1. By Julie Abrahams 1

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3. Find a group of friends, family orstrangers that will make the ascent with you. 3

4. Find at least 1 person who is experienced with hiking 14ers. 4

5. Discuss with your friends/family or find a group on MeetUp.com to join. 5

6. Set a date and pick a mountain to conquer! (Hover over the calendar and the mountain to learn more.) 6

7. Pick a date that works for everyone in the group. 14er season is typically between July and August when the snow has melted. 7

8. Pick a mountain to summit. 8 Based on the fitness level and experience of the group, pick a mountain to summit. Level 1 is best for novice climbers.

9. Map out the ascent using 14er.com and bring it with you. 9

10. Map out the driving route to the 14er so you can set a departure time. Remember that you need to summit by noon to ensure you don’t get caught in a thunderstorm! 10

11. Prepare your backpack, clothing, and other supplies. 11

12. Get hiking boots. Make sure they are comfortable with good stability. Also get a pair of hiking socks (wool, not cotton). 12

13. Pack your backpack. (Hover over an item to learn more.) 13

14. Bring at least 2-4 liters of water. Pack your backpack. (Hover over an item to learn more.) 14

15. Food such as: Cliff Bars, nuts, fruit, and Cliff Gel Blocks Pack your backpack. (Hover over an item to learn more.) 15

16. Sunblock is essential (Hover over an item to learn more.) Pack your backpack. 16

17. Blisters are very common while hiking, so be prepared with a blister kit. Pack your backpack. (Hover over an item to learn more.) 17

18. Hiking poles improve your stability and elevate strain on your knees. Pack your backpack. (Hover over an item to learn more.) 18

19. You never know when you might need a first aid kit, so be prepared. Pack your backpack. (Hover over an item to learn more.) 19

20. An extra pair of hiking socks is good to have in case your socks get wet (which causes blisters). Pack your backpack. (Hover over an item to learn more.) 20

21. There is cell phone service at the top of most 14ers, so bring it! A camera is key—take lots of pictures. Pack your backpack. (Hover over an item to learn more.) 21

22. Your map of the route is helpful so that you do not miss the path. Pack your backpack. (Hover over an item to learn more.) 22

23. Clothing for the hike. 23 Dress in dry-wicking layers since the temperature will be drastically different between the trailhead and summit. Other items: raincoat, sunglasses, hat, gloves.

24. Two days before, start drinking plenty of water. 24

25. Get plenty of rest the night before. You will most likely be getting up very early in the morning. 25

26. Trailhead: 26 At the trailhead that morning put on your gear. Your group is now ready to set out. Pace yourselves; hike at a pace where you can hold a conversation.

27. Climb the 14er and enjoy the breathtaking views! 27

28. At the summit: 28 Enjoy the summit when you get there! Take tons of pictures and eat a snack. Make sure you begin your descent by noon to avoid storms.

29. Congratulations on climbing a 14er! 29