However, a misstep on the downhill can cause a painfully twisted ankle or worse. Many people slip and fall, get lost, or put too much wear and tear on their bodies during the descent. Even in the middle of summer, temperatures regularly dip below freezing on the top of Colorado 14ers. If you’re using your phone for navigation, your batteries will quickly drain.
If you’ve never climbed a mountain before, it is unsafe to think that you should march up Capitol Peak or Long’s Peak. Those mountains take a tremendous amount of effort and skill to climb. Sure, the photos look great, but those Colorado 14ers are not for beginners. Instead, pick a peak that is better suited for your ability. Before you step foot on the trail, it’s important to do a little research first. You’ll want to pick a peak that’s realistic, then do your homework so you understand the route.
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Fortunately, Aerobic Capacity Is Very Responsive To Training
Practically speaking, this means that the conditions you encounter on the hike are easily manageable by mountain standards. And while a relatively easy (emphasis on “relatively”) mountain like Bierstadt can be summited by tourists and families, none of these hikes are a joke. So, as we’re headed into 14er-climbing season — conditions up there are good June through August — let’s figure out how to plan a couple trips. There are no easy 14ers (with the exception of driving to the top of Mount Evans and Pikes Peak in your air-conditioned car). The pitch isn’t the only factor that makes them tough, it’s the altitude. The barometric pressure decreases when you climb, causing air to expand in volume and decrease the amount of air you take in on each breath.
Grays and Torreys Peaks – West of Georgetown on I-70, just over an hour form Denver. Hiking at over 14,000 feet is unique to only four U.S. states. Colorado, California, Washington and Alaska all have mountains over 14,000 feet. Think of easy to digest and tasty foods you normally consume.
Enjoy The Summit!
Of gear you need to plan for end up making that much difference. Be sure to share your trip plan with someone at home. Include your expected departure and return times, the names of the people in your group, and the route you intend to climb. Don’t rely on cell service, although your phone may work on some peaks. Be proficient and ready to self-rescue in the event of an emergency. Don’t call search and rescue because you’re “tired.” Believe us, it happens.
Every year, Colorado’s mountains take the lives of avid hikers. Many of these hikers go into the mountains, unprepared for the task at hand. Having a proper 14er packing list not only increases your chances for a successful summit, but also keeps you prepared should there be an emergency. Stay safe in the mountains this summer and carry these essential items.
I have a passion for writing, hiking, and camping and hope to share my experiences and adventures with our readers. Many reasons may force you to turn around and dash those 14er summit dreams. Maybe some unexpected bad weather rolls in, halting your hike. Whatever the reason may be, do not be ashamed of having to turn around. There is nothing better than cracking a cold one or enjoying a celebratory snack at the top of the summit after a long, labor-intense hike.
Pikes Peak is one of two fourteeners in the state that you can drive up in your car (the other is Mt. Evans). With so many fourteeners scattered across Colorado, how do you decide which fourteener you should climb first? The website 14ers.com is the best resource for planning your first peak-bagging trip. To access some of the information on the website, you will need to register for a free account, but even without registering you can access some handy resources to get you started. Alex has been hiking, camping and backpacking for more than 15 years. With more than 40 ascents of peaks 13,000 feet or higher in Colorado and California, he’s got a broad skillset fit for the Colorado Rocky Mountains.
Without a doubt, hiking a 14er will be hard on your quads and knees both on the way up and on the way down. I have found that these come in handy in windy conditions. Windburn is a thing, and believe it or not, most 14ers are pretty windy at the top. Having a buff to use as a face shield will protect your face from those chilly, windy conditions.
Make sure to stop and take snack breaks when you feel hungry. Refueling will help sustain your energy to get you to that summit. Hiking a 14er is almost no different than other hikes. Now that you know how to prepare for a 14er and what to bring, here are a few other pro tips to consider when hiking your first 14er.
Wet socks can increase the chances of developing blisters and can be just downright uncomfortable. Bringing an extra pair of dry wool socks will make sure you are comfortable when hiking a 14er. Plan to carry at least 3 liters of water for your 14er hike. Additionally, avoid any cotton materials because cotton dries slowly. A short-sleeve top will also come in handy as you descend back to the trailhead as warm temperatures of the summer day heat the trail and your body.
If you are climbing a steep slope or gully, be careful not to send debris down on other climbers. The altitude may impair your judgment, so it is very important to stay alert. Skiing/boarding a 14er is much different than visiting the ski area. It takes a certain set of skills to climb and ski in the backcountry and terrain can be steep, dangerous, and difficult to ski. Research the route thoroughly so you know a lot about the terrain and landmarks before you even get there.
He enjoys helping others discover and enjoy these peaks, and helping protect them for generations to come. Checking the weather before hiking a 14er will help you determine the best day and time to go so you don’t get stormed off the mountain. Generally, most 14ers can be hiked in one day; however, some peaks can be made more enjoyable by splitting them up into two days.
Summer thunderstorms often develop on 14ers during the afternoon, so you always want to be heading down from the summit by noon. After this, your risk of getting caught in a storm increases dramatically. Handies Peak and San Luis Peak aren’t the most accessible, unless you happen to be traipsing around southwestern Colorado. If you are, take advantage of the opportunity and climb these mountains!
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