Finishers - why so many

[peter303]

Another reason: They want to finish before the new National Geoid raises sea level under Colorado by two feet. I dont think any 14ers will disappear when they shrink two feet. Mt. Sunshine was near the brink.

The new geoid uses uses more satellite altitude and gravity data to define sea level than the previous 1980s geoid which was based on land triangulation surveys.

[JChitwood]

Don't forget those with zero rock climbing skills getting top roped to the summit of more technical peaks that they otherwise never could have climbed using their own skill sets and experiences. Way easier to finish Cents, Bicents, all 13ers if you have a rope gun doing all the work for you.

For sure but many skilled climbers enjoy helping fellow climbers get to a summit they couldn’t on their own. Much like I hiked Bierstadt with a neighbor who would never have done it otherwise. Most of us have done something similar.

[JROSKA]

Seems to me like there’s so much focus on “getting ‘em done fast”. For whatever reason. So if the goal of most climbers is to finish the list in a year or two, as opposed to making it a lifetime goal, that will naturally lead to an increase in the amount of finishers.

[cougar]

People have nothing better to do

[Wildernessjane]

Don't forget those with zero rock climbing skills getting top roped to the summit of more technical peaks that they otherwise never could have climbed using their own skill sets and experiences. Way easier to finish Cents, Bicents, all 13ers if you have a rope gun doing all the work for you.

You don’t need a rope for the highest 200.

While yes, you can climb them all without a rope my guess is that on Dallas, Teakettle, and Jagged you see more roped parties than un-roped

Same with Peak Fifteen. Maybe not “needed” but I don’t think I would’ve enjoyed down-climbing that one. The rock quality is absolute crap. To each his own though.

[d_baker]

Don't forget those with zero rock climbing skills getting top roped to the summit of more technical peaks that they otherwise never could have climbed using their own skill sets and experiences. Way easier to finish Cents, Bicents, all 13ers if you have a rope gun doing all the work for you.

You don’t need a rope for the highest 200.

While yes, you can climb them all without a rope my guess is that on Dallas, Teakettle, and Jagged you see more roped parties than un-roped

My opinion is that the vast majority of folks going after the Top 200 will use a rope on at least 2 if not 3 of those peaks and most likely more (or at least have a rope and gear with them).
Coxcomb (though I haven't climbed it yet) and Pk 15 are two high probables, as well as Dallas (at least for a rap) and probably Teakettle (again for at least a rap).
Vestal via Wham isn't too difficult to ascend without a rope if your head space is dialed and you're comfortable with that type of climbing, because the most common descent is the S face which is what class 2+ or 3 if on route?
Anyway, unless you're CaptEgo, and the use of a rope is not beneath you, by all means carry and use a rope on peaks you think you'll be safer on.

For those that are trying to complete THEIR list, whether you gain the skills and experience to lead the tougher ones on your own, or a friend leads you, or a guide, just do it because you should do it the way you feel most comfortable and safe. It's your goal.
Some folks prefer their style over others (e.g, learning the ropes and skills) but I don't think that style makes their list better than someone that doesn't go that way.

As for the original post, there have been years on this forum where there's a couple of finishers a week! Ebbs and flows. Some years it seems slower. I didn't vote in the poll.

[Matt]

Social media, transplants, and learned helplessness overcome by dependence on tech.

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[jfm3]

Social media, transplants, and learned helplessness overcome by dependence on tech.
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I suddenly sense a great business opportunity. Send them to Mt. Quandry and then we can use the money to make Trinchera Ranch an offer they can't refuse for Mt. Lindsey. Tell Captain Telsa that's it's an in-kind donation.

[SkaredShtles]

This poll is an abject failure, as it has neither a "bacon" nor a "beer" option.

[E_A_Marcus_949]

If people are finishing and want to celebrate, why not let them? It's a big accomplishment and absolutely something to celebrate! I finished last year in September amongst a flurry of finisher posts, and it was exciting.
We likely hear about them more because of social media rather than the CMC list (someone else mentioned this), but at the same time - does it matter? No, not really. It should be something to be excited about. It might *seem* more commonplace for people that are heavily involved in the 14er/mountain community that people are on 14ers/13ers/whatnot and finish lists, but in all reality it isn't... it's niche and quite exciting when you finish or see someone else reach their goals.

[ekalina]

I'd prefer to speculate that positive factors are at play as well - more people are realizing the benefits of spending time in nature, challenging themselves physically, and disconnecting from work or [insert-energy-draining-activity-here]. I say we should do whatever we can to avoid WALL-E from becoming a documentary. Spending time outside seems like a good first step.

Congrats to the finishers. Some of the stories I've read of what you've overcome to finish are absolutely mindblowing.

[nyker]

Social media, transplants, and learned helplessness overcome by dependence on tech.
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Ok...I had to Google what microdose meant. Assuming that post from that person was a joke...