Download Agreement, Release, and Acknowledgement of Risk:
You (the person requesting this file download) fully understand mountain climbing ("Activity") involves risks and dangers of serious bodily injury, including permanent disability, paralysis, and death ("Risks") and you fully accept and assume all such risks and all responsibility for losses, costs, and damages you incur as a result of your participation in this Activity.
You acknowledge that information in the file you have chosen to download may not be accurate and may contain errors. You agree to assume all risks when using this information and agree to release and discharge 14ers.com, 14ers Inc. and the author(s) of such information (collectively, the "Released Parties").
You hereby discharge the Released Parties from all damages, actions, claims and liabilities of any nature, specifically including, but not limited to, damages, actions, claims and liabilities arising from or related to the negligence of the Released Parties. You further agree to indemnify, hold harmless and defend 14ers.com, 14ers Inc. and each of the other Released Parties from and against any loss, damage, liability and expense, including costs and attorney fees, incurred by 14ers.com, 14ers Inc. or any of the other Released Parties as a result of you using information provided on the 14ers.com or 14ers Inc. websites.
You have read this agreement, fully understand its terms and intend it to be a complete and unconditional release of all liability to the greatest extent allowed by law and agree that if any portion of this agreement is held to be invalid the balance, notwithstanding, shall continue in full force and effect.
By clicking "OK" you agree to these terms. If you DO NOT agree, click "Cancel"...
Our trip started with our drive from Parker on Friday night. We arrived in BV about 8 and swung by the Green Parrot for a hearty dinner and a few beverages. We camped just past Cottonwood Lake and enjoyed a gorgeous night under the stars.
We started at the Denny Creek Trailhead at 9 am... a little later than we had hoped, but with no T-storms this time of year, not a big deal. The temp was right around freezing with a light breeze... just about perfect for a fall hike. There were about 4 other cars in the parking lot, a nice contrast to a July or August hike!
The summit from below
The first two miles of the trail had no snow and the going was relatively easy. After about 2 miles, there were a few snow patches, but surprisingly clear.
On the trail At 12,000'ish
We made it up to a rocky outcropping at about 13,100' and took a quick sheltered lunch break. It was a little breezy, but still amazingly comfortable for late October. One of our party of four decided to stop at this point, as it was his first 14er and he was hurting. Props to him for making it this far on his first attempt.
After our trail mix and PB&J, we made the push to the saddle just below the summit. The trail was still in amazing shape. There was some snow, but never enough to slow you down or lose the trail.
Push to the ridge
At the ridge there was a little more wind, so we didn't stop long and made the scramble to the top. Again, only minimal snow was on the route. Cracks between rocks were filled with loose snow, so occasionally you'd posthole through, but it was not much more challenging that summer.
On the summit ridge, 3 Apostles in the background
We summited at about 2:00. Not bad considering that this was the 1st 14er for 2 of the 4 in the group and only the 2nd for another! The view from the top was amazing! We didn't stay long, but had enough time to take our summit photos (including our photos needed for free sandwiches at Which Wichtoday! ).
On the summit with my Which Wich bag! Summit panorama south Summit panorma north
We descended quickly, remembering to pick up or 4th member at 13,000'. I thought I was doing great, but once we hit those last 2 miles, we all just wanted that car. After what seemed an eternity, we got back to the car at 5, and were at the Mt Princeton Hot Springs at 6. I know the heat is not the best for inflammation after a hike, but it was bliss. We soaked it up for an hour and were back in our own beds in Parker by 11.
On the return
Thumbnails for uploaded photos (click to open slideshow):
Awesome. We passed you guys on the way down. (2 guys in green and orange coats). We wanted down so badly we ran the steeper parts.
Beautiful day up high!
Caution: The information contained in this report may not be accurate and should not be the only resource used in preparation for your climb. Failure to have the necessary experience, physical conditioning, supplies or equipment can result in injury or death. 14ers.com and the author(s) of this report provide no warranties, either express or implied, that the information provided is accurate or reliable. By using the information provided, you agree to indemnify and hold harmless 14ers.com and the report author(s) with respect to any claims and demands against them, including any attorney fees and expenses. Please read the 14ers.com Safety and Disclaimer pages for more information.
Please respect private property: 14ers.com supports the rights of private landowners to determine how and by whom their land will be used. In Colorado, it is your responsibility to determine if land is private and to obtain the appropriate permission before entering the property.
).
