Hiking the Quandary Peak can be a challenge
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Quandary peak can be a difficult hiking experience and is recommended for seasoned hikers so, if you're intrigued by the challenge of bagging a fourteener and interested in experiencing oxygen deprivation, then this is the hike for you. Quandary Peak located south of Breckenridge will provide an exhilarating, lung-popping experience for all who conquer its summit.
The trail starts moderately but soon begins a steady, relentless ascent of about 3 miles as it gains over 3,100 feet in elevation. Hikers will find a copy of Mary Ellen Gilliland's book "The New Summit" or "National Geographics topomap of the Breckenridge - Tennessee Pass" to be helpful companions on this hike.
Spectacular views of other peaks can be found in all directions. To the south, you'll see Mt. Lincoln and Mt. Bross. Some distance to the northeast you'll be able to make out Mt. Grays and Mt. Torreys.
As you survey the landscape to the south from the steep summit, you'll be rewarded with a beautiful view of the Blue Lakes at the base of Quandary.
You need to be in decent shape to take on Quandary Peak. If you just got off the plane from Boston, this is not the hike to begin with as altitude sickness could lead to shortness of breath, dizziness, headaches, or worse. Expect this hike to be an all day affair. (approximately 8 hours). If you want the exhilaration that comes with a sense of accomplishment after a good hard ascent, Quandary Peak will do that for you. But you will be rewarded. At the rocky summit you will truly feel as though you're on top of the world.
Directions:
Drive south on highway 9 about 7.5 miles from the last traffic light in Breckenridge to Blue Lakes Road on your right. After turning right onto Blue Lakes Road (No.850) you turn right again onto No. 851 and proceed approximately 1.1 miles to the trailhead. There is not a large parking area here so most hikers park parallel along the road.
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