Does this take place on an actual 14er?

That is the goal. We use an actual objective as a way to practice the navigation, planning, and pacing skills to complete one of the easier 14er climbs to help people prepare for future climbs.

Does this prepare for technical climbs or harder 14ers?

This is an introductory level class aimed at class one 14er climbs where people may be unfamiliar with high altitude or more complex weather and planning for high alpine areas. For more technical climbing skills common on some of the hardest 14ers something like the Spring or Winter alpine skills courses or our Alpine Rock Skills class.

How do I know where this takes place?

We will make recommendations on a venue based on where we have permits to operate, your skill level, and the venue closest to you. We typically try to do an actual 14er climb on some of the easier 14ers such as Handies, Mount Sherman, or occasionally Humboldt Peak for participants with significant fitness.

Do I need a particular vehicle to get to the meeting location?

The first lesson about climbing 14ers you get for free. You need a car capable of driving on rough roads. Most 14ers are accessible via gravel roads that can sometimes be rough for a lower clearance 2WD vehicle but it can be done. A higher clearance vehicle will do better but 4WD and high clearance together will cover most trailheads except for some really challenging ones. Check out our 14er preparation guide for more info.