Climbed Estes Cone on October 15 with my wife. Great climb! This is by far the steepest climb we did this year and a great 14er training climb. The total hike was about 6.6 miles and the last half mile is quite steep. The great part about the climb is it is almost entirely below tree line with the exception of the last 100 yards.

It was very windy but because you were in the trees all the way it was not a factor until you got on the summit. And once on the summit the views were amazing. The views of Longs Peak, Meeker and Twin Sisters are fantastic and looking down on the Lily Lake valley is great.

This is definitely my favorite climb of the year! We will probably do it again next year in preparation for our first 14er!

Estes Cone from a clearing just past Eugenia Mine. The trees obscure the view along the trail at most times so this is one of the few good views on the trail.

The crossroads to Longs Peak or Estes Cone.

The views of Long's Peak along the way are amazing!

A picture of Sally and I at the summit!

My GPS reading at the top. Actual elevation is 11,006.

Some really cool trees along the trail which we were able to appreciate more coming down!