Mount Harvard is the third-highest peak in Colorado at 14,421 feet and the highest peak in the Collegiate Peaks. It's a long, scenic class 2 hike through Horn Fork Basin — one of the most beautiful approaches in the Sawatch.
Standard Route
The standard route starts at the North Cottonwood Trailhead northwest of Buena Vista. The trail follows Horn Fork Creek through aspen meadows and willow flats for several miles before opening into the upper basin. The final mile is class 2 talus to a defined summit. Total: 14 miles round trip, 4,600 feet of gain.
What to Expect
Horn Fork Basin is one of the most photogenic 14er approaches — keep your camera accessible. The summit block has some loose rock; place your feet carefully. Many climbers combine Harvard with Mount Columbia via the connecting ridge, but the ridge traverse is loose and time-consuming.
Related Reading
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