Quandary Peak Winter Hike – My First Colorado 14er

As part of my goal to climb all 58 Colorado 14ers, I kicked things off with a winter hike to Quandary Peak. This was my first time summiting a 14er in the winter, and the experience was unforgettable — from breathtaking views to chance encounters with fellow hikers, it was the perfect way to begin this adventure.

And honestly? I couldn’t help but think what an incredible backdrop this would make for an adventure elopement in Colorado — snowy ridgelines, quiet forests, and golden light breaking across the peaks.

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Early Start to Quandary Peak Trailhead

The day began early. I woke up around 5:00 a.m., packed my gear, and hit the road by 5:30. I arrived at the Quandary Peak trailhead around 7:30 a.m., ready to go.

One perk of hiking here in the winter: no parking reservations are required, unlike during the busy summer season. The trailhead was simple to access, and the climb started right away.

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Conditions on My Quandary Peak Winter Hike

The snow was compact enough that I didn’t need snowshoes, even though I brought them. Microspikes were perfect for traction, and the hike up felt steady and safe.

It took me about four hours to summit and 5.5–6 hours total for the round trip, including breaks to hydrate, snack, and photograph the views.

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Reaching the Summit of Quandary Peak

At 14,265 feet, Quandary Peak delivered everything I’d hoped for. The summit was calm, with almost no wind — rare for a 14er, especially in winter. The panoramic views stretched for miles, and for a few minutes, I felt like I had the whole mountain to myself.

Along the way, I met a traveler from Wisconsin hiking his very first 14er. Watching him push through altitude struggles reminded me that these climbs mean something different to everyone. I even saw a few skiers and snowboarders carving down the mountain — another reminder that Colorado is full of adventurous spirits.

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Reflections on My Quandary Peak Hike

This Quandary Peak winter hike was the perfect introduction to my 14er journey. The accessibility, steady trail, and sweeping summit views make it one of the best starter 14ers in Colorado.

And beyond hiking, this day made me think about the couples I’ve photographed in places like Garden of the Gods. When you choose Colorado for your wedding or elopement, it’s not just about photos — it’s about experiencing the landscapes, the adventure, and the feeling of being on top of the world.

If you’re planning something special, my Colorado Elopement Guide is a great place to start, or explore my Destination Elopement Photography page to dream even bigger.

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Related Adventures

Want more stories and inspiration from Colorado’s peaks?

• Mount Bierstadt Hike – My 2nd 14er, complete with a scratched lens story

• Mount Elbert Hike – Colorado’s tallest mountain at 14,440 feet

For trail details and conditions, check out 14ers.com’s Quandary Peak guide.

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📩 Inquire About Your Colorado Elopement Here

Whether it’s a snowy mountain summit, a lakeside picnic, or the red rocks of Garden of the Gods, I’d be honored to capture your story in Colorado’s wild places. Reach out here to start planning your adventure.