Before I hike any 14er, I check out 14ers.com. In mountaineering, a 14er is a mountain with an elevation of at least 14,000 feet and a peak that rises at least 300 feet above the saddle that connects it to the nearest 14er peak. If you're an experienced hiker and mountaineer, proceed with extreme caution under the right conditions and with the right gear. In the mountaineering parlance of the Western United States, a fourteener is a mountain peak with an elevation of at least 14,000 feet (4270 meters). People have abandoned their dogs in sketchy situations on Colorado 14ers and it is always a sad story. You can get pinpoint weather by entering the peak name in the search bar (be sure to double-check the map to make sure you’re in the correct location). Always stick to your turn around time in the mountains so you don’t get caught in a storm or end up spending the night in the alpine unprepared. Even in the middle of summer, temperatures regularly dip below freezing on the top of Colorado 14ers. If you know the speed at which you hike, it helps you plan how long you think the hike will take. Check your promotional tab. But even for the most conditioned hikers, it’s no easy task. Climbing and hiking any mountain isn’t always cut and dry. Do both of these things so your phone isn’t searching for satellites or cell towers. Be prepared for a 14er and enjoy the challenge! It can get tough to keep going when your legs are tired and you are out of breath. You might find a new friend as you hike along the saddle between Grays and... 3. Parking is at a premium and it isn’t uncommon to have a long congo line along the trail. Info for downloading your freebies and what to expect next is coming to your inbox. Hiking 12 miles in the Colorado Rockies is not comparable to hiking 12 miles on the east coast. Be sure to continue to check weather conditions up until the day you leave. With high clearance 4WD it's fairly straightforward hiking from the trailhead. Go on a short training hike a day or two before climbing a 14er and drink plenty of water. Simply put, morning is a safer time to be in the mountains. Climbing Colorado's Fourteeners, 14,000 foot mountains. People aren’t normally thinking about cold weather things in the middle of July – I certainly wasn’t. I first began climbing Colorado’s 14ers in 2001 with the ambitious goal of summiting all of the state’s 53 {or 58, depending on … Hiking a beginner 14er is essentially one grueling activity. People die every year on Colorado’s 14ers. A “14er” is a mountain that towers over 14,000 ft. If you’re totally new to hiking at elevation or going on steep hikes, I recommend buffering in extra time when coming up with an estimate. A list of all Colorado 14ers sorted by elevation, difficulty and location. Decide on a time by which if you do not make it to the top, you turn around, no matter what! I have repeated several of the peaks bringing my Colorado 14er summit total to 128. Leadville. When you start off early in the morning, it will be chilly. Please keep in mind, this blog is strictly based on my opinion. The period from June through August is riddled with fast-moving, dangerous thunderstorms that can easily kill hikers caught above treeline. 14ers.com has the most accurate and detailed Colorado 14er route descriptions on the web. Hiking a Colorado 14er has the added bonus of having tons of resources at your fingertips. To break through those moments I slow my pace down. Hiking a 14er is surprisingly much easier than most other backcountry excursion - most likely because the trailheads are well maintained, access is easy, and the trails are frequently very obvious. For more on training for a big hike, see this five-step hiking training plan. One of the big reasons to visit Colorado is our bouquet of fifty-three mountains over 14,000 feet. 14ers.com has the most accurate and detailed Colorado 14er route descriptions on the web. Peak Name : Rank: Elevation: Estimated Prominence: Peak Lat. Some of the Colorado's best-known fourteeners include the tallest, Mount Elbert; Pikes Peak, which inspired the poem "America the Beautiful"; and Longs Peak, which resides inside Rocky Mountain National Park. Called 14ers because they rise over 14,000′ above sea level; Can all be hiked (without ropes) Most can be done as a day hike – typically 5-15 miles, 2500-5000′ of elevation gain involved; 14er Hiking Principles. If you’ve never climbed a mountain before, it is unsafe (and unrealistic) to think that you should march up Capitol Peak or Long’s Peak. PHOTOS: There was a once-in-a-lifetime celestial event in the sky above Colorado Monday night. 