challenging
4–8 hours
Participants should have strong cardiovascular endurance and leg strength to handle steep climbs and high altitude.
Climb Colorado’s majestic peaks with expert guides in Silverthorne. From challenging 14ers to quieter summits, this private tour offers breathtaking views and a safe, personalized adventure.
Reach the peak of Colorado, enjoy the breathtaking views!
Embark on a thrilling peak ascent with Colorado Adventure Guides, where you can conquer stunning 12,000 to 14,000-foot mountains while avoiding the crowds. Enjoy breathtaking views, beautiful wildflowers, and expert guidance in a safe, educational environment. Perfect for adventurers of all levels seeking unforgettable outdoor experiences in Summit County!
We are excited to offer Peak Ascents year-round and we have some amazing options to choose from! Peaks will drastically change from winter to summer, and our experienced team is here to steer you in the direction of the best peak to suit you and/or your group.
Challenge your mind and body with a climb to one of the highest points in the region. Every year thousands of people climb our 14,000' peaks, (locally known as "14'ers") but these trails can be busy or technical. Want to avoid the crowds, or not ready for the 14'er experience? Try climbing one of our lesser-known 13,000 foot or 12,000 foot mountains, which still provide challenging days, beautiful wildflowers, great views, and more solitude. Below are some of our more popular outings.
Please note, while online booking closes at 72 hours of start time, we may still be able to find a guide for you. Call to book to check!
This will be a full day hike and early start. Your meeting time will be determined by your guide based on the weather forecast on your ascent day.
Colorado Adventure Guides is permitted to operate in a variety of terrain in several counties, which allows us to access a variety of zones for courses. Typically we confirm our destinations about two weeks before the actual course to make sure we have the most appropriate terrain for the course. Some of our favorite peak ascents include:
While peak bagging 14'ers gives some bragging rights, escaping the crowds that flock to their summits is one of many reasons to seek out our local 12'ers and 13'ers. As the name says, Summit County is home to bountiful options when it comes to ascending peaks, and most of these options are between 12,000 and 14,000 feet. Choose from mountains such as Mt Royal, Mt Victoria, Peak 1, Lenawee Mountain, Santa Fe Peak, Buffalo Mountain, and the list goes on… All these peaks are accessible within a thirty minute drive from our office in Silverthorne. Hiring a guide will take away the stress of managing weather patterns, navigating a network of trails, and planning the logistics, all while keeping the fun factor numero uno!
Go Beyond the Resort! Colorado Adventure Guides (CAG) is a four season adventure and education guide service based in Silverthorne, Co. The largest AIARE avalanche safety educator and multi-season permit holder in our ranger district, CAG is permitted to operate also in six adjacent USFS and BLM districts. CAG serves a dynamic and growing population of Colorado outdoor enthusiasts. CAG’s all-season, guided operations include:
Colorado Adventure Guides has been providing incredible experiences to visitors of Summit County for over 25 years. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned expert, let us take you on your next unforgettable outdoor adventure!
The elevation in Silverthorne is 9,035 feet above sea level and most towns in Summit County share similar or higher elevations. When adjusting to altitude, the body needs to work a little harder. You might experience difficulty sleeping, difficulty catching your breath even during mild exertion, a racing heart rate, nausea, and a loss of appetite.
For our Peak Ascents we strongly recommend and encourage clients to spend around 3 days in Summit County or similar elevations prior to attempting one of our higher peaks.
Altitude affects people differently, and can affect the same person differently on separate occasions. If you deal with chronic pulmonary, cardiac, or other health issues like asthma, COPD, diabetes, CHF or if you are pregnant you should consult your doctor before your activity. Our guides are trained to recognize altitude sickness symptoms in the field and reserve the right to end the trip at any time.
Your guide/instructors work hard before, during, and after your course to provide you with a great experience, and while not expected, gratuities are always highly appreciated. If you had a safe, educational, and fun experience, gratuities typically range from 15-20%.
We typically accept participants 12 years or older, if they are accompanied by a legal guardian. You must be 18 years or older to attend a trip on your own.
Colorado Adventure Guides priority is keeping our patrons and students safe. Our guides and instructors are trained to recognize potentially hazardous situations in the backcountry; they plan and operate accordingly. Prior to the start of any course or backcountry trip you will be asked to complete a brief health history. The failure to disclose pertinent information on the health history form could result in serious harm, even death, to the signing participant, other guests and/or the guide. All information submitted is completely confidential; it is for the guide’s use and would only be shared in the event of an emergency with medical and/or rescue personnel directly caring for the guest. Your ability to enjoy the adventure depends on your health and fitness, thus it’s recommended that you are in good physical condition.
Your guide or instructor will contact you prior to your activity start date to finalize details regarding meeting location and time.
Mountain weather changes quickly; begin your ascent early in the day for safer and clearer conditions.
Bring plenty of water and sip regularly to combat altitude dehydration during the climb.
Temperatures can vary widely; dressing in layers helps you stay comfortable throughout the hike.
Poles aid balance and reduce strain on knees, especially on steep or rocky sections.
Silverthorne sits near historic mining routes that played a crucial role in Colorado’s development during the late 19th century.
Colorado Adventure Guides promote Leave No Trace principles to preserve the fragile alpine ecosystem and minimize environmental impact.
Provides ankle support and traction on rocky or uneven terrain.
Allows easy adjustment to changing temperatures and weather conditions.
Keeps you well-hydrated to prevent altitude-related dehydration.
Protects against strong UV rays at high elevations.
spring specific