Things to Know When Hiking Your First Fourteener 

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mt-evans-colorado-p1020561
Mt. Evans

The state of Colorado has a total of fifty-three 14ers. Fourteeners are any mountain above 14,000 feet – or 46.6 football fields! If part of your Colorado adventure includes summiting one of these beautiful peaks, we’ve got you covered.  

One of the most important parts of these treks is preparation. Make sure to bring the essentials. Sturdy shoes or hiking boots, layered clothing and sunglasses are very important. If possible, avoid cotton; once you start sweating or it starts raining, cotton won’t dry and it may even make you colder. Colorado weather can change in an instant, and while it may be sweltering hot at the base of the mountain, the thin air at the summit will be a different story. Make sure to check the weather, but don’t rely on it. Thunderstorms and sunshine can trade off all day whether it is predicted or not.  

mt elbert
Mt. Elbert

It is also important to bring sunscreen. The higher the altitude, the greater the risk of sunburn will be. It is also crucial to bring food and plenty of water. The elevation change can be tough and staying dehydrated is the last thing you want to have to worry about. Remember to tell someone what your plans are and where you will be going. Being prepared will make your trip even better.   

Summit County and the Vail Valley are the perfect places to stay if you’re going to cross hiking a fourteener off the bucket list. Getting from the airport close to the busy city to the mountains is easy with Peak 1 Express. Greys, Torreys, and Quandary are all a short drive from the Summit County area, and Mount of the Holy Cross is close to Vail and Beaver Creek. No matter which mountain you summit or what kind of hike you take, Colorado’s astounding views and beauty will surround you.