August 12, 2017

In retrospect, DeCaLiBron, the composite name for the four peaks – Democrat, Cameron, Lincoln, and Bross – that stand closely together and linked by a looped trail, was the beginning of my intentional 14er journey. Though a planner in my daily life, I usually chose hikes at the last minute, depending on how I’m feeling. This time, I wanted to hike alone with my dog, Hallie, and I wanted to specifically hike a 14er. The Front Range 14ers and others that are more commonly accessed usually have quite a few passengers on their trails, especially on the weekends. This scenario was often ideal for me when I wanted to do difficult hikes alone but didn’t want to be alone. Moreover, I’d unintentionally fallen under the allure of 14ers.

Hiking 14ers lures us because it is meaningful. For individuals, these hikes are mentally and physically challenging, aesthetically wondrous, and build community. There is a 14er culture that creates and reinforces the mystique of these mountains.

Anticipation of these hikes adds to the excitement. In fact, the strongest memory I have of the trip is stopping at a gas station along highway 285. Dawn had just broken. I wasn’t far from the turn off the highway to the trailhead. I was just so excited. When I recall that morning, I see the color of the light-medium wood of the exterior of the building.

The western side of the mountain grouping borders Kite Lake. I parked on its edge. Hallie and I headed upwards and hiked among a moderate to heavy amount of people the entire time. This is not a place to go for solitude.

Hallie and I had our pictures taken on three of the peaks.  Some with signs. I think there were so many people that as I asked someone to take our photo, someone else nearby offered a sign. We didn’t get a photo on Bross. I’m not sure if we officially summitted it. Now I know that it’s private land that sometimes is shut down to the public. Then, like so many beginner 14er hikers, had done minimal research and just kind of followed the route of the crowds.

I don’t recall this being a remarkable hike, but I do remember being happy on and after it. After the hike I drove home and took a nap. I do recall that I could barely move when I woke up. I asked my then boyfriend for a handful of cashews I ate in bed. I revived. That was the beginning of learning that I needed to eat on hikes.