Mount Sherman
14,043 feet
A short, gentle Class 1 climb that makes a perfect confidence builder
Why Mount Sherman?
Mount Sherman has the lowest elevation gain of any Class 1 standard route on 14ers.com. At just 2,100 feet of gain over 5.25 miles from the gate at 12,000 feet, 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. The access road gets rough near the end, but the hike itself is one of the easiest in the state. The combination of low elevation gain, short distance, and straightforward terrain makes Mount Sherman perfect for testing your abilities before tackling longer or more technical peaks.
Getting to the Trailhead
Fourmile Creek Trailhead
- Trailhead Elevation:
- 12,000 feet
- From Denver:
- About 95 miles (about 2.5 hours)
Directions
From Denver, take US 285 South to Fairplay. From Fairplay, drive just over 1 mile south on US 285 and turn right onto County Road 18. Drive 10 miles to the old Leavick site, then continue about 2 more miles to the trailhead at a gate with a small parking area.
Road Access
County Road 18 is a rough dirt road that gets rockier as you approach the gate. Most high-clearance vehicles can reach the trailhead, but the upper road may require four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive in early summer. In winter, the road is closed near 11,100 feet, which adds about 5 miles and 1,000 feet of gain to the round trip.
Parking Information
- There is a small parking area at the gate, with more pull-offs lower on the road. There are no restrooms. Two campgrounds sit farther down the road.
- Capacity: About 10 vehicles at the gate, plus pull-offs along the road
- There is no parking fee at this trailhead.
Pro Tip: The small gate lot can fill before 5:30 a.m. on summer weekends. If it is full, park in a pull-off lower on the road and be ready to walk extra distance.
The Route
Mount 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 one of the gentlest 14er climbs in Colorado.
You will hike past old mining ruins and equipment on a clear trail through sparse vegetation. The route climbs gradually on an old mining road. The mining history adds interest to this gentle start.
The trail steepens on the way up to the ridgeline. The rocky trail still offers good footing, and the views begin to open up as the vegetation thins. The route is well-marked. This is the steepest section, but it is still very manageable.
A gentle ridge walk leads to the summit. The trail is wide with minimal exposure, and the final push to 14,043 feet is gradual. Old mining structures sit near the top. The gentle grade makes this section feel easier than you might expect at this altitude.
The summit of Mount 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 finishing one of the gentlest 14er climbs in Colorado.
Descent
Retrace your steps down. The gentle grades make for a fast descent, but watch your footing on loose rock. Enjoy the views of the Mosquito Range. Plan on about 1.5 to 2 hours for the descent.
What's Special About Mount Sherman?
Low Elevation Gain
At just 2,100 feet of gain, Sherman has the lowest elevation gain of any Class 1 standard route on 14ers.com. Your legs and lungs will thank you.
Short Distance
At only 5.25 miles round trip, this is one of the shorter 14er hikes. You can complete it in 4 to 6 hours.
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 12,000 feet means less climbing. You are already 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 a shorter distance and lower elevation gain, you can start slightly later than on other peaks. Still aim to be off the 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 the entire 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 your car struggles on the upper road, park in a lower pull-off and add the road walking to your day.
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
Quandary Peak at 14,272 feet is another excellent beginner choice. It has more elevation gain but is still very approachable.
Learn MoreGrays Peak
Another gentle Class 1 option
Grays Peak at 14,275 feet offers similar Class 1 terrain with more elevation gain. It is a great next step after Sherman.
Learn MoreAdditional Resources
AllTrails: Mount Sherman Trail
See the trail map, photos, and recent reviews from other hikers.
14ers.com: Mount Sherman
Read the detailed route description and trip reports.
Colorado Avalanche Information Center
Check winter conditions and avalanche forecasts if you plan an off-season attempt.
Mountain Weather Forecast
Check the hour-by-hour summit forecast.
Ready to Summit Mount Sherman?
Prepare for your summit with our 13-week training program.