Author: EL
A 14er, or "fourteener", is a mountain at least 14,000 feet (4,267 meters) above sea level (thanks Gemini). 14ers have become a popular activity for many newcomers in the state of Colorado which is home to 58 of these peaks.
This past weekend some friends and I enjoyed a hike up one of the friendliest, Mt Sherman.
(The lads take on Mt. Sherman photo by @Sergio Hernandez)
Activity Recs
Use Alltrails navigation as your guide - and don’t forget to record your activity on Strava - I’m loving this app for tracking all activities especially if you have wearable tech.
Mt. Sherman is an ideal first 14er for newcomers to Colorado. It’s doable in a half-day and located within striking distance from Denver allowing hikers to make it a full-day trip or book a cabin for the weekend near Fairplay.
Begin the hike early in the morning as inclement weather can roll into these higher peaks in the afternoon. Most recommend starting by 8am as this trail will take 3+ hours.
Pack snacks/lunch, plenty of water (3L), and multiple layers (jackets, gloves/hat, cozy items, oxygen for out-of-staters). Oh, and hiking poles if you have old folk knees like me. 14ers put hikers in the precarious position of being hot or cold minute to minute. Better to overpack and carry the weight than underpack and find yourself in The Shining.
The hike is a slow grind as you ascend a steep grade of nearly 2,000 feet. The grade, as expected, is steepest near the peak. Don’t be a diesel engine. Keep your energy output sustainable so you’re strongest when you need it!
Mt. Sherman is a wonderland for loose rock and old mining artifacts. What it lacks in greenery, it makes up for in panoramic views. These views are available for the entire climb and descent of the mountain.
14ers are certified type 2 fun (see fun scale). Hikers aren’t necessarily enjoying themselves during the climb, but they’re retroactively happy and inspired by doing it. They provide a wonderful story to reminisce over with your adventure companions (don’t attempt 14ers alone).
Snack Recs
Sour Gummy Worms - Top 5 summit snack. It counts as healthy because you need the sugar after all that exertion, right?
Chomps Meat Stick - This brand is exploding and I’m joining the wave as Chomps provides a protein punch during breaks along the journey.
Almonds - Fat and protein. Almonds saved me from a crash near the peak of Sherman.
Organic Pop-Roasted Sunflower Seeds | (Dark Cacao Sea Salt) - A cheap, sustainable, satiating, tasty snack.
(Mt. Sherman ascent views photo by @Sergio Hernandez)
Song Rec:
Hardlight - Spacey Jane
This song sounds like it belongs in Ted Lasso. I found this tune grabbing a bite in Barcelona as Shazam worked its magic through the crowd noise. Check out the band, too.
Podcast Rec:
Global New Podcast - BBC - It’s difficult to stay up-to-date with world news. This pod provides a strong 30-minute summary daily of what’s happening across the globe. They also have a happy pod every weekend, their version of some good news.
Quote to consider:
“Genius is one percent inspiration and ninety-nine percent perspiration.” - Thomas Edison