Three fourteeners tower over Maroon Lake, all difficult peaks that deserve your respect. Climbing Pyramid Peak has the deadly distinction of being the most dangerous climb of all three; it features an intimidating class 4 route with loose rock and nasty exposure that requires expert route-finding skills. Take plenty of time to research this route well so you can find your way up the exposed northeast ridge. Get started on your preparation for climbing Pyramid Peak with my complete route guide below for free.
New to 14ers? Get ready for your first climb with my beginner’s guide here.
Climbing Pyramid Peak | Fast Facts
- Standard Route: Northeast Ridge
- Trailhead: Maroon Lake
- Elevation Gain: 4,500 feet
- Round-Trip Distance: 8.5 Miles
- Difficulty Level: Class 4 Climb
- Range: Elk Mountains
14ers Are Dangerous: Safety is Your Responsibility
These awe-inspiring peaks can be unpredictable and dangerous. Help is often hours or days away: your safety is primarily your responsibility. Carefully prepare for your trek, understand your limits, be aware of the risks, and equip yourself with the necessary skills and gear.
We’ve compiled a comprehensive Mountain Safety Guide – but remember, it’s only as effective as its real-world application. Always prioritize your safety over summiting; the mountain isn’t going anywhere. Climb smart, be prepared, and respect the grandeur of nature.
Climbing Pyramid Peak - Route Guide
For the best route description available, I recommend visiting 14ers.com, which has a fantastic guide for climbing Pyramid Peak.
Let my topographical map of the Pyramid Peak Route guide you on your way. It’s perfect for your trip. Download it on your phone and print out a paper copy so that you have a spare just in case anything goes wrong while you are climbing Pyramid Peak.
Besides researching with my Pyramid Peak route guide, you should research the weather conditions before climbing Pyramid Peak so you can pack and prepare properly. Here are several dependable weather sources to get started with on your research.
Mountain Forecast Pyramid Peak – Click Here
NOAA Weather Forecast Pyramid Peak – Click Here
Climbing Pyramid Peak is an inherently high-risk activity – do so at your own risk, and use the following best practices to help keep yourself safe. Good Luck!
- Research your route using my Pyramid Peak route guide and bring a compass & topographic map.
- Check the weather forecast and stay home during inclement weather.
- Bring the Ten Essentials and the knowledge/skill to use them.
- Leave your plans with someone back home along with a detailed itinerary.
- Start early, and end early: Be back at tree line by noon to avoid lightning.
- Bring a buddy on your first ascent, preferably someone experienced.
NEW TO 14ERS? CHECK OUT MY BEGINNERS GUIDE FOR A SAFE FIRST SUMMIT!
Climbing Pyramid Peak is an objectively dangerous activity. There is a significant risk of injury or death, even with proper planning and experience. Those using my Pyramid Peak route guide accept all risks associated with climbing 14ers and do not hold this website or any information they obtain from it liable for any accidents or injuries that occur while engaging in these activities on Colorado’s high peaks. It is each hiker or climber’s responsibility to research their route carefully, bring the ten essentials, and practice other safe practices, though even these precautions do not eliminate risk and danger. Visit these summits at your own risk.
