If you are thinking of hiking Mt. Elbert I strongly suggest that spending a night or two would be the best way to do it. The climb takes a solid 4-8 hours and spending the night before helps adjust to the altitude change for any out of towners. The Elbert Creek campsite is a great place to stay before the hike. Wake up first thing in the morning and hit the trail without having to do with often overcrowded parking a the trailhead. The campsite itself is good. Located near water obviously given the name) and is surrounded by high peaks and lots of pine.