Mount Elbert is the Rocky Mountains' highest summit, reaching 14,440 feet into the sky above the Sawatch Range near Leadville. The mountain, which is located within the San Isabel National Forest, is the second-highest peak in the contiguous United States after California's Mount Whitney, named in honor of Territory of Colorado Governor Samuel Hitt Elbert, an influential figure in the state's formation during the late 19th century. The stunning snow-capped peak was first ascended in 1874 by Henry W. Stuckle and remains a popular climbing site today, categorized as a Class 1 to 2 route. Hikers can choose from three routes to ascend the mountain, including the moderate-difficulty 4.6-mile North Elbert Trail, the easier 5.5-mile South Elbert Trail, and the Class 2 Black Cloud Trail, which is only advised for expert hikers.

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