Latest News – July 10

Help Protect Mt Elbert: Colorado’s Tallest

Colorado’s highest peak at 14,443 feet, Mt. Elbert can see tens of thousands of hikers in a single summer! Photo: Leadville Today/Brennan Ruegg.

As one of the most visited fourteeners, Mount Elbert is also one of the most vulnerable. Mount Elbert’s three main summit routes can see tens of thousands of hikers in a single summer! But instead of feeling frustrated about what is happening to beloved Mt Elbert, help be part of the solution and volunteers for the South Mount Elbert Trail Construction project being coordinated by Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado (VOC). This project will address issues stemming from high-use, improving trail erosion and protecting the surrounding delicate alpine habitat.

The dates are at the end of this month on July 29 – 30, so there’s still time to plan. This will be an overnight experience and therefore volunteers are asked to participate in the entire duration of the project. Here’s what you need to know and who to contact.

The Volunteers of Colorado South Mount Elbert Trail Construction project is planned for July 29-30. Volunteers are needed: LINK.

About the Stewardship Site: 
Standing at 14,433 feet, Mount Elbert is Colorado’s tallest mountain and the apex of the Rocky Mountain Range. Elbert draws thousands of hikers, and the Mount Elbert Trail (also called the South Mount Elbert Trail), ascending the mountain’s east flank, is one of the most popular routes. It climbs through the San Isabel National Forest and across alpine tundra, crossing paths with the occasional marmot, pika or mountain goat before reaching the summit.

About the Volunteer Experience: 
Colorado’s 14,000-foot mountains – dubbed “fourteeners” – pay a price for their popularity, in the form of erosion and trail widening. On this moderately sized project of around 60 people, volunteers will reroute the lower 2 miles of the South Elbert Trail, constructing new tread along a more sustainable alignment. Work may also include alpine restoration, and the closing of “social trails,” which contribute to erosion. Tasks will be physically moderate to difficult and at high altitude, making this project perfect for adventurous and physically fit volunteers, comfortable working at intermediate-and-above skill levels. All food is provided!

Who To Contact: Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado at  303-715-1010, or email,  voc@voc.org or CLICK HERE to register – its FREE!