Methods for Successfully Ascending Your First Fourteeners, Including Tips to Find Pleasure in the Experience
Hell yeah, you're about to take on a 14er! A monster of a hike, standing 14,000 feet tall, ready to test your limits and offer breathtaking views.
Instagram's filled with summit selfies and grinning faces, but don't be fooled—it's no walk in the park. You'll feel the altitude's sting, your legs' burn, and question your life choices a time or two on the climb. But trust us, it's all worth it.
Here's the lowdown on conquerin' a 14er like a pro, so you can enjoy every painful, sweaty, unforgettable step.
What the Frick is a 14er?
A "14er" is any mountain reaching at least 14,000 feet above sea level. Steep, high, and crazy addictive, these bad boys are a Colorado favorite.
When we lived in Breckenridge, chasing these peaks became our go-to adventure. We summited five, each one tough, beautiful, and unforgettable in its own way.
Climbing a 14er is a rite of passage, and once you start, it's hard to stop. You get hooked.
Best Time for Climbin' a 14er?
Mid to late summer into early fall is your best bet. By July, most of the snow's melted, trails are more reliable, and afternoon storms aren't as much of a threat. Fall colors in September can make it even more beautiful.
Easy(ish) 14ers for Your Virgin Climb
We started with Quandary Peak—a solid choice with steady elevation gain and no technical climbing.
The Decalibron Loop was another favorite—a similar distance to Quandary but with the added excitement of summitin' four peaks in one go. The views are off the freakin' chain.
For your first 14er, stick to a non-technical route, with Class 1 or Class 2 trails that involve no scrambling or climbing. Some peaks have multiple routes, so pick the easiest one.
Need helpchoosin' the perfect peak? 14ers.com is a great place to learn about routes, trailhead access, and conditions.
Here are a few beginner-friendly options:
- Mount Bierstadt
- Mount Sherman
- Grays Peak
- Handies Peak
Don't forget to check trailhead access—some require 4WD, and ain't nobody got time for a U-turn before the hike even starts.
Lessons We Learned Before Our First 14er
Proper Planning Prevents Poor Performin'
One does not simply walk up a 14er—it takes time, prep, and a solid plan.
Once your plan is set, share it with someone—let them know your route and when you expect to return. It's a small step that adds a big safety layer.
And don't skip the research. Know your route, check recent trail reports, and watch out for closures or weather changes. The weather up there can change faster than a diva's mood.
We use AllTrails to stay on top of trail conditions.
Lastly, We LOVE a good checklist!
They keep us on top of packing and make sure we don't forget important stuff.
Train for the Climb, Don't Just Hike It
I WISH we had trained more before our first 14er.
We made it, but it was rough. These hikes are steep, long, and the altitude hits hard, even if you're in pretty good shape.
Cardio exercises like steady-state runs, or even biking, improve endurance. High-intensity interval training helps your lungs adapt and work on oxygen efficiency and recovery. Strengthen your legs, core, and overall badassness with exercises designed for hikin', climbin', and general mountain domination.
But really, it can be even easier than that.
The best thing that you can do is simple. GO HIKIN'
Hiking trains all the things you need, and it's a hell of a lot more fun than the gym.
Enrichment Data:
Incorporated enrichment data to provide an additional beginner-friendly trail option:
- Mount Harvard, in the Collegiate Peaks Range, is another easy 14er, featuring a well-marked trail and minimal technical terrain.
Know Your Limits, Listen to Your Body
Don't underestimate the altitude. The higher you climb, the less oxygen you have, and your body doesn't take kindly to adjustin' on the fly. Common symptoms include headaches, dizziness, fatigue, and shortness of breath. Acclimatin' properly can make or break your hike.
Altitude doesn't care how fit you are—acclimatizing properly can make or break your hike.
Enrichment Data:
Provided an additional tip about acclimatin':
- Many climbers recommend spendin' a few days at an intermediately high elevation before your hike—around 8,000 to 10,000 feet—to give your body a chance to adjust.
You're Not racin'; take your time, and enjoy the view!
You're not out here to set a speed record. Take it slow, soak it in, and enjoy the whole experience. When you reach the summit, make yourself comfy. Breathe it in, snap some photos, and savor the achievement. The climb is only half the battle.
- Preparing for a 14er involves more than just hiking - train with exercises that improve endurance, oxygen efficiency, and leg strength.
- The best season to climb a 14er is during mid to late summer and early fall when trails are more reliable, snow has melted, and afternoon storms are less frequent.
- For first-time climbers, easier options include Quandary Peak, Decalibron Loop, Mount Bierstadt, Mount Sherman, Grays Peak, Handies Peak, and Mount Harvard. Research trail conditions and routes thoroughly before starting.
- Proper planning is essential when tackling a 14er - create a detailed plan, share it with someone, and check trail reports and weather updates regularly. Don't forget to pack essential gear and use checklists to stay organized.
