Best Summit Hikes in Colorado: An Opinionated Guide to 50+ Ascents of Classic and Little-Known Peaks from 8,144 to 14,433 feet

by James Dziezynski

Author James Dziezynski has meticulously selected 80+ of the state’s absolute best peaks in more than 50 superlative hikes, and his opinionated narrative brings each route to life. Each summit is included because of a notable feature—whether it’s the site of a ghost mine or airplane wreckage, has thundering waterfalls or colorful floral meadows, is the best summit for spotting wildlife or bringing out-of-town friends, or is very accessible. Covering all Colorado’s major mountain ranges, including the well-known Sangre De Cristo, Gore, Sawatch, Indian Peaks, and Maroon Bell wilderness areas to the lesser-known Grenadiers, Medicine Bow, and Outer San Juan peaks, this distinctive guide makes it easy to select exactly the right hike for the right day, the right mood, and the right companions.

Genres: Nonfiction, Reference

339 pages, Paperback

First published June 15, 2007

About the author

After earning degrees in Philosophy and Literature from Marist College in Poughkeepsie, NY, James attended the highly respected National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) to further his outdoors and mountaineering education. His goal was to combine a love of adventure and exploration with a critical, insightful and compassionate view of the world. James’ writing is thoughtful, enthusiastic, opinionated and sincere. His voice reaches across many subjects, from travel and science to animal welfare and sports, with his words echoing the deep curiosity that has inspired him to become a professional writer. For over 15 years his articles, books and presentations have brought his unique perspective to a broad range of audiences.

Besides his love of writing and adventure, James volunteers at several animal rescue groups, enjoys playing and recording music, collects classic video games and reads about two books a week.

Reviews

[Zardoz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Incredibly detailed and researched with lots of explanations and information.

[Bruce Carroll, · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have done many of the summit hikes in this book. Very accurate descriptions. After doing a few of the recommended summit hikes, you will get a feel for what the author means in descriptions of the others and this helps make good choices. I have found most of the hikes more challenging than he describes but he being citizen of higher elevations and not I, this is likely much the reason.

I go back to this book regularly when I contemplate my next trip to Colorado.