Hiking one of Colorado's fiftysome fourteeners is certainly no easy task. Rather, it's a challenge that takes preparation, skill, and hiking experience. If you're up for the challenge and find yourself looking for adventure while in Breckenridge, look no farther than Quandary Peak, the 14,265 foot peak that promises both challenge and reward. Located just south of Breckenridge, Quandary is the highest peak in the Tenmile Range and the fourteenth highest of Colorado fourteeners.
Getting There: For the East Ridge trailhead, travel south on Hwy. 9 about 7.5 miles from the last Breckenridge traffic light. Turn right on Blue Lakes Road, and then take another right on No. 851. You'll find the trailhead in just about a mile, but you'll have to park parallel to the road as there is no parking lot for hikers.
The Trail: Like many of Colorado's fourteeners, there are different routes you can take to summit Quandary depending on your skill level. If you're a beginner, the East Ridge is your best bet, offering broad slopes that aren't quite as dramatic as other routes. The West Ridge, conversely, offers a more complex and challenging class three route. For the most intense adventure seekers, Quandary's north face is most difficult and will require hikers to climb or scramble through challenging terrain to reach the top. Once you reach the summit, however, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of Mt. Lincoln and Mt. Bross to the south and Mt. Grays and Mt. Torreys to the northeast. In addition, stellar views of the Blue Lakes at the base of Quandary are afforded from the summit.
Logistics: Give yourself a full day (about eight hours) to bag this fourteener and be sure to prepare yourself for an intense challenge.
Start early in the morning to allow enough time to summit the peak before the threat of afternoon showers approach. The last place you'll want to be in a mountain thunderstorm is on an exposed, highly elevated peak. Most importantly, keep an eye on the weather. If dark clouds begin to approach, seek shelter or quickly get down the mountain and save this hike for another day. Gear up with proper clothing and supplies. While you don't want to load yourself down with heavy supplies, it's a good idea to carry a lightweight pack that contains a dry layer of clothing and even a rain jacket. Avoid wearing cotton as sweat or water will stick to your body rather than drying quickly. Instead, choose clothing made of quick-drying, wicking materials. Also consider packing an extra pair of wool socks, a basic first-aid kit including band-aids or moleskin in case of blisters, sunscreen, a flashlight, and plenty of water. Quick-energy and sugar foods are also good to have on hand, such as nuts, fruit, and power bars. And, of course, don't forget your camera. Be smart and always listen to your body. Hiking a fourteener is not an event to approach lightly, especially if you're out of shape. Practice first by hiking at smaller elevation gains in order to not only prepare yourself physically, but to get in tune with your body. While hiking a fourteener does require you to pay attention to time, don't be afraid to take frequent breaks and rest if you feel dizzy or lightheaded. Additionally, hiking 14,000 feet means you're venturing into higher altitudes with less oxygen. Prepare ahead of time by drinking more water, and never attempt this high of an elevation gain if you're travelling directly from sea level. Give yourself a couple of days to acclimate to the thin mountain air.
The view from atop Quandary Peak gives a whole new meaning to the wonder of Breckenridge. Viewing the town from more than 14,000 feet will truly make you feel like you are on top of the world. If you're up for the adventure, Quandary will certainly show you the challenge.
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