How do y'all, I'm new to the forum, but spent the last couple of years working on a pet project of a route I think you might enjoy. I call it the Cloud City Highline, just outside of Leadville, hence the name.
Linking 3 of the 5 tallest peaks in the state in under 24 hours, the CCH totals over 14,000ft of gain and descent, and spans over 30 miles. Start with an out-and-back approach to La Plata Peak, then drive down State Rte 82 about 4 miles for a southern approach to Mt. Elbert via the Black Cloud Trail and South Elbert Ridge. Follow the ridge all the way to the summit of Mt. Elbert, as an added bonus, you crossed over South Elbert's peak en route to the Elbert peak. From there, descend Elbert via the Northern ridge, link directly to the Mt. Massive trailhead for an out-and-back on your 3rd 14er of the day. Call a quits once you're back at Halfmoon Rd.
I was alone on the mountains, but this was a supported effort. Again, there is a total of about 4 miles driving in this link-up. It could be done on foot or by bike, I guess, but I don't believe there are any sidewalks on that stretch. The attempt took place on September 14, 2024, and recorded as one single event on my garmin watch for the sake of accurate (as possible) gpx data. The only discrepancy I can find between the data and the day of is the few miles of driving mentioned above. The total distance covered by foot was 30.93 miles, which I'm sure is editable, but I didn't want to touch it until I got the word out and hopefully hear back from the fkt folks.
Course for anyone who wants to download it to a garmin - https://connect.garmin.com/modern/course/310265083
stats from the successful first attempt - https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activ ... nique_id=4
Ain't much for taking pictures of myself, and I'm sure you've all seen these peaks once or twice before, but these are pictures from the day of in case they're needed for verification. https://www.14ers.com/forum/download/fi ... w&id=39257 https://www.14ers.com/forum/download/fi ... w&id=39258
Long story short, I personally disagree with anyone who claims staying in zone 2 is more beneficial to your training than targeting higher classes. I ran close to 1500 miles and walked another couple thousand in preparation for this last year, and firmly believe conditioning myself for essentially an uphill marathon played a huge factor in the success of the first attempt.
My total effort wrapped up just after 10pm on Sept 14, totaling 19:53:03
If anyone wants the .gpx or .fit file please feel free to reach out! I'll be lurking here, and can be reached at howtomoveamtn@gmail.com
Cloud City Highline - New Route (?)
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howtomoveamtn
- Posts: 1
- Joined: 9/27/2024
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Cloud City Highline - New Route (?)
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