Climbing Partner

[ztdmorgan]

Hey all –
I’m Zac Morgan, based out of Arkansas, and I’m working my way through Colorado’s 14ers. I’ve completed Grays, Torreys, Quandary, Democrat, Lincoln, and Bross so far, and now I’m looking to get more strategic—progressing into more technical terrain over time.

I come from an endurance background (ultras, mountain running, etc.), so I’m comfortable with big efforts, long days, and fast elevation gain. Sometimes I’ve got full weekends and full weekdays—but I try to maximize every outing.

I’ll be available to head out in early June and most of August, and I’m actively looking for someone to hike or climb with on any of the more involved routes. Right now I’m looking at the Crestones and Blanca Group, but open to anything that makes logistical sense with my current list. I’m cool with camping out or hiking back to base camp.

1. Humboldt Peak – Class 2
2. Crestone Needle – Class 3 (Class 4 via traverse)
3. Crestone Peak – Class 3
4. Kit Carson Peak – Class 3
5. Challenger Point – Class 2


If you’re looking for a reliable, motivated partner—or just have some beta to share—I’d really appreciate the connection.

– Zac

[randalmartin]

You have just gotten started, I wouldn't include Crestone Peak/Needle on your list yet. You have an entire range of Sawatch peaks you haven't done that require little to no planning and are mostly on trail. Why don't you do those next, don't even need a partner.

[ztdmorgan]

Thanks for the help. I like the Sangre Range really. That’s all. I enjoy the challenge and am looking to grow my experience.

I will look into the Sawatch Range more and see what I can chew off.

[kyrawhitworth]

Thanks for the help. I like the Sangre Range really. That’s all. I enjoy the challenge and am looking to grow my experience.

I will look into the Sawatch Range more and see what I can chew off.

My husband absolutely loves the Sangres so I get it

Humboldt you'll have no issues with so I'd say do that one first logistically. Blanca and Ellingwood I would recommend doing from Lake Como as a combo backpacking 1 night at Lake Como and returning to the Blanca saddle vs the loose nasty that is descending Ellingwood. The route finding is straightforward using the great route descriptions. I would recommend having partners for KC/Challenger and would also recommend camping at Willow Lake for those. Those four are accessed from the same side of the Sangres which is nice too. Crestones I'd say save for the end of your trip after experiencing the less technical Sangres peaks and see how you feel. You can do those from either side of the range.

I would also duplicate this post in the climbing connection forum--you may have better luck there for connecting with partners!

[mtree]

I agree with posting on the climbing connections closer to your hiking date(s).

They're all doable and with a good climbing partner you'll probably be fine. As always, if you find yourself in an uncomfortable situation, you can always back off. Just know what's uncomfortable.

[seannunn]

You have just gotten started, I wouldn't include Crestone Peak/Needle on your list yet. You have an entire range of Sawatch peaks you haven't done that require little to no planning and are mostly on trail. Why don't you do those next, don't even need a partner.

+1. At the very, very least, do the Crestones last, without the traverse.

Sean Nunn
Peculiar, MO