How to Climb a 14er
Prepare your route., Gather all your supplies the day before you attempt the climb., Notify someone of your trip and estimated time of return., Leave early to give yourself enough time to complete the trip and avoid hazardous weather., When hiking...
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Prepare your route.
Make sure the trail you plan to follow is within your hiking and endurance capabilities.
Check the weather report for the day you plan to hike.
Try to be off the peak as early as possible to avoid afternoon thunderstorms and lightning. -
Step 2: Gather all your supplies the day before you attempt the climb.
You may be trying to summit in one day or take a multi-day backpacking trip.
Either way, ensure you have proper equipment and survival gear. , Provide specifics including: vehicle make, model and license number; who you are traveling with; trailhead; and planned route. , Lightning is especially hazardous above treeline.
Storms have a greater chance of forming in the afternoon.
Plan to descend below treeline as early in the day as possible. , If possible, take a break only every 30 minutes.
Don't rush at the start and be sure to give yourself enough water breaks. , The lightheadedness is from a lack of oxygen to your brain.
Resting will make more blood available for your noggin'. ,,, Be careful not to run and trip.
The downward hike is often more strenuous on the legs and feet than hiking uphill. ,, -
Step 3: Notify someone of your trip and estimated time of return.
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Step 4: Leave early to give yourself enough time to complete the trip and avoid hazardous weather.
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Step 5: When hiking
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Step 6: try to keep a steady pace.
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Step 7: Above 12
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Step 8: 000' (or lower if you're not acclimated) stop and rest for a few minutes if you feel lightheaded.
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Step 9: Enjoy the view at the top and sign the logbook (if available) as a record of your success.
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Step 10: Observe the weather and return to tree line before hazardous weather approaches.
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Step 11: Keep a steady pace on the descent.
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Step 12: Return to the trail head before dark
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Step 13: or be sure to carry a flashlight or headlamp.
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Step 14: Brag to your friends about your success (or try again another day).
Detailed Guide
Make sure the trail you plan to follow is within your hiking and endurance capabilities.
Check the weather report for the day you plan to hike.
Try to be off the peak as early as possible to avoid afternoon thunderstorms and lightning.
You may be trying to summit in one day or take a multi-day backpacking trip.
Either way, ensure you have proper equipment and survival gear. , Provide specifics including: vehicle make, model and license number; who you are traveling with; trailhead; and planned route. , Lightning is especially hazardous above treeline.
Storms have a greater chance of forming in the afternoon.
Plan to descend below treeline as early in the day as possible. , If possible, take a break only every 30 minutes.
Don't rush at the start and be sure to give yourself enough water breaks. , The lightheadedness is from a lack of oxygen to your brain.
Resting will make more blood available for your noggin'. ,,, Be careful not to run and trip.
The downward hike is often more strenuous on the legs and feet than hiking uphill. ,,
About the Author
Deborah Kennedy
Professional writer focused on creating easy-to-follow hobbies tutorials.
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