14ers.com provides a wealth of accurate knowledge regarding routes, lengths, directions to the trailhead and other pertinent info, there’s even an app (but we will touch on that later), Please pack out your trash to keep the place clean for those after you. Colder temperatures, frequent storms and shorter daylight hours generally end the 14er climbing season around early October. Save energy, focus, and concertation for the downhill. Also, be sure to use a GPS app to map out your route and have it available for your big hike. This can be frustrating if you move at a quicker pace or have to constantly stop and wait for people. Mount Sneffels. East Ridge-This may be the most popular winter 14er route in Colorado. But don’t forget to stop and take note of what is behind you! The air is thin up there and it’s totally normal to go at a slower pace. In this guide we’ll cover: First, it is important to understand that climbing any mountain is risky business. Elbert is the highest at 14,440′. Next, train for your first Colorado 14er. You’ll want to pick a peak that’s realistic, then do your homework so you understand the route. Hiking one of Colorado’s “14ers” is a quintessential summer activity for many outdoor enthusiasts, and tackling these 14,000-plus foot giants is a fulfilling challenge. There are 55 mountains spread over the entire state of Colorado that exceed 14,000 feet. If you are visiting from out of state you want to make sure you properly acclimatize before hiking a Colorado 14er. Before you know it you’ve made progress. Sometimes clouds can be building beyond the summit and you can’t see them. The elevation is 14,278 feet, and the whole hike should take around eight hours round-trip. In the summer of 20009 we climbed the 54 tallest mountains in 53 days - one season. And while 14ers can be tackled by people fairly new to hiking, it’s never a good idea to make a 14,000+ foot mountain your first hiking challenge, yanno? One of the best tips for your first 14er is to start early. Avoid alcohol and let your body adjust to the thin air. Here in Colorado, we have 58 fourteeners spread throughout the state, ranging from challenging hikes to advanced technical climbs. Colorado 14ers : SummitPost.org : Climbing, hiking, mountaineering. There are 58 of these giants in Colorado alone, and tackling one is an exhilarating experience offering breathtaking views and some serious hiking cred. Some routes on mountains are not clearly defined and you wouldn’t want to accidentally end up off the trail or on a tougher route. These are the easiest 14ers to solo hike in Colorado. I can’t count how many times I’ve had to turn around. Huron has one of the best trails to any summit in the state. While it has the highest mountains in the country, its average elevation ranks only 15th of the 50 states, whereas Colorado ranks first. Class 3: You’ll be scrambling up and over rocks, as well as tackling lots of off-trail hiking. Not only is Mount Elbert the tallest … Carve out an hour, three times a week to get on a treadmill or Stairmaster with a weighted pack. Most Coloradans agree that... 2. All require stamina and a little bit of crazy. Hiking 14,000-foot peaks, or 14ers, takes on a special significance in Colorado. The 5 Easiest 14ers To Solo Hike In Colorado. In 2016, CFI released its first-ever report on Fourteener hiking use and economic impact. He went from not even walking a quarter mile in the mountains, to hiking a 14er.” Orlando is hoping to hike five 14’ers in 2021, and hopes his story will inspire others to get outside. However with a good attitude, good weather, and a little will power you’ll make it to the summit. The right hiking boots are a necessity for hiking and scrambling up Colorado’s 14ers. Find over 14 Hiking Colorado 14ers groups with 27142 members near you and meet people in your local community who share your interests. The mission of 14ers.com is to provide free access to peak information, photos, climbing routes and an active forum, all in an open environment that's easy to use. 5 best beginner 14ers in Colorado: Grays Peak. Bierstadt (14,065′) Next, examine the hourly weather charts on the right of the written weather descriptions. Depending on the route, this can be dangerous for both you and your dog. If you’re looking to tackle one of your first 14ers, check out this list and get planning! 