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Peak(s):  Grays Peak  -  14,275 feet
Torreys Peak  -  14,272 feet
Date Posted:  07/30/2014
Date Climbed:   06/27/2014
Author:  Mason Griffin
 My Son's First 14ers   

I've been hiking and climbing in Colorado (and elsewhere) for several years, enjoying a growing passion for the outdoors. We live in Dallas, so our Colorado time is limited to one trip a year, usually a week spent in Estes Park. My son Caleb (now 9) ventured higher and further over the years until my wife and I thought he was ready for the challenge of his first 14er. We set our sites on Greys and Torreys as naturals for a beginner. We stayed with relatives in Frasier the night before and rose early to get a spot at the trailhead. Caleb kept a great pace most of the day - only noticeably slowing above 13,000' - just like his dad. We enjoyed great weather all day, and we reached both summits without incident. There was still a significant amount of snow on the trail across the east face of Greys as we descended from Torreys, but they just made the day more exciting.

I was terribly impressed with my son, but I was also so thankful for all the kind words from those we met along the way. It meant a lot to him (and me) for people to offer words of encouragement and congratulations as we made our way up the peaks. I have no idea of those climbers will ever see this report, but I truly appreciate the generosity of your spirit. It made our day special and this dad incredibly proud.

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Thumbnails for uploaded photos (click to open slideshow):
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Comments or Questions
MtnHub
User
Great job, team!
7/31/2014 2:23am
And a special, double congratulations to you Caleb! Super effort for doing both of them! Can't wait to read your next trip report!


IAmtnclimber
User
Congrats!
7/31/2014 4:06am
Great job Caleb! I see many more in your future! My kids (ages 6&9) last year got their first summit. It's great to see these kids out trying what most kids wouldn't even consider doing.


dillonsarnelli
User
this is great
7/31/2014 5:53am
nice job Caleb!


summitstep
User
woohoo, caleb!
7/31/2014 1:13pm
Nice work Caleb! you look like a natural climber. Wish I could have been up there with you guys! Looking forward to your next summit pics.
CLIMB ON!!!


mtgirl
User
Proud Papa !
7/31/2014 1:38pm
Good job introducing your son to the outdoors. Sure beats video games, and he'll carry these memories forever.


TomPierce
Awesome!
8/1/2014 12:58am
Go get 'em Caleb!!


rescuemonkey
Keep going!!
8/1/2014 1:56am
This is great! My father and I climbed our first 14er in 1990. We just completed all of them this past monday on North Maroon. The bond you will create is incredible! I hope he stays interested.


nedryarson
User
Congrats!
8/1/2014 4:52pm
And sic em Bears


rickinco123
User
Nice work Caleb!
8/1/2014 7:58pm
The memories will last a life time.


ROCK HOPPER
Great job guys.
8/24/2014 6:58am
Here's to many more!


dj14
User
Well done!
9/15/2014 4:39pm
Outstanding Caleb! Congratulations to you both!


Mason Griffin
Thanks
9/16/2014 12:54am
Thanks for all the kind words. I've loved showing my son these messages as they've popped up over the last few months. Always puts a smile on his face...and fires him up for some more peaks!!!



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