Rising over 13,000 feet on the Continental Divide, The Citadel stands as an invitation to explore Colorado’s high alpine, its twin summits visible from I-70 like a rugged statement above the timberline. While many glance up from the highway, the real adventure begins beyond the crowds, where the hustle of the approach melts into the quiet isolation of rock, wind, and sky.

The journey starts at the popular Herman Gulch Trailhead, just off exit 218. In the initial miles, you’ll share the trail with hikers and wildflower seekers, climbing steadily along a well-marked path that carves through forest and alpine meadow. The air thins, the trees give way, and as you approach timberline the human presence fades. From here, navigation shifts from established trail to wild terrain — a hands-on reminder that this is adventure in its purest form. The bushwhack toward The Citadel’s base signals the real start: cairns grow scarce, the path grows steep, and the mountain’s presence sharpens with each stride.

Reaching the base rewards your effort with true alpine solitude, far removed from the more accessible summits of the Front Range. The Citadel’s appeal is twofold: its dramatic position on the Divide and its classic double summits, divided by a sharp, wind-swept ridge. Most climbers will approach the standard route — a sustained Class 3 scramble — where blocks and slabs lead to airy exposure and wide, sweeping views of the high country. These are hands-on moves requiring careful footwork, but with proper caution and experience, the summit is well within reach for seasoned scramblers. The traverse from one summit to the other offers both a sense of accomplishment and a survey of ridgelines stretching toward Pettingell and beyond, a favorite extension for those who crave more challenging terrain.

For those looking to up the ante, The Citadel teases with potential. The North Ridge (rated 5.4) brings moderate but committing climbing, providing athletes a taste of alpine technicality without overwhelming difficulty. Alternatively, winter transforms the approach into a true mountaineering challenge — with deep snow, route-finding, and significant avalanche hazards. Prepared parties who time their window right can savor a snow climb that rivals any high alpine outing in the state.

Routefinding and preparation are crucial, especially as you move away from the main trail. The Citadel is not a designated wilderness area, but the further you push into its terrain, the more remote you become. Bring standard alpine protection for technical lines, and in early season or winter, be ready with ice axe, crampons, and avalanche knowledge. While the mountain is close to the Interstate, this is no roadside objective — rescue is far away, and cell coverage is unreliable.

The reward is pure: on a quiet summit day, you may share the wind only with mountain goats, gazing out to the Gore range, Grays and Torreys, and distant alpine valleys painted with light. In fall, the slopes blaze gold with aspen; in spring and early summer, the peaks linger under snow, guarding their secrets. Throughout the year, The Citadel promises not just a climb, but an experience that strips you back to the essentials — hands on rock, heart pounding, eyes scanning horizon to horizon.

Local favorites include the classic East Ridge and North Ridge routes. Each offers its own distinct challenge, but the feeling at the top is universal: a deep sense of accomplishment and wildness not far from the frenetic energy of the Front Range. Plan your journey with care, embrace the challenge, and The Citadel will deliver a high-altitude adventure that lingers long after you descend.