Mt. Elbert Trip Report 07/05/2016

Peak(s):	Mt. Elbert - 14,438 feet
Date Posted:	07/05/2016
Date Climbed:	07/05/2016
Author:	Rob Wood

Elbert - Northeast Ridge
My hope this morning was that the day after a holiday would mean fewer people on the trail. Add to that an early 3:30 start, and I had the trail to myself (at least on my way up). I also think hiking a couple hours in the dark helped my pace, as I wasn't sure how fast I was going, and definitely had no idea of the trail incline. I was well above tree line when the sun crested the mountains to the east and I took a moment to enjoy the incredible sight. The wind picked up considerably in the morning, and was biting cold not far above tree line. I am very grateful I had an extra (and heavy) coat to put on. As I continued up, "snow bbs" (has to be a more official name, but I don't know it) started pelting me (and drizzle on the way down). Let me preface the next two paragraphs by stating that this morning was only my third 14er this summer, so I still feel like a newbie. And so speaking to those who have yet to climb Mount Elbert, but planning to do so, please take heed of previous advice to be aware that there are three false peaks, and the first one is by far the most demoralizing. It is a combination of being the peak we all see after tree line, it has the only boulder field (although still a defined trail) which is more difficult than the rest of the trail, and as one finally passes it, the real peak seems much further away than expected. HOWEVER, the rest of the climb, even over the other false peaks, is not nearly as demanding, and passes much quicker than expected, so be strong and push through any "demoralizing" challenge. I will also use this moment to implore all fellow 14er newbies to be prepared. On my way down, I was surprised at the number of a number of ill-prepared hikers. One group in shorts and t-shirts (although I'm sure their youthful exuberance helped then as it was still bitter cold), many others not much better. Seemed like so many thought it was nothing more than a day hike (especially late starters). While I know trail runners can peak multiple 14ers in a day, for the rest of us newbies there needs to be some level of preparation if reaching the summit is a true desire. I know this has been discussed ad naseum on this site, and I know it probably belongs in the forum - but in hopes of catching someone new, I'm saying it anyway, and after my experience today, it really made me want to add my two cents. Back to the hike: While the weather encouraged me to only stay on the peak 15 minutes, there is always something beyond words standing atop a 14er. 'nuff said. I was pleased to meet many people on my way down, and a number of them seemed to enjoy stopping for a moment to talk. Both locals and visitors alike. As I reached tree line, the warm sun forced me to shed my heavier coat, which made me happy for the rest still making their way to the top. While Elbert may not be considered as difficult as others (remember, there are no "easy" 14ers), little to no exposure and all, it is still very special to stand atop the highest peak in Colorado, and I am very grateful to have experienced that today. Three down, Fifty-Five to go!

Elbert - Northeast Ridge

My hope this morning was that the day after a holiday would mean fewer people on the trail. Add to that an early 3:30 start, and I had the trail to myself (at least on my way up). I also think hiking a couple hours in the dark helped my pace, as I wasn't sure how fast I was going, and definitely had no idea of the trail incline. I was well above tree line when the sun crested the mountains to the east and I took a moment to enjoy the incredible sight.

The wind picked up considerably in the morning, and was biting cold not far above tree line. I am very grateful I had an extra (and heavy) coat to put on. As I continued up, "snow bbs" (has to be a more official name, but I don't know it) started pelting me (and drizzle on the way down).

Let me preface the next two paragraphs by stating that this morning was only my third 14er this summer, so I still feel like a newbie. And so speaking to those who have yet to climb Mount Elbert, but planning to do so, please take heed of previous advice to be aware that there are three false peaks, and the first one is by far the most demoralizing. It is a combination of being the peak we all see after tree line, it has the only boulder field (although still a defined trail) which is more difficult than the rest of the trail, and as one finally passes it, the real peak seems much further away than expected. HOWEVER, the rest of the climb, even over the other false peaks, is not nearly as demanding, and passes much quicker than expected, so be strong and push through any "demoralizing" challenge.

I will also use this moment to implore all fellow 14er newbies to be prepared. On my way down, I was surprised at the number of a number of ill-prepared hikers. One group in shorts and t-shirts (although I'm sure their youthful exuberance helped then as it was still bitter cold), many others not much better. Seemed like so many thought it was nothing more than a day hike (especially late starters). While I know trail runners can peak multiple 14ers in a day, for the rest of us newbies there needs to be some level of preparation if reaching the summit is a true desire. I know this has been discussed ad naseum on this site, and I know it probably belongs in the forum - but in hopes of catching someone new, I'm saying it anyway, and after my experience today, it really made me want to add my two cents.

Back to the hike: While the weather encouraged me to only stay on the peak 15 minutes, there is always something beyond words standing atop a 14er. 'nuff said.

I was pleased to meet many people on my way down, and a number of them seemed to enjoy stopping for a moment to talk. Both locals and visitors alike. As I reached tree line, the warm sun forced me to shed my heavier coat, which made me happy for the rest still making their way to the top.

While Elbert may not be considered as difficult as others (remember, there are no "easy" 14ers), little to no exposure and all, it is still very special to stand atop the highest peak in Colorado, and I am very grateful to have experienced that today. Three down, Fifty-Five to go!

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