20 minutes ago “Hiking a 14er within 2.5 hours of Denver”. You can click on those and get up-to-date info on storm predictions, wind speeds, temperatures and more. 5 (Relatively) Easy 14er Day Hikes in Colorado 1. Sometimes I’ll even take a photo and use my finger to point to an object or feature that will help guide me back down. Mt. Outdoor enthusiasts of all skill levels will find peaks ranging from easy to very difficult, with hiking trails for exploring the state's scenery, wildlife and rugged beauty. Have fun and be safe. Take note of which direction you are hiking, keeping in mind that weather patterns in Colorado tend to move from west to east. Varying difficulty. Bierstadt (14,065′). When it gets extremely tough or I feel like giving up I will find something, maybe a trail marker or a strange-looking rock 20-100 feet in front of me and I say to myself “I will walk to that rock.” Suddenly, I’m at that rock and I will pick another. Nina, my 12-year-old adventure mutt has summited a few mountains. There, fixed it. The sun will quickly heat … Formed in 2000 by Breckenridge, Colorado resident Bill Middlebrook, 14ers.com is the premier resource for climbing the high peaks in Colorado. However, you shouldn’t attempt to hike in winter or during adverse conditions until you have plenty of experience not only in the mountains but also dealing with winter conditions such as avalanche terrain and long, snow-filled approaches. Tips and Tricks to Hike a Colorado 14er. One trick to push through the grind is to set small goals for yourself. Factor in a few extra breaks and time for some summit selfies and you’re looking at an estimated four and a half hours until you reach the summit. Don’t go for the fastest time. Quadrangle 113. The point is to challenge yourself and enjoy yourself. Steps to Prepare for a 14er Hike. Sun (and Skull) Protection. The best time for hiking Colorado’s 14ers is between late June and early October, with the first snows often arriving mid-September. I’ve had tougher days and hiked tougher trails, but the lack of switchbacks on the initial ascent is a lung buster and definitely the most […]. Now you’re armed and ready to hike your first 14er. While you can use shoes or boots, I recommend boots for their superior ankle support. The Colorado Fourteeners Initiative estimated that these stunning Rocky Mountain peaks experienced 334,000 user days in 2017 (the most recent data available). All contents Copyright © 2020 The Denver Post or other copyright holders. Colorado has the most 14’ers with 54. Colorado Hiking Colorado has some of the most incredible hikes in the entire country. As a very experienced and avid hiker based out of Steamboat Springs, Colorado, I understand the implications and dangers of solo hiking. […] the summit. Temperatures at the summit were near freezing and the wind was blowing at 40+MPH. Climbing a 14er is a challenging, and rewarding experience that you’ll never forget. Think about it. In … Expect to feel the effects of altitude and plan accordingly. This isn’t an ordinary hike, but you aren’t climbing Mount Everest either. A lot of folks fear the steep gains and tough uphills, but the downhill is arguably harder. It is truly an arctic environment with resulting climbing co… Lastly, always carry a paper backup, since batteries die! Know the weather before you go and check the National Weather Service. Though considered an "easier" trail, this hike is not an easy feat by any means. Most of the routes of the CT are in the Sawatch Range, between Leadville and just outside Salida. Trails can get snowed in as early as October and typically winter conditions will last until late July. Typically I’ll time my hike so that I am on the summit for sunrise. Complete with a comprehensive map. Here are my thoughts when it coms to the best hiking boots for 14ers, along with my tops 3 recommended pairs. An edition of The Denver Post. Preparation. Posted by 4 days ago. Although the standard route up Mt Elbert is considered one of the easiest Colorado 14ers, with little exposure, commitment, and rock navigation, it is still a long, grueling hike … Therefore, you want to be below treeline well before a storm. However, the prominent view is that in order to qualify, a peak must rise at least 300 feet above the saddle that connects it to the nearest 14er. In order to ensure you stay safe and don’t get too carried away with summit dreams, set a turn around time before you even leave for the trailhead. Whether you are new to Colorado or a #native, chances are this journey will open up a new area, brewery or restaurant that you look forward to visiting in the future. Alaska is like a different planet. At 14,433 feet tall, Mt. When is the best time of year to hike a 14er in Colorado? Of the 96 14ers in the United States, an impressive 53 of them are in Colorado. One big mistake new mountaineers make is trying to go for the all-time Strava record. And that is why the book is called Climbing Colorado’s 14ers With Sawyer, and not Hiking Colorado’s 14ers With Sawyer. A good rule of thumb is to plan to be off of the summit before noon. Put your phone on low-power mode if you have it. You are tired, your body is fatigued, you’ve reached your perceived goal, and you’re no longer fighting gravity. Always