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All tagged Peak Bagging
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 preparing to climb a 14er, you might assume that mountaineering boots are a must. I did too—at first. For my first few fourteeners, I strapped on heavy, clunky mountaineering boots because that’s what I thought the terrain demanded. But as I gained experience, I realized that boots are often overkill for most 14er climbs. In fact, approach shoes or trail running shoes are usually better options. These lighter alternatives offer comfort, flexibility, and the ability to move quickly—qualities that are often more important than the rigid support of traditional boots.
When I first started rock climbing, I assumed it was just about scrambling up rocks for fun. It wasn’t until I had been climbing for a while that I realized how many types of climbing exist. Over the past ten years, I’ve tried almost all of them (except ice climbing, which still intimidates me). Each type has unique challenges and joys, and I’ve grown to love them all for different reasons. Let me break them down so you can avoid the confusion I faced as a beginner.
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.
Sedona, Arizona, is a dream destination for outdoor adventurers, offering an array of breathtaking landscapes and thrilling activities. Nestled amidst the stunning red rock formations of Northern Arizona, Sedona is a hub for hiking, rock climbing, stargazing, and much more. Whether you’re an experienced adventurer or just getting started, Sedona provides the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable outdoor experience.
Nestled in the northern reaches of California, Mount Shasta is a towering sentinel that beckons adventurers with its snow-capped peaks and rugged beauty. Standing at 14,179 feet, this dormant stratovolcano offers a diverse playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're drawn to exhilarating climbs, serene stargazing, or thrilling water activities, Mount Shasta promises an array of adventures set against a backdrop of breathtaking landscapes. In this guide, we'll explore the best ways to experience Mount Shasta like a local adventurer, ensuring you make the most of your journey to this iconic destination.
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:
For the thrill-seekers, outdoor lovers, photographers, and overall rad humans, California unveils a realm of exhilarating adventures and breathtaking landscapes that go far beyond the typical tourist trail. Fake cough... fake cough... I'm talking about the thought of California as a big long sandy beach. There is a ton more! From the tallest peak in the lower 48 to capturing the perfect shot of a cascading waterfall, California can be a dream destination for anyone. Here are five iconic California vacations that will satisfy your craving for both adrenaline and awe-inspiring scenery.
Ladies and gentlemen, adventurers and connoisseurs, welcome to the most epic high-altitude showdown of all time! We've gathered here today on the majestic summit of Mount Booze, where we'll engage in a high-spirited debate over the three most iconic beverages: whiskey, tequila, and beer. As we sip and savor, we'll explore the pros and cons of each and determine which one truly reigns supreme at the top of the world.
Colorado's Sawatch Range boasts some of the most iconic peaks in the Rockies, challenging adventurers with steep ascents and breathtaking views. For those seeking to conquer these majestic 14ers, the Altra Lone Peak 8 trail running shoe is a game-changer. Designed for versatility and performance, this shoe is the perfect companion for tackling rugged terrain while maintaining comfort and agility.
