Quandary Peak - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

Quandary Peak is the highest summit of the Tenmile Range in the Rocky Mountains of North America. The prominent 14,265-foot (4,346 m) fourteener is located in San Isabel National Forest, 12.4 miles (20.0 km) south-southeast (bearing 124°) of the Town of Breckenridge in Summit County, Colorado, United States. Quandary Peak is notable for its proximity to large population centers and for its ease of ascent relative to other fourteeners; it is one of the busiest fourteeners in Colorado. The standard route by which Quandary Peak is climbed is a non-technical hike and suitable for active people with no mountaineering experience. Purchasing a climbing or hiking permit prior to summiting any of Colorado's fourteeners is required by the White River National Forest. There are several things to do once you reach the summit of Quandary Peak including but not limited to: take pictures at the top, look out onto the beautiful views, have a picnic lunch, sign the summit register, and enjoy some well deserved rest before heading back down. Hiking up and summiting Quandary Peak is sure to be a memorable experience that you'll want to come back and do time and time again.

Quandary Peak is the highest summit of the Mosquito Range in central Colorado. The popular fourteener is located in Summit County, about 10 miles south of Breckenridge. The peak gets its name from the fact that early explorers were unable to decide which of several nearby peaks was the highest. Quandary Peak was first climbed in 1864 by a group led by Edwin James, who was also the first person to summit Pikes Peak. Today, Quandary Peak is a popular destination for hikers and climbers, with an average of 500 summits each year. The east ridge route is the most popular way to reach the summit, and it typically takes 4-6 hours to complete the round trip. hikers are rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, including 14ers like Mount Democrat, Mount Lincoln, and Mount Bross.

The best time to visit Quandary Peak is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and there is less chance of snowfall. However, even during the summer, hikers should be prepared for cold temperatures and high winds at the summit. 

1. StartEarly: Quandary Peak is one of the busiest trails in Colorado, so it's important to start your hike early in the day to avoid the crowds.
2.  Stay On The Trail: It's important to stay on the trail in order to minimize your impact on the environment and to avoid getting lost.
3. Bring Plenty Of Water: Quandary Peak is a high altitude hike, so be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to avoid dehydration.
4. Plan For The Weather: Quandary Peak can be subject to extreme weather conditions, so be sure to check the forecast before you head out on your hike.
5. Avoid crowded areas: If you want to avoid the crowds, stick to less popular trails or hike during off-peak times (such as mid-week).
6. Have a map and compass with you. Quandary Peak is located in a remote area, so it's important to have a map and compass with you in case you get lost.
7. Make sure you're physically prepared. Quandary Peak is a strenuous hike, so be sure you're physically fit before attempting it. Otherwise, you may end up turning back prematurely or getting injured.
8. Pack a lunch and snacks. There are no food options at the trailhead or on the trail, so be sure to pack enough food for the entire day. Lunch and snacks will help you stay energized for the hike up and down Quandary Peak.

1. Quandary Peak is the highest summit of the Tenmile Range in the Rocky Mountains of North America. 
2. The standard hiking route fromeast ridge via Hoosier Ridge has a difficulty of Class 2+. 
3. Quandary Peak is one of only 53 fourteeners in Colorado that has a maintained trail to its summit. 
4. The peak lends its name to a nearby ghost town called Quandary, which was established as a silver mining camp during the 1870s rush to Colorado's mineral-rich high country but was soon abandoned when it failed to produce any silver ore. 
5. In winter, the peak is a popular destination for backcountry skiing and snowboarding.
6. The views from the summit are amazing! On a clear day, you can see all the way to Rocky Mountain National Park to the north and Pikes Peak to the south.
    

While it is possible to reach the summit in a few hours, most hikers take their time and enjoy the scenery along the way. The average time to complete the hike is between four and six hours. However, depending on conditions such as weather and trail conditions, it is always best to allow for extra time. 

The most popular route to the summit begins at the trailhead in South Park. From there, it is a 7-mile round trip hike with an elevation gain of approximately 3,700 feet. While there are some steep sections along the way, the trail is well-maintained and rated as moderate in difficulty. With stunning views of the surrounding Rockies, Quandary Peak is well worth the effort required to reach the summit.

No, there is no entrance fee to explore Quandary Peak. 

Quandary Peak is open year-round, but hours vary depending on the season. In the summer months, the peak is open from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM. However, in the winter months, the peak is open from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.