As a very important disclaimer this is a list that applies to hiking anything less than a class three 14er. As the class of a 14er increases so does the list of gear needed to ascend it. Hopefully this list is a good starting point for beginners looking take on one of Colorado’s mighty mountains.

With that being said a second disclaimer is in order; I am aware that this list does not have every item you could possibly need for every mountain you could possibly climb. When in doubt seek out guidance from those more experienced than you! 

Here are my 15 must haves for a 14er:

1) A Great Day Pack -I would recommend no more than 35 liters, with a waist strap.  

2) Water- I prefer a camel back system of 1.5 liters-A good rule of thumb is to sip water every 15 minutes while on the trail. 

3) Snacks – Snacks like crackers and peanut butter, fruit gummies, beef jerky, along with a hearty sandwich for the summit are key. Pair a snack and water breaks every hour.  

4) Base Layer-Always go full synthetic for your base layer to help keep sweat off of your body, a thin synthetic shirt and synthetic pants or shorts (weather dependent) 

5) Mid Layer- Synthetic blends make for a great mid layer-something that will provide warmth and is an easy on and off-typically starting the hike wearing it and putting it back on at the summit.

6) Wind/Rain Protection-A think waterproof rain jacket works as wind protection and comes in handy as weather get more volatile toward the summit. 

7)  Don’t Wear Cotton- This is a must not have-cotton does’t breath or dry well and will keep moister on your body-especially bad for winter hiking.

8) Apps to have (14ers.com and Open Summit) – My two favorite apps are 14ers.com app and Open Summit. 14ers app gives you tons of information of every approach and trail for all the 14ers, you get detailed descriptions of routs along with pictures and maps to download before you go. Open Summit reports on the wether on your desired summit-this is hugely important because looking at the weather for the town your mountain is in tells you nothing about what is going on at the summit. Considering weather is what separates so many of us from summiting this information is priceless.

9) A Buff- Buffs can be used as a headband, and can be pulled down around the neck for extra warmth. Buff brand also uses SPF fibers for added sun protection 

10) Socks – One pair of thin sock that prevent blistering under a pair of wool socks-all year round wool socks are a good idea 

11) Sun protection – The higher the exposure, the harsher the elements- SPF 50, a billed hat, and sunglasses are things you will never regret bringing.

12) GPS/ SAT phone – Always letting friends and family know what you’re plans are is crucial-let them know your time frame and your approach in as much detail as possible. Though they are expensive having a Satellite phone and a device that can track you through GPS could be the difference in saving your life. 

13) First aid (maybe a splint) – Something you hope you never need, but you’re grateful to have if you do. A fully stocked miniature First Aid kit is a must, and a split is highly recommended. 

14) Gloves – Thin gloves may be unnecessary, but can be a comfort when crawling over rocks and if the weather changes.

15) Headlamps (just in case) – If you are starting your hike before dawn (as you always should) headlamps will spare you stubbed toes and nasty spills 

The 16th must which I would classify as the most important, is a drive to get to your summit, but more importantly a willingness to bail when necessary. Nothing is more important than your personal safety and the safety of those who would risk their lives to find you. I have had to walk away from a summit just 200ft out because weather moved in. It is agonizing, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry with stakes that high. Proper equipment and preparedness make all the difference in a successful 14er attempt. Remember to always adventure according to your own ability and abide by the 7 P’s; Proper Prier Planning Prevents Piss Poor Performance-and death.