Mt. Sherman
14,043 feet
The easiest 14er by elevation gain - perfect confidence builder
Why Mt. Sherman?
Mt. Sherman is famous for having the lowest elevation gain of any Colorado 14er. At just 2,100 feet of gain over 5.25 miles, this peak is an ideal confidence builder for beginners. The trail follows an old mining road up gentle slopes to 14,043 feet, passing historic mining ruins along the way. While the access road is rough and requires high clearance, the hike itself is one of the easiest in the state. The combination of low elevation gain, short distance, and straightforward terrain makes Mt. Sherman perfect for testing your abilities before tackling longer or more technical peaks.
Getting to the Trailhead
Mount Sherman Trailhead
- Trailhead Elevation:
- 11,950 feet
- From Denver:
- 115 miles (2 hours 30 minutes)
Directions
From Denver, take US-285 South to Fairplay. Turn west on CR 18 toward Leavick. After 6 miles, turn right at fork onto rough 4WD road. Follow for 4 miles to trailhead. High clearance and 4WD strongly recommended for final miles.
Road Access
Final 4 miles are very rough with deep ruts and rocky sections. High clearance SUV is the minimum requirement. 4WD is strongly preferred. Standard cars should park lower and add 4 miles round trip hiking.
Parking Information
- There is a small dirt parking area near old mine ruins. The lot can accommodate 10-15 vehicles. Dispersed camping is available.
- Capacity: 10-15 vehicles
- No fees required
Pro Tip: Less crowded than popular peaks. Arrival by 6:30 AM to 7:00 AM is sufficient on most days.
The Route
Mt. Sherman via Southwest Ridge
Class 1
This is a straightforward out-and-back route that follows old mining roads and trails with very gradual grades. The route is well-defined and easy to follow. You will gain just 2,100 feet over approximately 2.6 miles to the summit, making this the gentlest 14er climb in Colorado.
Hike past old mining ruins and equipment. Clear trail through sparse vegetation. Historical mining relics visible. Gradual uphill on old mining road. The mining history adds interest to this gentle start.
Steeper section up to ridgeline. Rocky trail with good footing. Views begin to open up. Less vegetation at higher elevation. Well-marked route. This is the steepest section but still very manageable.
Gentle ridge walk to summit. Easiest summit approach of any 14er. Wide trail with minimal exposure. Final push to 14,043 feet is gradual. Summit has old mining structures. The incredibly gentle grade makes this section feel easy despite the altitude.
The summit of Mt. Sherman offers views of the Mosquito Range and surrounding peaks. Old mining structures dot the summit area, providing interesting historical context. The summit is relatively flat and not as exposed as many 14ers. Sign the register and celebrate conquering the easiest elevation gain of any Colorado 14er.
Descent
Retrace steps down. Fast descent on gentle grades. Watch footing on loose rock sections. Enjoy views of Mosquito Range. Plan on about 1.5 to 2 hours descending.
What's Special About Mt. Sherman?
Lowest Elevation Gain
At just 2,100 feet of gain, this is literally the easiest 14er by elevation gain. Your legs and lungs will thank you.
Short Distance
Only 5.25 miles round trip makes this one of the shortest 14er hikes. You can complete this in 4-6 hours total.
Gentle Slopes
The grade is very manageable throughout. The final ridge walk is one of the gentlest summit approaches in Colorado.
High Starting Elevation
Starting at 11,950 feet means less climbing. You are already well above treeline when you start.
Clear Route
The trail follows old mining roads and is easy to follow. Mining ruins serve as landmarks along the way.
When to Go
Best Time of Year
July through early September
These months offer the safest conditions for beginners with minimal snow coverage and the most predictable weather patterns. Mid-July to mid-August is peak season with the best trail conditions.
Caution: Attempting this peak in June or late September significantly increases difficulty due to snow conditions. Winter attempts require mountaineering skills.
Time of Day
With shorter distance and lower elevation gain, you can start slightly later than other peaks. Still aim to be off summit before noon.
Sunrise Bonus: The gentle terrain means you can enjoy the sunrise from the trail without worrying about difficult navigation in the dark.
Weather Considerations
Colorado mountain weather is unpredictable. While Sherman is less exposed than many peaks, you are still above treeline for most of the hike. Afternoon thunderstorms with lightning remain a danger. Be off the summit by noon.
Pro Tips
Perfect Confidence Builder
Many hikers choose Sherman as their first 14er to test their altitude tolerance and fitness before attempting longer peaks. The low elevation gain and short distance make success very achievable.
Road Access Challenge
The hardest part of Sherman is often the access road, not the hike itself. If you have a standard car, park lower and add the 4 miles of road walking. Some hikers say the road is the real workout.
Mining History
Take time to appreciate the mining ruins along the route. This area was heavily mined in the late 1800s. The summit mining structures are fascinating relics of Colorado history.
Related Peaks
Quandary Peak
Nearby Class 1 peak with similar accessibility
Quandary Peak at 14,271 feet is another excellent beginner choice. Slightly more elevation gain but still very approachable.
Learn MoreGrays Peak
Another gentle Class 1 option
Grays Peak at 14,278 feet offers similar Class 1 terrain with more elevation gain. Great next step after Sherman.
Learn MoreAdditional Resources
AllTrails - Mount Sherman Trail
Trail map, photos, and recent reviews from other hikers
14ers.com - Mount Sherman
Detailed route description and trip reports
Colorado Avalanche Information Center
Winter conditions and avalanche forecasts (if attempting off-season)
Mountain Weather Forecast
Hour-by-hour summit forecast
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