Challenger Point

Challenger Point is a mountain summit in the Sangre de Cristo Range, part of the Rocky Mountains. It reaches an elevation of approximately 14,087 feet and offers views across the surrounding peaks from its top.

The peak received its name in 1987 from the United States Board of Geographic Names as a memorial to the Space Shuttle Challenger crew. This naming links space exploration history with this mountain summit in the Rockies.

A memorial plaque at the summit bears the Latin phrase 'Ad Astra Per Aspera', expressing the connection between mountaineering and space exploration. Climbers who reach the peak encounter this quiet tribute to astronauts.

The North Slope route starts at Willow Creek Trailhead at about 2,700 meters elevation and demands significant physical preparation. Visitors should expect changing weather conditions and carry sufficient water along with protective clothing for high-altitude conditions.

This peak is one of Colorado's many fourteeners and sits directly beside Kit Carson Mountain. Its proximity to this neighboring summit makes this area interesting for climbers wanting to tackle multiple high peaks together.

Location: Saguache County

GPS coordinates: 37.98028,-105.60667

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:02