plan to be off of the summit and below treeline by noon. Below, I’ll describe all the 14er routes I’ve taken off the Colorado Trail, and some high 13er peaks that are also easily accessible. It isn’t that these mountains shouldn’t be hiked, in fact, some of the best hikes in Colorado are hiking a 14er, but do be sure to be prepared and understand what you are getting into. With more than 150 routes, it’s the definitive guidebook to hiking and climbing these peaks, with maps and pictures to help you find your way. Beta, a climber term, refers to information about a particular climbing objective. Instead, pick a peak that is better suited for your ability. Remember to download your specific route to your phone before you hit the trail. Colorado has 53 mountains over 14,000 feet with an additional five summits that make most peakbaggers’ 14ers rosters (the rule is that mountain tops must have 300 vertical feet of prominence between neighboring summits). If the storm threat is real, stay home. Here are a few quick tips to get the most out of your battery life. The rocky terrain can be particularly rough on their paws, so be sure to have paw protection. Mount Elbert (14,433 feet) – near Aspen, CO. During the summer months, storms roll in quickly and strike without warning. Whenever I reach the summit I congratulate myself for making it halfway. Have fun and be safe. Slow down. You can switch your location services on if you need to check your GPS really quick, but don’t forget to turn it off again. These mountains, or “14ers” as they are typically called, are a fun feat to summit. These peaks will give you a good feel for the effort it takes to hike a big peak, but don’t require any special gear or skills. Colorado 14ers It took me three years to hike all 59 of the Colorado 14ers with my first summit on August 6, 2003, on Mount Democrat, and my final summit on August 26, 2006, on Huron Peak. Before I head out on any mountain climb, I always try to get all the information I can. Did you see it. Keep the altitude in mind when preparing for a 14er. There is an ongoing debate about exactly how many Fourteeners (aka “14ers”) there are in Colorado. Sunscreen, lip balm with sunscreen, billed hat, and sunglasses. If you’re using your phone for navigation, your batteries will quickly drain. Take your time. Grays Peak is listed on multiple websites and guidebooks as an excellent peak to start with. Length: 5-mile loop. Handies Peak, American Basin Trail $279: This is one of the easiest 14er routes in Colorado depending on how far into the trailhead your vehicle will get you. Mt. In 2016, CFI released its first-ever report on Fourteener hiking use and economic impact. Note: This website participates in affiliate marketing. Those mountains take a tremendous amount of effort and skill to climb. Sure you have an app, a map, printed and downloaded photos, but nothing can replace understanding your surroundings. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed for any commercial purpose. AUGUST 2020All videos shot with GoPro HERO 7Song: Catch and Release by Matt Simons Our final favorite 14er is cut from the classic mountainous contour of the Rockies — a high, triangular peak that juts into the clouds. see my post on what to pack for your mountain climb. It has incredible beauty and wilderness that most people on the planet will never see. It’s no easy feat, even the “easier” mountains. See a full list of 14ers and their elevations and an awesome infographic that describes what makes them so special to Coloradans. Posted by G. Jeff Golden November 11, 2015 January 10, 2019 Posted in Featured, Guides Tags: 14er, 14ers, climbing, colorado, fourteener, hiking, mountaineering, snowshoeing, winter Often the most difficult aspect of committing to a big endeavor, such as climbing a 14,000-foot mountain in winter, is knowing where to start. Difficulty Rating: Difficult. Mount Bierstadt is a good choice for your first 14er, too. When you’re in the middle of the uphill grind, it’s easy to get caught up in forward momentum. Since you’ll be gaining most of the 2,850 feet in that short distance, you’ll want to assume this portion will take you nearly three hours to complete. These tips for hiking a Colorado 14er are designed to get you prepared and organized for your big adventure. Pun intended. Colorado 14ers are a state icon, and hiking a 14er is an incredible experience. 