Mount Columbia

Mount Columbia rises to an elevation of 4,290 meters above sea level, featuring steep rocky slopes and extensive glacial formations along its flanks.

The mountain received its name in 1961 to honor Columbia University, joining other Colorado peaks named after educational institutions in the United States.

The summit serves as a training ground for mountaineers preparing for technical climbs, attracting experienced climbers from numerous mountain clubs across North America.

Climbers access the mountain through marked trails departing from the North Cottonwood Creek trailhead, requiring permits obtained from local ranger stations.

The mountain contains multiple micro-ecosystems at different elevations, supporting rare alpine vegetation that survives extreme temperature variations throughout the year.

Location: Chaffee County

Elevation above the sea: 4,290.8 m

GPS coordinates: 38.90388,-106.29752

Latest update: March 17, 2025 20:09