Welcome to the digital home for all things from Dalton Johnson.
All tagged Colorado
Mount Massive, Colorado’s second-highest peak, is the often overlooked step-sibling to the highest peak in Colorado, Mount Elbert, just across the valley. However, climbing this iconic mountain comes with its challenges, and mistakes can quickly turn an enjoyable trek into a tough lesson. Based on personal experiences, here are the top mistakes to avoid when tackling Mount Massive, so you can have a safer and more rewarding adventure.
Climbing a 14er—a peak with an elevation of at least 14,000 feet—is a bucket-list adventure for many hikers. However, timing your ascent is crucial for a safe and successful climb. Starting too late can put you at risk of thunderstorms, heat, and other hazards that can turn an enjoyable hike into a dangerous situation. Here’s what you need to know about timing your 14er adventure.
Colorado is home to some of the most iconic 14ers in the United States, and Mount Massive and Mount of the Holy Cross are two standout peaks in the Sawatch Range. If you’re deciding which to climb first, this guide will help you compare the two peaks based on difficulty, scenery, logistics, and the best times to climb.
Waking up later than planned, I crawled out of my van with a packed bag, fueled by coffee and laced-up boots. Clicking my Coros watch to start recording my trek, I set off down the trail for a car-to-car push of Mount Massive. As Colorado's second-highest peak, I felt nervous but confident I could summit in good time. My legs were still sore from climbing Mount of the Holy Cross just a few days before, another challenging 14er in Colorado’s Sawatch Range.
When I first started my peak-bagging journey, I was obsessed with climbing 14ers. Living in California gave me some great options, but nowhere near the variety Colorado offers. The flipside? Not as many people in California are chasing those 14,000-foot summits. In Colorado, the peaks are buzzing with climbers.
After my first few successful summits in California, I felt invincible. I tackled these mountains car-to-car and stuck to routes no harder than Class 4. Climbing solo felt completely fine—until the day I experienced altitude sickness.
When Kristin and I decided to road trip from California to Colorado to climb all the Sawatch 14ers, we had no idea the challenges that awaited us. Starting north to south, Mount of the Holy Cross was our first peak—a trial by fire for Kristin’s first 14er and a humbling reminder of the demands of high-altitude climbs for me.
You don’t need much to go for a hike, which is perfect for van life. Toss on a pair of shoes, ideally something a bit sturdy, and head out for a walk in the woods, desert, mountains, where ever your van is parked. I’ve lived on the road for 8 years now, in a van, focused on getting outside as much as possible to snap pretty photographs and reflect upon the question, “Why am I here?”
My legs still burn from the 20 days I spent climbing all of the 14ers in the Sawatch Range of Colorado. Home to fifteen summits poking above 14,000 feet the Sawatch range is a paradise for mountaineers, peak baggers, and hikers, offering a condensed grouping of challenging summits to test your fitness. For me, the goal was to climb all of these peaks in a single season, but for you, it could be to break the FKT or climb one a year, that is up to you.
Mount of the Holy Cross is a striking 14er located in Colorado's Sawatch Range, known for its unique snow-filled cross on the northeast face, which gives the peak its name. At 14,005 feet, the climb offers breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment for those who summit it. Here’s everything you need to know to prepare for your climb:
Winter's arrival doesn't mean you have to stay indoors. In fact, it's the perfect time to embrace the great outdoors and embark on a snowshoeing adventure. Snowshoeing is an accessible and enjoyable winter activity suitable for individuals of all ages and fitness levels. If you're searching for the perfect snowshoeing destination, you're in the right place. In this article, we'll guide you to some of the most captivating snowshoeing locations across the United States and Canada.
As the first snowflakes delicately fall and the mountains transform into a pristine white canvas, winter enthusiasts from around the globe eagerly anticipate the enchantment of the season.
But for those who yearn for that perfect blend of thrilling days on the slopes and pampered nights in luxurious lodgings, winter is more than just a season; it's an invitation to embark on a captivating journey to some of the world's most exquisite ski destinations that seamlessly weave adventure and opulence into a single tapestry.
From the rugged mountains of Montana to the charming chalet villages of Switzerland, let's dive into the ski havens that promise the ultimate fusion of skiing and indulgent accommodations this winter.
As the cold winter months approach, many of us yearn for a cozy escape from the frigid temperatures and gray skies. What better way to unwind and rejuvenate than by indulging in the delightful combination of hot springs and cold snow? Picture yourself immersed in warm, mineral-rich waters while delicate snowflakes fall gently around you—a perfect harmony of relaxation and natural beauty. In this blog, we'll explore some exquisite winter getaways that offer the unique blend of hot springs and snowy landscapes.
Peak bagging is not just a hobby; it's a passion, a challenge, and a pursuit that drives adventurers to conquer some of the tallest and most majestic mountains in the world. At its core, peak bagging involves climbing mountains, particularly focusing on 14ers, which are peaks that reach an elevation of 14,000 feet or higher. This activity is popular among mountaineers and outdoor enthusiasts who seek the thrill of reaching a summit and the satisfaction of ticking off another peak from their list.
For van lifers, the allure of the open road and the freedom to chase sunsets across diverse landscapes is a lifestyle like no other. From the rugged mountain ranges to the serene coastal highways, the van life community seeks out the most picturesque spots to witness the day's spectacular farewell. In this article, we'll explore six must-visit locations that promise van lifers unforgettable sunset experiences.
If your idea of a winter getaway involves the perfect blend of opulence and adventure, the Rocky Mountains beckon with a selection of extraordinary ski chalets that redefine luxury. Rally your friends, dust off your ski gear, and get ready for an unforgettable weekend at these unparalleled destinations.
Welcome to the world of peak bagging! If you have a passion for adventure, breathtaking views, and the thrill of conquering new heights, peak bagging is the perfect pursuit for you. Whether you're an avid hiker, a seasoned mountaineer, or simply someone seeking a new challenge, peak bagging offers a unique and rewarding experience. From the rugged peaks of the Himalayas to the stunning ranges of California, there are countless mountains waiting to be conquered.