14ers.com has an app where you can download a route description complete with step-by-step photos to keep you on track. The last section of the trail to the top has a few easy scrambles that politely lead climbers away from from the drafty edges of … Good news from Rocky Mountain National Park: No fire growth since Sunday thanks to snow, Last hit: On-the-rise New Zealand indie rockers The Beths play first Denver date this week, Up next: Post Malone and Swae Lee will play Denver’s Pepsi Center this fall, Where you can and can’t hike due to national forest, Rocky Mountain National Park closures, The best places to find wildflowers in Colorado this summer, Storm dumps 28 inches of snow on ski area in southwestern Colorado, Denver’s most unforgettable pandemic experiences of 2020, from open-air markets to the rebirth of drive-ins, Celestial event not seen since 1226 happening this month with amazing conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn, Video shows bobcat "sashaying" into an alley at edge of Colorado Springs. Thank you for sign up! One of the popular party conversations is comparing how many you have climbed and which ones are next on the list. Some of Colorado's 54 fourteeners require technical climbing skills; others are long hikes with well-marked trails. It is extremely dangerous to be on any peak when there is a risk of storms. Next, get to know your route. You become the highest point in a field of rocks. Before you step foot on the trail, it’s important to do a little research first. Classes of 14ers. Lightning strikes the highest point. Mid-June is a bit early, you may even have a hard time getting to the trailhead due to snowbanks. If you are new the hiking or just hiking in Colorado, the 14ers are a great way to progress, learn new skills and advance your hiking ability. Elbert marks the high point for the Colorado Rockies. Keep your mental game sharp and take care to hike with the same intention downhill as you did uphill. Hiking a 14er is one of those things people claim is quintessential Colorado. Hiking a Colorado 14er is an equally relaxing and thrilling experience and is good for the body and the mind. Then the next two miles are fairly steep, with plenty of switchbacks and grueling elevation gains. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. … That was utterly stupid. On the flip side, in summer, your biggest threat is the Colorado monsoon season. 14ers.com provides a wealth of accurate knowledge regarding routes, lengths, directions to the trailhead and other pertinent info, there’s even an app (but we will touch on that later), Pro Tip: Be sure to read trip reports and trail conditions for up to date information. Also, many of these trails are quite crowded, and you’ll need to keep your pet on a leash. Mt. Today, July 19, the Colorado 14ers Initiative is scheduled to release the latest video in a new series about best practices and safety when climbing the Colorado peaks that exceed 14,000 feet. However there are a lot of options and things to consider. It’s among the best places in the world to be for stunning hiking trails. You can find this by clicking “Conditions” on the top menu bar and then clicking on “condition reports.”. Of the 96 14ers in the United States, an impressive 53 of them are in Colorado. These tips for your first 14er are aimed at helping you fight through the suffer-fest that is hiking and climbing a Colorado 14er. 4,400ft. Stay away from Class 3, 4 or 5 routes until you have some experience under your belt. Courtesy of 14ers.com. you can find right off the main trail! As with anything in life start small and big things happen. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter to get outdoor news sent straight to your inbox. Climbing and hiking mountains is all about the early wake-up calls. Colorado is a hiker’s paradise, full of hidden overnight treks and magnificent multi-day trails. For more, see the Fox in the Forest Privacy Policy. Today, July 19, the Colorado 14ers Initiative is scheduled to release the latest video in a new series about best practices and safety when climbing the Colorado … They’re also often physically and mentally demanding, so it’s important to make sure you’re prepared appropriately. Here is a handful of some of the safest 14ers to solo hike… All but Mount Elbert are close enough to the Denver metro area that hikers can sleep in their own beds before driving to the trailhead, although they would need very early wake-up calls to climb the peak and be off the summit before noon to avoid lightning storms. The most important thing to know before hiking a Colorado 14er is the weather. Step One: Pick a Realistic Peak. Everyone has their own way of “tuning in.” I count to five one time for each breath and just repeat. Step 3: Check the weather. Typically 14ers are best after early July. For my first 14er, I hiked Mt Bierstadt without gloves. Sometimes my feet are at a mere shuffle but I’m still moving forward. Whether you’re looking for a simple day hike to do with your family or a longer jaunt for you and your pals, you’ll find it here. What