Grays and Torrey's Peaks
It was the summer of my 21st birthday & I had been dreaming of climbing my first 14er all winter long. It's amazing how quickly the idea of climbing one of these majestic peaks had grown from a small seed to a thought consuming desire to stand at the top. Born and raised in Colorado and having grown up hiking I had yet to set foot on a 14er. The dream of climbing these beasts had always been mine and now with several friends in tow we turned off on the Bakerville exit and slowly headed up the bumpy dirt road towards the Gray Peak Trailhead.
In the darkened shadows of the car we pondered what lie ahead and hoped we were all up for the task at hand. The mountains surrounding us loomed large but nothing compared to the seemingly endless heights of Grays and Torreys Peaks. Hefting our packs on and with Melody in tow we began our 8+ mile trek in the smoldering fog and early morning light. On many of these trails, especially the more common peaks, you are never alone and we passed countless other hikers along the way.
Top 5 Tips for Climbing 14ers:
- Always take plenty of protein based food and water.
- Bananas or potassium bites are vital to eliminate a headache or sickness from the elevation.
- The weather changes in an instant on these peaks, start early and be off the peak before the afternoon thunderstorms hit.
- Wear layers! As with anything in Colorado you never know what that day will bring.
- Bring along some Ibuprofen or Aspirin. I always take one before I hit the trail and once I am back to car, eliminates headaches and soreness.
The community of people found in these secluded mountain regions, all working towards the same goal creates a bond among you. Along these trails I have met people who were climbing their first 14er and people that were climbing their 48th 14er. Sharing stories of your favorite trips and your most intense moments on these elusive Colorado peaks will always be one of my favorite parts of these adventures.
Climbing Buddies
Back on the trail we clamored our way up the mountain side, breathless in our efforts. The sun peaked over the opposing mountainside and we gasped as it lit up the scenery. The nearby mountain stream was music to our ears and the ponds ahead were cold and crystal clear. Soon after this point the trail becomes steeper and rocks jut out in every which way. The trail conditions for both peaks are well worn and there is never a point were you risk loosing the trail. With the peaks in full view the magnitude is daunting and it feels doubtful that reaching the top is a possibility. There were moments where putting one foot in front the other is all your thinking about. Slowly, ever so slowly you gain elevation and looking up you find to your astonishment that your almost to the top! Since this first climb, I have had the opportunity to climb additional peaks in Colorado, every one of them just as majestic as the last.
The elation as you take those last few steps and finally, finally you are there. On top of the world it feels and the surrounding expanse is breathtaking and limitless. It is here you realize it was worth the work, the planning and the preparation to able to do something as BIG as this. Grinning from ear to ear, with the breeze in your face and the sun warming your back you realize this is a moment you will never forget. Whats next?
- Kathryn