Pyramid Peak

14,025 ft · #49 highest in Colorado · Elk Range

Class 4 — exposed scramble8.25 mi round trip4,500 ft gain

Elevation

14,025′

Difficulty

Class 4

Distance

8.25 mi

Elev. gain

4,500′

Nearest town

Aspen

County

Pitkin

Range

Elk

Rank

#49

Pyramid Peak is the third of the Elk Range's notorious trio (Maroon, North Maroon, Pyramid) and arguably the most consistently exposed. The standard Northeast Ridge route involves sustained class 4 scrambling on loose rock for the final 1,500 feet.

Standard Route

From the Maroon Lake area (shuttle/permit), the trail climbs through dense forest into Pyramid's bowl before ascending the northeast ridge. The summit pitch is the most exposed section, with dozens of small class 4 moves on rotten rock. 8.25 miles round trip.

What to Expect

Pyramid kills people regularly. Wear a helmet, don't climb in wet weather, and turn back if route-finding becomes unclear. The 'easier' chocolate bar pitch is well-marked but still demands attention.