Grays and Torreys peaks are right next to each other, separated only by a ridgeline dipping between them. Considered introductory level, these two could become the first on a long tick list of 14ers for those who find themselves addicted to altitude. You can choose to do one or the other, or both, based on how big of a hike you want. Grays Peak alone as an out-and-back is highly recommended for a first-time 14er hike.

While there's no such thing as an "easy" 14er, some are quantifiably easier than others. Mount Bierstadt, for example, is a great choice for your first attempt at hiking above 14,000 feet. The climb begins right at the treeline, traversing a flat area at first. But then the bulk of the trail takes switchbacks up the flank of the mountain, on rocks and dirt that shift underfoot. The final push to the summit is the hardest part, requiring all of your limbs to scramble up a boulder-strewn ridge.

Mount Evans is one 14er that actually has a paved road to the top, but there is also a trail that takes a different route to the summit. If you want to really earn the lofty view, take the hike instead of the drive. The trail is rugged but fairly straightforward, and views are spectacular the whole way. Even though a road is nearby, you’ll feel like you’re on top of the world while traversing the airy ridge with glistening lakes below, and nothing but more mountains on every horizon.

Quandary Peak is another of Colorado’s more accessible 14ers, thanks to its location close to Breckenridge. The hike is quite the challenge, however, making a solid introduction to the rigors of peak bagging. It begins as a disused jeep road through the forest, but soon breaks above the treeline to ascend a barren ridge, with huge views in all directions. Near the end it steepens into boulders, loose talus, and perhaps snow before reaching the top.

Longs Peak is a true Colorado icon––one of the state’s proudest 14ers, and the only one in Rocky Mountain National Park. Though Longs looks imposing from all sides, the “Keyhole” notch allows passage to the summit. The route requires hiking 5 miles on a maintained trail, then scrambling a few more over talus and boulders––on steep terrain with exposed drop-offs––to finally reach the coveted summit. This climb is not for the inexperienced, but makes a worthy goal for anyone's Colorado bucketlist.