The Collegiate Peaks, located in Buena Vista, Colorado, are a group of fourteen 14,000-foot peaks that are part of the Sawatch Range in the Rocky Mountains. The peaks are named after prestigious colleges and universities such as Harvard, Yale, and Princeton. The highest peak in the group is Mount Harvard, which stands at 14,420 feet. The Collegiate Peaks are popular among hikers, mountaineers, and backcountry skiers. The area is also home to the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness, which offers over 168,000 acres of wilderness for visitors to explore. The peaks offer stunning views of the surrounding mountain ranges and valleys, making them a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
In addition to the peaks themselves, the Collegiate Peaks area offers a variety of recreational opportunities. The Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area, which runs along the Arkansas River, offers rafting, kayaking, and fishing. The area is also home to several campgrounds, including the Mount Harvard Campground, which is located at the base of Mount Harvard and offers stunning views of the peak.
The Collegiate Peaks are also a popular destination for backcountry skiing and snowboarding. The peaks offer a variety of challenging terrain for experienced skiers, as well as more moderate slopes for beginners. The area is also home to several backcountry huts, which provide a convenient base for skiers and snowboarders looking to explore the area.
The area is also home to the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail, which runs for 3,100 miles from Canada to Mexico, passing through the Collegiate Peaks. The trail offers hikers and backpackers the opportunity to explore the wilderness and experience the beauty of the Rocky Mountains.
Overall, the Collegiate Peaks offer a diverse range of recreational opportunities, from hiking and climbing to skiing and rafting, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all skill levels.