Kit Carson Peak

There are a few different ways to summit this beautiful 14er 10 minutes from the town of Crestone. I did the standard route from Challenger. I hiked from the parking lot up to Willow lake, up to challenger and then made my way. You'll do a bit of ridge walking and descend 100-200 ft to a clearing and the along kit Carson avenue. It's hard to miss and the trail is defined but make sure you stay on trail because a fall could be fatal. I actually diverged slightly from the traditional trail and took a short cut up "the crack" just after kit Carson avenue. They're both class 3, but this way is more fun and avoids scree. From there, it's an easy summit! Not much scrambling required and you'll be rewarded with stunning views of the crestones, humbolt peak and mount Adam's, as well as company from friendly marmots! To descend the standard route, go back to challenger and down the way you came. Round trip in one push from the parking lot for both peaks was 16 miles and over 7K elevation with class 3 scrambling and exposure. It was a beautiful and amazing adventure. I'd recommend this hike but be comfortable with the skills required.