Mount Massive, Colorado’s second-highest peak, is the often overlooked step-sibling to the highest peak in Colorado, Mount Elbert, just across the valley. However, climbing this iconic mountain comes with its challenges, and mistakes can quickly turn an enjoyable trek into a tough lesson. Based on personal experiences, here are the top mistakes to avoid when tackling Mount Massive, so you can have a safer and more rewarding adventure.
Read MoreWhat You Need to Know About Timing Your 14er Ascent
Climbing a 14er—a peak with an elevation of at least 14,000 feet—is a bucket-list adventure for many hikers. However, timing your ascent is crucial for a safe and successful climb. Starting too late can put you at risk of thunderstorms, heat, and other hazards that can turn an enjoyable hike into a dangerous situation. Here’s what you need to know about timing your 14er adventure.
Read MoreWhich 14er Should You Tackle First; Mount Massive vs. Mount of the Holy Cross
Colorado is home to some of the most iconic 14ers in the United States, and Mount Massive and Mount of the Holy Cross are two standout peaks in the Sawatch Range. If you’re deciding which to climb first, this guide will help you compare the two peaks based on difficulty, scenery, logistics, and the best times to climb.
Read MoreMount Massive’s False Summit Is Heartbreaking
Waking up later than planned, I crawled out of my van with a packed bag, fueled by coffee and laced-up boots. Clicking my Coros watch to start recording my trek, I set off down the trail for a car-to-car push of Mount Massive. As Colorado's second-highest peak, I felt nervous but confident I could summit in good time. My legs were still sore from climbing Mount of the Holy Cross just a few days before, another challenging 14er in Colorado’s Sawatch Range.
Read MoreGetting Altitude Sickness Changed My Mind On Climbing 14ers Solo
When I first started my peak-bagging journey, I was obsessed with climbing 14ers. Living in California gave me some great options, but nowhere near the variety Colorado offers. The flipside? Not as many people in California are chasing those 14,000-foot summits. In Colorado, the peaks are buzzing with climbers.
After my first few successful summits in California, I felt invincible. I tackled these mountains car-to-car and stuck to routes no harder than Class 4. Climbing solo felt completely fine—until the day I experienced altitude sickness.
Read MoreThe Final Uphill on Mount of the Holy Cross Will Defeat You
When Kristin and I decided to road trip from California to Colorado to climb all the Sawatch 14ers, we had no idea the challenges that awaited us. Starting north to south, Mount of the Holy Cross was our first peak—a trial by fire for Kristin’s first 14er and a humbling reminder of the demands of high-altitude climbs for me.
Read MoreEverything You Need To Know To Summit Mount of the Holy Cross
Mount of the Holy Cross is a striking 14er located in Colorado's Sawatch Range, known for its unique snow-filled cross on the northeast face, which gives the peak its name. At 14,005 feet, the climb offers breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment for those who summit it. Here’s everything you need to know to prepare for your climb:
Read MoreLast Minute Adventures Before School Starts
As summer winds down and the first day of school looms closer, there's still time to squeeze in some last-minute adventures with the family. Whether you're looking to explore nature, embark on a road trip, or find exciting outdoor activities, here are some fantastic family travel ideas to make the most of the remaining summer days.
Read More9 Dreamy Snowshoeing Destinations
Winter's arrival doesn't mean you have to stay indoors. In fact, it's the perfect time to embrace the great outdoors and embark on a snowshoeing adventure. Snowshoeing is an accessible and enjoyable winter activity suitable for individuals of all ages and fitness levels. If you're searching for the perfect snowshoeing destination, you're in the right place. In this article, we'll guide you to some of the most captivating snowshoeing locations across the United States and Canada.
Read MoreYour Guide to the Most Luxurious Ski Destinations This Winter
As the first snowflakes delicately fall and the mountains transform into a pristine white canvas, winter enthusiasts from around the globe eagerly anticipate the enchantment of the season.
But for those who yearn for that perfect blend of thrilling days on the slopes and pampered nights in luxurious lodgings, winter is more than just a season; it's an invitation to embark on a captivating journey to some of the world's most exquisite ski destinations that seamlessly weave adventure and opulence into a single tapestry.
From the rugged mountains of Montana to the charming chalet villages of Switzerland, let's dive into the ski havens that promise the ultimate fusion of skiing and indulgent accommodations this winter.
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