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    Mount Harvard and Mount Colombia Loop Trail

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Very Hard
    Duration
    This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
    9.5-13.5h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    26.2 km
    Elevation
    This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
    1,811 m
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
    Be the first to add a review!
    Directions to Trailhead

    The Mount Harvard and Mount Colombia Loop Trail is an extremely demanding adventure through the Sawatch Mountain Range. Ascend not one but two Colorado 14ers in the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness and revel in the sweeping mountain vistas that line the horizon.

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    Route Description for Mount Harvard and Mount Colombia Loop Trail

    The Mount Harvard and Mount Colombia Loop Trail is arguably the most picturesque adventure in the Sawatch Mountain Range. This incredible hike, though scenic, is also one of the most technical hikes! Ascending over 1,500 m in elevation and over 25.0 km, this trek demands stamina. Additionally, the section of the journey from peak to peak lacks an explicit trail, instead, there is a technical, barely worn oath that warrants scrambling and bouldering up to the summit, so be prepared and wear sturdy footwear. Reserved for experienced hikers, don’t forget to summit before noon to avoid getting caught in a dangerous afternoon storm.

    Once packed and prepared, begin your journey along the Mount Harvard and Mount Colombia Loop Trail. From here, hike west along the Horn Fork Basin Trail. At the first intersection, keep left and at the following, keep right. Now climbing up the Mount Colombia West Slopes Trail, mind your footing on the vertiginous terrain. Navigate the switchbacks up to the summit of Mount Colombia, your first summit. Following your summit, track the saddle northwest along the Harvard Columbia Scramble Trail.

    Scramble up the talus to the summit of Mount Harvard and revel in the sweeping alpine views. From here, take the Mount Harvard South Slopes Trail down the mountain. Soon this trail will merge onto the Horn Fork Basin Trail, which you will follow all the way back to the trailhead.

    Getting to the Mount Harvard and Mount Colombia Loop Trail Trailhead

    The Mount Harvard and Mount Colombia Loop Trail departs from the Horn Fork Basin Trailhead off County Road 365.

    Route Information

    • Backcountry Campground

      Dispersed Backcountry Camping

    • When to do

      July-September

    • Pets allowed

      Yes - On Leash

    • Family friendly

      No

    • Route Signage

      Average

    • Crowd Levels

      Moderate

    • Route Type

      Lollipop

    Mount Harvard and Mount Colombia Loop Trail Elevation Graph

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    Mount Harvard and Mount Colombia Loop Trail Reviews

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