

The last peak of the San Diego challenge awaits. Considered the “toughest hike in San Diego County” does not daunt our fearless trail doggo…or does it?

Hot Springs Mountain

Leinie Trail Dog hits the second of his double peak weekend with the highest point in San Diego County. Will the tired legs be recovered enough for a second peak? Will the weather be kind or treacherous?

High Point - Palomar Mountain

Our fearless trail doggo gets a late start on a double peak weekend. The sun is hot, the trail long, is beer in the future?

Corte Madera

The double peak weekend continues with our fearless trail doggo taking on the “Half Dome of San Diego”, Corte Madera.

Cuyamaca Peak

Our fearless trail doggo heads out on a double peak weekend. First stop, Cuyamaca Peak for some happy hour summiting.

Volcan Mountain

It’s the new year, new six pack of peaks to complete for Leinie Trail Dog. He sets his sights on the San Diego list and starts the year strong with Volcan Mountain.

Mount San Jacinto

After our handsome trail doggo completed his six pack of peaks, his parents thoughtlessly leave him behind on an overnight bonus peak. He rides along in spirit while climbing to his cushion on the couch back at home.

Cucamunga Peak

Leinie Trail Dog is attempting the sixth peak to complete his six-pack. This challenging mountain promises a great payout with an overnight at the summit.

Ontario Peak

Feeling confident after completing the last challenge, Leinie Trail Dog sets out to knock two peaks for the price of one. He learns a valuable lesson that not all peaks like to play nice.

3-2-1 Challenge

Our handsome trail doggo takes on an additional challenge on his quest to complete the pack of peaks. Three peaks in two different counties all in one day. Will he be successful?

Mt. Baden-Powell

The scruffy trail doggo faces his next peak on the Six Pack of Peaks challenge, Mt. Baden-Powell. He faces never ending switchbacks and amazing views.

Sitton Peak

Trail doggo reminisces on the original peak bagging experience where many lessons were learned about mountains, deserts, and planning.

Mt. Wilson

Our trusty Trail Doggo continues his quest to summit the Six Pack of Peaks. Next up is the arduous journey up Mt. Wilson.

Strawberry Peak

Trail doggo begins his quest to complete the six packs of peaks. The first challenge is a peak named so for apparently appearing as its namesake’s fruit upside down.

2025Six Pack of PeaksColoradoCO Six

Sandra

Mount Elbert

More Pack of Peak posts

Colorado Trail: Segment 2

Pups. Pints. Peaks.