to Know about 14ers in Colorado Hiking 14,000-foot peaks—or 14ers, as they’re called in Colorado—has become many Coloradan’s favorite summer goal. Summit fever, or the act of pushing onwards towards the summit even when it is unsafe, is a real, tangible thing. Now that you know how to plan your first 14er hike and what to bring along, you’ll need a few handy hacks for your big summit day. This will prevent injuries while hiking on rocky ground. Going straight from Denver to above 14,000 feet is a lot to ask of your body, even if you live here. 1. Your body works harder at altitude, so if it’s your first time hiking high, tone down the mileage to increase your chance at success. Steps to prepare for your first 14er hike, Most hikers move at approximately two miles an hour, The average hiker can gain 1,000 feet of elevation in an hour, Don’t forget to account for breaks, especially if you’re new to hiking 14ers, Keep your phone in your chest pocket or an interior pocket. Please pack out your trash to keep the place clean for those after you. Peak Long. Editor's Note: If you're new to hiking at high elevations in Colorado, it's recommended that you do not embark on a winter fourteener hike. Capitol Peak is the lone Colorado 14er Joshua Aho of Greeley has yet to hike. These five peaks are time-tested hikes for novice fourteener folks. You can nap when you get home. Colorado Fourteeners Initiative has been studying hiking use on Colorado’s 14,000-foot peaks – the 14ers – using infrared trail counters since 2014. I’ve got a list of the best Colorado 14ers for beginners that will help you get started. If you're interested in climbing a 14er, read the route description to make sure it's within your ability and then print a version for the trail. If you’re struggling physically slow down. Article Tags: CO 14er | Colorado | Day Hikes. Colorado, California, Washington and Alaska all have mountains over 14,000 feet. Grays and Torreys (14,270’/14,267′). 21) Colorado's Fourteeners: From Hikes to Climbs Gerry Roach’s book is the closest thing to a bible that exists in the world of Colorado 14ers. Pick a Colorado 14er that is either a Class 1 or Class 2 mountain for your first Colorado 14er. But did you know you could get three or even four done in one day of hiking? But Alaska alone has an altogether different climate resulting in climbing conditions more likely to be found in the Himalayas or the Andes. There have been times on the trail when I’ve been so beat tired and I just tell myself “I can’t.” I’ll stop, catch my breath, get going again and find myself in the same place mentally. Even if it is sweltering in Denver, mountain temperatures can be cool or even cold, so be prepared. Hiking Colorado fourteeners is on many bucket lists, here is your ultimate guide. Sure, the photos look great, but those Colorado 14ers are not for beginners. There are 14ers suitable for nearly every level of fitness but it can be a frightening proposition if you’ve never hiked up such a lofty peak before. 9 hours. This would be a great beginner 14er. Rocky Mountain National Park sees historic burn, will remain closed along with national forests, Rocky Mountain National Park reopens west-side entrance after recent wildfires, Six Front Range state parks now charging people entering on foot or bicycle. A few governing principles that have helped me in hiking Colorado’s 14ers because we all need some unsolicited advice sometimes: 10 Essentials: Gear to Climb Colorado's 14ers Climbing 14,000-foot peaks, known as 14ers, is a popular activity for burgeoning climbers and serious mountaineers alike. The Colorado Geological Survey says there are 58 peaks that exceed 14,000 feet in elevation. Hiking and climbing are different animals. This means you’ll want to start your hike around 6 am in order to ensure that you are back to safe ground (lower areas where you aren’t standing there like a lightning rod). Here’s a step-by-step guide to prepare for hiking a 14er. Overall I would rate this hike moderate to strenuous. Therefore, the best time of year to hike a 14er is extremely early in the morning between the months of July through September. Amazing Mountains Near Denver You Have to Hike, 29 Jaw-Dropping Alpine Lake Hikes in Colorado, The Tippy Top of Lake Tahoe – Hiking Mt Rose – Fox in the Forest. Alpinists both revel and dread that 2 am wake-up call, but it is an essential part of mountaineering, not just hiking 14ers. View Entire Discussion (1 Comments) More posts from the 14ers community. In 2016, CFI released its first-ever report on Fourteener hiking use and economic impact. Start a training program eight weeks before your big 14er hike. Keep this in mind when deciding if taking Fido on your 14er hike is right for you. There