3 Eye-Opening Lessons From My First Colorado 14er

If you enjoy hiking in Colorado, it may not be long before you get the urge to take on one of the 14er mountains scattered around the state. Most beginners start with Mount Bierstadt, Mount Sherman, or maybe Greys and Torreys Peaks.

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I recently had the chance to hike my first Colorado 14er this fall and while I loved the experience, nothing about this hike was easy. Keep reading to check out some great photos, and three light-hearted lessons I learned while hiking to the top of Mount Bierstadt.

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Hiking 14ers in September

While summer is a great time of year to hike a 14er in Colorado, you'll have more time to spend on the mountain in September. Following the monsoon season, the hiking days grow longer, the temps are cooler, and the fall colors make the trip even more special. You can even make an afternoon summit and enjoy the sunset on your way down.

Why Mount Bierstadt Is Known as Mount Walmart

Even at 5:30 in the morning there are more parked cars at the base of Mount Bierstadt than at the busiest Walmart in Colorado. I was driving Guanella Pass at 5 am and only saw 2 other cars. That's because we were the last 2 people to get there. O.M.G.

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There is no 'Easy' 14er

The first time you hike 2,700 feet of gain in three miles, you will feel it. The more time you spend above 13,000 feet the more you feel it. It's not easy the first time you do it. "Easy" refers to the route. It's easy to find, and easy to hike without special equipment. If you love hiking and love the mountains, I encourage you to go for it. I loved the experience even with a bad back and bad knees.