Comparing the Colorado and California 14ers
California & Colorado are home to the vast majority of the 14,000 foot peaks in the lower 48. Between the two states, 70 named or ranked peaks exceed 14,000 feet that you can hike and [...]
Dispersed Camping Near 14ers | A Guide to the Best Way to Camp
There are many ways to camp in Colorado's public lands. Many people think first of family camping in campgrounds, popular in state and national parks. However, campgrounds involve fighting for a spot, permits & fees, [...]
Risk Management isn’t Fear. It’s Smart.
As COVID-19 continues to spread, many are pushing to re-open mountain communities and end Stay-At-Home orders. One of the most consistent themes I see from this group is a focus on fear. From their perspective, [...]
4 Reasons to Climb a Colorado 13er Instead of a 14er
There are 58 named 14ers in Colorado, yet they still get crowded in the summer months. Reports show they continue to get busier each year, with the Front Range in particular attracting thousands annually. The [...]
What Mountaineering Can Teach You About Surviving This Pandemic
As COVID-19 forces us to remain at home, I can't help but dream about the mountains and 14ers I miss. However, as I do, I've realized that mountaineering has a lot to teach us about [...]
After Aconcagua, Patricia Ackerman Set Her Sight on Her Next Summit: Congress
For Patricia, there was never a clear moment she decided to become a mountaineer. She said, "It was really an evolution. I was hiking, and then backpacking, and then trekking, and then high-altitude trekking, and [...]
Here’s Why Driving to the Mountains Right Now Is a Bad Idea
Over the past 72 hours, many of the mountainous regions in the Western US have declared some kind of Shelter-in-place order, encouraging residents to stay home and avoid unnecessary travel. In light of these developments, [...]
Coronavirus and 14ers: Should I Still Hike & Climb?
UPDATE: On March 26, Colorado issued a Stay At Home Order. I strongly urge readers to follow recommendations of the city of Denver and avoid travelling to the mountains for the time being. Instead, take [...]
Stop Unleashing Your Poorly Trained Dogs on 14ers
On a warm summer day in the Southern Colony Lakes Basin, I remember making my morning coffee just after leaving my tent. I sat with a steaming cup and stared at the Crestones above. I'd [...]
Your Poor Decision-Making Puts Search & Rescue at Risk!
Mountaineering is inherently risky - but there is general agreement that you can mitigate a lot of it with the right gear and experience. However, some climbers always decide that they like the risk, and [...]