The rules of mountaineering...

"In the mountains there are only two grades: You can either do it, or you can't."
-Rusty Baille

The three rules of mountaineering...

1. It's always further than it looks.

2. It's always taller than it looks.

3. And it's always harder than it looks.

But, it's almost always worth it!

We did a lot of research before embarking on our fourteener hikes. I highly recommend checking out 14ers.com. They have an extensive collection of trail descriptions, forums, and general climbing information.

Also, want to give a shout-out to our friend Ethan's organization, Colorado Fourteeners Initiative. They work on the trails throughout the summer, and their website recommends the most sustainable routes.