Various Questions from Someone Living Sea Level

[cpb145]

Hi Kara! So what's the longest hike you've been on before? Elbert is technically pretty easy, but I found it to be quite a haul (I measured 9.2 miles RT) and somewhat gruelling with the insane elevation gain.... one of the biggest gains to be had at 4,700'+. This was my 8th peak, and I was still very challenged. Elbert will however be much easier on your pups paws than either a Quandary or a Sherman though. Your RAV 4 will be fine getting to the TH, it's actually probably the easiest out of the 3, albeit your car would still make the other 2 without an issue. Just bring plenty of water for both you and the dogs and get an early start....you could be looking at a 6-8hr day on Elbert depending on your pace, whereas a Sherman may take half that time or less. Just remember that slow and steady wins the race. And hit that stair machine! Elbert is equivalent to taking the stairs on the tallest building in the world up and down 2 1/2 times! Good luck with whatever you go for!

[the toninator]

If i really think i need some strenght training, i'll put my full backpack on (30+lbs) and head to Elenore Tinsley park at Sabine bridge. You can do a clover leaf up/down and around and never have to cross traffic. I'll do this for a few hours.

[glenmiz]

You've had lots of good advice on peak choice so I won't repeat that. Here is a trip report from a couple who came in from DC and had a great time in the Colorado high country. There are several good pieces of advice that are worth noting.

http://14ers.com/php14ers/tripreport.ph ... ki=Include" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

I lived in Houston for 13 years in three stints and have now been in Colorado for 13 years. You'll enjoy your first 14er and, I'm quite certain, will be back for more. Enjoy your trip.

[Sean Nunn]

I would give the dogs a few days at altitude before trying a 14er. Make they are handling it OK. Just a suggestion from someone who once helped carry a 70 pound dog that was sick down the side of Columbia. (Great story there.)

Sean Nunn
Raytown, MO

[Kara454]

Well, we did it!!! I made the climb on Thursday (a day later than originally planned, but somehow some of my gear went up missing in the middle of the trip..and still has not been found...whoops)

The altitude did not affect me at all surprisingly, in fact, I was holding up better than most of the people out there. I was breathing the same that I did at the trailhead. I took to the hike easily and now am looking forward to more when I get a chance. The amount of walking though took the biggest toll on me, I shattered my left foot a few years ago and it was hurting fairly badly during the descent. Here are some pictures from the day:

[acidchylde]

Congrats! Head tilt in every shot, I love it! :D

[Kara454]

Lol they are trained to pose for pictures!

[cpb145]

Great job! And good looking pups!

[Wundermarmot]

Congrats on your first 14er, and good looking pups!