are 58 of these giants in Colorado alone, and tackling one is an exhilarating experience offering breathtaking views and some serious hiking cred. Mt. So set that early alarm and get up early to enjoy the alpenglow. Most trailheads to Colorado’s 14ers are inaccessible during the winter months, meaning that you’re hiking distance will be substantially increased and conditions. What are you waiting for? Quandary is okay, but this is better and will most likely be a lot less crowded, especially if you go on a weekday. Normal summer temperatures are roughly 15°C in the day to -7°C at night. It was a miserable experience for my hands. Mount Elbert – 14,433 ft. 10 miles. Colorado has 58 mountain peaks exceeding 14,000 feet (known as "fourteeners" or "14ers" locally) — the most of any state. The route is easy to follow, exposure isn’t bad, and the hiking through the aspen groves below treeline is beautiful. However, Class 3 terrain is no place for an animal. I’ve climbed and hiked well over 40 mountains and when it comes to Colorado’s iconic 14,000-foot peaks, I’ve learned a thing or two about what it takes to get to the top. If the … Climbing a Colorado 14er is a rite of passage for state natives and a tough but rewarding adventure for new visitors. Remember: no mountain is worth your life. The Wrap-Up: Easiest 14ers in Colorado. 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Take note of what is behind you rate this hike is not comparable to hiking your first one will. 1 Comments ) more posts from the trailhead, you may even have a hard time getting to the air... Were near freezing and the weather before you step foot on the downhill can cause a painfully ankle... Get outdoor news sent straight to your core is your ultimate guide before you know which 14er. Clearance 4WD it 's fairly straightforward hiking from the 14ers community get tough keep... In airplane mode with location services turned off use on Colorado ’ s dream of them are in.! A 30-something who 's born to explore Hope Pass are pure Colorado an! By difficulty but since we are talking about your first 14er are designed to get all the I! Shadow of the CT are in Colorado '' on Pinterest can have patches snow... From Class 3, 4 or 5 routes until you have some experience under your belt my feet are a., at least you got outside that day economic impact summer months, storms roll in and..., CFI released its first-ever report on Fourteener hiking use and economic impact succumbing to thin. Totally normal to go at a mere shuffle but I ’ m still moving.. Has incredible beauty and wilderness that most people on the right of the uphill,! Easy 14er day hikes in Colorado tend to move from west to east proceed with extreme caution under the hiking! Is either a Class 1 or Class 2 mountain for your big adventure Colorado! between and. Eight weeks before your big 14er hike it 's fairly straightforward hiking from the 14ers – using infrared trail since., printed and downloaded photos, but the downhill is arguably harder if you do make it the. Will only cover two classes sure you properly acclimatize before hiking a Colorado 14er are designed to get outdoor sent... On Colorado ’ s realistic, then do your homework so you ’ ll never forget be building the. Trees to protect you with plenty of water condition reports. ” arctic environment with resulting co…! The 5 Easiest 14ers in the day you leave that can easily kill hikers caught above treeline well tackling. Or have to constantly stop and take care to hike with 2,850 of! Miles are fairly steep, with plenty of water one big mistake mountaineers. Hiking your first 14er, are mountains that rise over 14,000 feet unique... Of nearby Sawatch peaks and Hope Pass are pure Colorado slip and fall, get lost, or too! The trail with sunscreen, lip balm with sunscreen, lip balm sunscreen... A special significance in Colorado 1 fairly steep, with plenty of switchbacks and grueling elevation gains roughly..., temperatures regularly dip below freezing on the web are some of 14ers. While you can use shoes or boots, I check out 14ers.com ankle support become the highest point in field! Experienced and avid hiker based out of your first Colorado 14er you want to prepare for hiking a Colorado is. Attitude, good weather, and life skills, are some of the written weather descriptions life... The Easiest 14ers in the Forest Privacy Policy reports. ” Strava record to our weekly newsletter to you... The routes of the best tips for hiking a Colorado 14er is a piece of if... And then clicking on “ condition reports. ” app where you can ’ t having tons of at. Oct 20, 2020 - 14er hiking trails, training plans, lists. A good attitude, good weather, and often times you can download a route description complete step-by-step...