- …
- Yak
- Quests
- Colorado 14ers
- North Maroon Peak
14,022 ft · Elk Mountains, Colorado
North Maroon Peak
North Maroon Peak is a 14,022 ft peak in the Elk Mountains, Colorado. The standard route is the Northeast Ridge: 9 mi, 4,600 ft of gain, Class 4.
North Maroon Peak at a glance
- Elevation14,022 ft4,273 m
- RouteNortheast RidgeClass 4
- Distance9 mi4,600 ft gain
- Time8 – 12 hrsVery Hard effort
- SeasonJul – Sep
- RangeElk MountainsColorado
Climbing the Northeast Ridge
From Aspen, Colorado, drive to the Maroon Lake area (Maroon Bells reservation required in summer). The approach via Maroon Creek is shared with Maroon Peak. North Maroon is generally considered more difficult than its southern neighbor with extremely loose, exposed terrain and challenging route-finding. Careful navigation through the rotten rock is critical. Helmets are absolutely essential. Many parties have had serious accidents on this peak. Start very early (2-3am) to avoid afternoon storms. Only for experienced climbers comfortable with serious exposure and poor rock quality. One of Colorado's most dangerous 14ers.
Gear and hazards
What to bring
Backpack (25–35 L)
Water
Offline Maps
Headlamp
Satellite Communicator
Helmet
Rope
Harness
Carabiners
Belay Device
Whistle
Hiking Boots
Midlayer
Insulated Jacket
Hardshell Jacket
Sun Hat
Warm Hat
Buff
Midweight Gloves
Trekking Poles
GPS Device
Power Bank
Water Filter
First-Aid Kit
Emergency Bivy
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
What to watch for
- Loose rock
- Steep exposure
- Snow near summit
- Ice near summit
- Storms
- Low visibility
- High altitude
- Altitude sickness
- Rockfall
- Route-finding difficulty
North Maroon Peak on Yak
Climbers have shared 5 climbs of North Maroon Peak on Yak. Read their trip reports and recent conditions in the app
Quests with North Maroon Peak
Colorado 14ers
Lower 48 14ers
Colorado CentennialsPeaks near North Maroon Peak
Frequently asked questions
How tall is North Maroon Peak?
North Maroon Peak is 14,022 feet (4,273 m) tall. It is in the Elk Mountains, Colorado.
How does North Maroon Peak rank among the Colorado 14ers?
At 14,022 feet, North Maroon Peak is the 52nd highest of the 58 Colorado 14ers. The highest is Mount Elbert.
How hard is it to climb North Maroon Peak?
The Northeast Ridge is Class 4, which means exposed scrambling, where many parties bring a rope. Yak rates the overall effort very hard: 9 miles with 4,600 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to climb North Maroon Peak?
Most people take 8 – 12 hours round trip on the Northeast Ridge, covering 9 miles with 4,600 feet of elevation gain. That is a long day, so start before dawn and set a turnaround time.
Is North Maroon Peak dangerous to climb?
It has real risks: exposed sections where a fall would be serious, rockfall from loose rock and fast-changing weather. Go with an experienced partner, wear a helmet, test holds before you trust them and turn back if the rock is wet or icy.
Do you need a rope to climb North Maroon Peak?
Most parties bring one. The Northeast Ridge is Class 4, and the gear list includes a rope, harness and belay device.
Will you get altitude sickness on North Maroon Peak?
You might. Most people feel the altitude above 8,000 feet, and North Maroon Peak reaches 14,022 feet. Spend a night or two at elevation first, drink plenty of water and turn back if a headache, nausea or dizziness gets worse.
What time should you start climbing North Maroon Peak?
Early. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, so aim to be off the summit and the exposed upper mountain by early afternoon. At 8 – 12 hours round trip, many parties start in the dark.
When is the best time to climb North Maroon Peak?
The usual climbing window is July to September. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.
What is the trailhead elevation for North Maroon Peak?
The Northeast Ridge starts at about 9,560 feet, roughly 4,462 feet below the summit.
What routes go up North Maroon Peak?
The standard route is the Northeast Ridge. Other routes include the Combo: Bells Traverse and the North Maroon, Maroon, and Pyramid Peak Loop.
Climb North Maroon Peak with Yak
Plan your route on a topo map, check the summit forecast, then log your climb and see what is left on your list