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 MoreWhat's The Difference: Day Hike vs. Backpacking vs. Trekking
Embarking on an outdoor adventure is a wonderful way to disconnect from the bustling city life, reconnect with nature, and challenge yourself physically and mentally. When it comes to exploring the great outdoors, day hikes, backpacking trips, and trekking expeditions are popular choices. Each option offers a unique experience, catering to different preferences, skill levels, and time commitments.
Read MoreThere Are So Many Types of Climbing, Here They Are So You Don’t Feel Foolish Like Me
When I first started rock climbing, I assumed it was just about scrambling up rocks for fun. It wasn’t until I had been climbing for a while that I realized how many types of climbing exist. Over the past ten years, I’ve tried almost all of them (except ice climbing, which still intimidates me). Each type has unique challenges and joys, and I’ve grown to love them all for different reasons. Let me break them down so you can avoid the confusion I faced as a beginner.
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 MoreHow To Climb All The Sawatch 14ers of Colorado
My legs still burn from the 20 days I spent climbing all of the 14ers in the Sawatch Range of Colorado. Home to fifteen summits poking above 14,000 feet the Sawatch range is a paradise for mountaineers, peak baggers, and hikers, offering a condensed grouping of challenging summits to test your fitness. For me, the goal was to climb all of these peaks in a single season, but for you, it could be to break the FKT or climb one a year, that is up to you.
Read MoreJimmy Chin and Jim Morrison Return to Everest to Ski the Hornbein Couloir
In a bold and emotionally charged endeavor, renowned American ski mountaineer Jim Morrison, along with acclaimed filmmaker Jimmy Chin, is set to tackle one of the most challenging ski descents on Mount Everest: the Hornbein Couloir. This ambitious project, part of a multi-million dollar initiative funded by the National Geographic Society and The North Face, aims to pay tribute to Morrison’s late partner, Hilaree Nelson, who tragically died attempting a similar feat on Mount Manaslu in 2022.
Read MoreExperience Mount Shasta Like A Local Adventurer
Nestled in the northern reaches of California, Mount Shasta is a towering sentinel that beckons adventurers with its snow-capped peaks and rugged beauty. Standing at 14,179 feet, this dormant stratovolcano offers a diverse playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're drawn to exhilarating climbs, serene stargazing, or thrilling water activities, Mount Shasta promises an array of adventures set against a backdrop of breathtaking landscapes. In this guide, we'll explore the best ways to experience Mount Shasta like a local adventurer, ensuring you make the most of your journey to this iconic destination.
Read More12 Pro Tips for Beginner Mountaineers
Mountaineering is the ultimate test of physical endurance, mental resilience, and technical skill. For beginners, the allure of summiting a towering peak is both exhilarating and intimidating. While the journey to the top is fraught with challenges, the rewards of breathtaking views and the sense of accomplishment are unparalleled. If you're just starting your mountaineering journey, these 12 pro tips will help you prepare for the adventure ahead, ensuring you're ready to tackle the mountains with confidence and respect.
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