No 14,000-foot peak could be called easy.

As we heard once from Colorado Fourteeners Initiative executive director Lloyd Athearn: “Understand that these are extremely high mountains, and even doing some of the ‘easiest’ fourteeners involves a lot of physical ability.”

Some are more forgiving, however — often called “beginner” peaks. Breaking in this summer? Here are a few to consider:

Mount Bierstadt: Many Denverites are made fourteener lovers from Bierstadt. That is thanks to the mountain’s proximity to Interstate 70. One exits for Georgetown and proceeds up Guanella Pass to the start of the trail, which remains well-defined until some brief Class 2 scrambling toward the top. Bonus for beginners: The parking lot is in view throughout the hike.

Grays and Torreys peaks: While many start their fourteener bagging journeys on Bierstadt, many more start by ticking off two. The scenic summits of Grays and Torreys are connected by a fairly mild ridge. Also conveniently accessed off I-70, the route is considered Class 1.

Mount Sherman: Here is one granting you relief from I-70, taking you to a less busy range beyond Fairplay. To be clear, Sherman is often still busy. That is because it is relatively friendly for a fourteener. And proper vehicles can drive to a starting point close to 12,000 feet.

Handies Peak: Handies is a more adventurous option deep in the San Juan Mountains of southwest Colorado, reached along the rough and rugged Alpine Loop outside Lake City. The drive is not exactly for newbies, but for those getting their fourteener legs under them, Handies is recommended. In his seminal “Colorado’s Fourteeners” guidebook, Gerry Roach ranks the standard route a “classic” and considers it Class 1+.

Some quick tips:

– Consult 14ers.com, which provides detailed route descriptions online and via its app.

– Get an early start. You should try to be off the mountain before afternoon storms, which are common in the summer, materialize.

– Bring lots of water and snacks. While guards against altitude sickness, they are not guarantees.

SETH BOSTER