Mount Lindsey (CLOSED)

NOTE: As of September 2021, Mount Lindsey has been closed to public access indefinitely. (Source) 

At 14,042 Mt. Lindsey is not one of the tallest 14ers, but it is a fun objective regardless. The Lily Lake trailhead can be somewhat difficult to access without a high clearance car, but most cars can probably make it. There is quite a bit of private property along the road so just be careful if you are planning on camping there before summit day.

From the trailhead, you can start south on easy ground following a stream still below tree line. After a bit over ¾ of a mile you will cross the Huerfano River to your left trending more east. Work your way up a bit of talus passing an old mine across a stream to your right. After cresting a ridgeline, you get a nice view of your objective to your right. Go up the easier slope that is visible until you reach a saddle between Iron Nipple and Mount Lindsey. Follow a loose gully to the summit through easy class 3 terrain. For this section, you might want to wear a helmet, especially if there are others climbing above you. When you gain the ridge, head left a few hundred yards to the summit. You can descend the way you came being careful not to send rocks shooting down to the potential climbers below.

As with all 14ers summit early and get off before the thunderstorms of the afternoon. Snow can be on this route until June in certain years so be prepared. The stream crossings in the first few miles can also be high in the early season as well.