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- Thunder Pyramid
13,944 ft · Elk Mountains, Colorado
Thunder Pyramid
Thunder Pyramid is a 13,944 ft peak in the Elk Mountains, Colorado. The standard route is the South Ridge: 11 mi, 4,660 ft of gain, Class 3.
Thunder Pyramid at a glance
- Elevation13,944 ft4,250 m
- RouteSouth RidgeClass 3
- Distance11 mi4,660 ft gain
- Time10 – 12 hrsVery Hard effort
- SeasonJul – Sep
- RangeElk MountainsColorado
Climbing the South Ridge
From Aspen, take Maroon Creek Road to Maroon Lake; in summer a Maroon Bells reservation is required for parking or the shuttle. Hike past Crater Lake toward West Maroon Pass, then leave the trail and climb steep, trailless slopes and gullies on the east side to reach the south ridge. The upper mountain is Class 3 on notoriously loose Elk Mountains rock with serious rockfall danger, so helmets are essential and parties should stay close together. Start very early for storms. Expect crowds at Maroon Lake.
Gear and hazards
What to bring
Backpack (35–55 L)
Hiking Boots
Water
Offline Maps
Headlamp
Satellite Communicator
Whistle
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Sun Hat
Midlayer
Insulated Jacket
Hardshell Jacket
Warm Hat
Buff
Midweight Gloves
Trekking Poles
GPS Device
Power Bank
Water Filter
First-Aid Kit
Emergency Bivy
Helmet
What to watch for
- Loose rock
- Rockfall
- Steep exposure
- Route-finding difficulty
- Storms
Quests with Thunder Pyramid
Colorado Centennials
Colorado 13ersPeaks near Thunder Pyramid
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Thunder Pyramid?
Thunder Pyramid is 13,944 feet (4,250 m) tall. It is in the Elk Mountains, Colorado.
How does Thunder Pyramid rank among the Colorado Centennials?
At 13,944 feet, Thunder Pyramid is the 61st highest of the 100 Colorado Centennials. The highest is Mount Elbert.
How hard is it to climb Thunder Pyramid?
The South Ridge is Class 3, which means scrambling, where you use your hands to climb and a fall could be serious. Yak rates the overall effort very hard: 11 miles with 4,660 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to climb Thunder Pyramid?
Most people take 10 – 12 hours round trip on the South Ridge, covering 11 miles with 4,660 feet of elevation gain. That is a long day, so start before dawn and set a turnaround time.
Is Thunder Pyramid 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 helmet for Thunder Pyramid?
It is a good idea. Loose rock and rockfall are common on the South Ridge, so a helmet is on the gear list.
Will you get altitude sickness on Thunder Pyramid?
You might. Most people feel the altitude above 8,000 feet, and Thunder Pyramid reaches 13,944 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 Thunder Pyramid?
Early. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, so aim to be off the summit and the exposed upper mountain by early afternoon. At 10 – 12 hours round trip, many parties start in the dark.
When is the best time to climb Thunder Pyramid?
The usual climbing window is July to September. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.
Climb Thunder Pyramid 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