What is a 14er in hiking?

AvatarByDale Richard Hiking

Have you heard of a 14er? If you’re a hiker, you probably have. But what exactly is a 14er, and why are they so popular?

A 14er is a mountain that is 14,000 feet or higher in elevation. There are 54 of them in the United States, and they’re all located in the Rocky Mountains. Hiking a 14er is a major accomplishment for many hikers, and it’s a bucket list item for many more.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what 14ers are, why they’re so popular, and what it takes to hike one. We’ll also provide some tips and resources for planning your own 14er hike.

So if you’re curious about 14ers, or if you’re thinking about hiking one yourself, read on!

Rank Mountain Elevation (ft)
1 Mount Whitney 14,505
2 Mount Rainier 14,411
3 Mount Adams 12,281
4 Mount Hood 11,239
5 Mount Shasta 14,179

What is a 14Er?

A 14Er is a mountain that is at least 14,000 feet (4,267 meters) above sea level. The term is most commonly used in reference to the 54 mountains in the Rocky Mountains of North America that meet this criteria. These mountains are located in the states of Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, Idaho, and British Columbia.

Definition of a 14Er

There is no official definition of a 14Er, but the term is generally used to refer to a mountain that is at least 14,000 feet above sea level. This definition is based on the fact that the highest mountain in the contiguous United States, Mount Whitney, is 14,505 feet tall.

History of 14Ers

The first 14Er to be summited was Mount Elbert in Colorado, which was climbed by James H. Whymper in 1874. The first person to summit all 54 of the 14Ers was Walter A. Starr Jr. in 1938.

List of 14Ers

The following is a list of the 54 mountains in the Rocky Mountains of North America that are at least 14,000 feet above sea level:

  • Colorado:
  • Mount Elbert (14,440 feet)
  • Mount Massive (14,421 feet)
  • Mount Bierstadt (14,060 feet)
  • Mount Evans (14,271 feet)
  • Mount Lincoln (14,286 feet)
  • Mount Democrat (14,284 feet)
  • Mount Cameron (14,231 feet)
  • Mount Oxford (14,155 feet)
  • Mount Sherman (14,036 feet)
  • Mount Antero (14,270 feet)
  • Mount Shavano (14,229 feet)
  • Mount Tabeguache (14,156 feet)
  • Mount Wilson (14,017 feet)
  • Mount Belford (14,059 feet)
  • Mount Oxford (14,155 feet)
  • Mount La Plata (14,336 feet)
  • Mount Massive (14,421 feet)
  • Mount Tolan (14,196 feet)
  • Mount Harvard (14,420 feet)
  • Mount Columbia (14,071 feet)
  • Mount Yale (14,196 feet)
  • Mount Princeton (14,197 feet)
  • Mount Longs Peak (14,259 feet)
  • Mount Meeker (14,014 feet)
  • Mount Evans (14,271 feet)
  • Mount Bierstadt (14,060 feet)
  • Mount Democrat (14,284 feet)
  • Mount Cameron (14,231 feet)
  • Mount Lincoln (14,286 feet)
  • Mount Oxford (14,155 feet)
  • Mount Sherman (14,036 feet)
  • Mount Antero (14,270 feet)
  • Mount Shavano (14,229 feet)
  • Mount Tabeguache (14,156 feet)
  • Mount Wilson (14,017 feet)
  • Mount Belford (14,059 feet)
  • Mount Oxford (14,155 feet)
  • Mount La Plata (14,336 feet)
  • Mount Massive (14,421 feet)
  • Mount Tolan (14,196 feet)
  • Mount Harvard (14,420 feet)
  • Mount Columbia (14,071 feet)
  • Mount Yale (14,196 feet)
  • Mount Princeton (14,197 feet)
  • Mount Longs Peak (14,259 feet)
  • Mount Meeker (14,014 feet)
  • Mount Evans (14,271 feet)
  • Mount Bierstadt (14,060 feet)

What Is A 14Er In Hiking?

A 14er is a mountain peak that is at least 14,000 feet (4,267 meters) above sea level. There are 58 14ers in the United States, all of which are located in the Rocky Mountains. The first 14er to be summited was Pikes Peak in Colorado in 1820.

14ers are challenging hikes, and they require a high level of fitness and technical skill. However, they are also incredibly rewarding, and they offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

How to Hike 14Ers

Hiking a 14er is a major undertaking, and it’s important to be prepared before you set out. Here are a few tips for hiking 14ers:

  • Train for the altitude. The higher you go, the thinner the air becomes. This can make it difficult to breathe, and it can also increase your risk of altitude sickness. To train for the altitude, gradually increase the amount of time you spend at high elevations. You can do this by hiking in the mountains, or by spending time in a hypoxic chamber.
  • Get the right gear. Hiking a 14er requires a lot of gear, including a backpack, boots, hiking poles, a sleeping bag, a tent, and a stove. It’s important to make sure that your gear is lightweight and durable. You should also pack plenty of food and water, and be prepared for bad weather.
  • Plan your hike. Before you set out on a 14er hike, it’s important to plan your route carefully. Make sure that you know the distance and elevation gain of the hike, and that you have enough time to complete it. You should also check the weather forecast, and be prepared to change your plans if necessary.

Safety on 14Ers

Hiking 14ers can be dangerous, and it’s important to take precautions to stay safe. Here are a few tips for staying safe on 14ers:

  • Be aware of the weather. The weather on 14ers can change quickly, and it’s important to be prepared for all conditions. Check the weather forecast before you set out, and be prepared to change your plans if necessary.
  • Be aware of the avalanche risk. Avalanches are a serious hazard on 14ers, and they can be deadly. If you’re hiking in avalanche terrain, be sure to know how to identify avalanche hazards and how to avoid them.
  • Be aware of the wildlife hazards. There are a variety of wildlife hazards on 14ers, including bears, mountain lions, and rattlesnakes. Be sure to take precautions to avoid these animals.
  • Be prepared for emergencies. Hiking 14ers can be physically demanding, and you may be more likely to experience an injury or illness. Be sure to pack a first-aid kit, and be prepared to treat yourself or others in case of an emergency.

Hiking 14ers is a challenging but rewarding experience. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of having a safe and enjoyable hike.

What is a 14er?

A 14er is a mountain peak in the United States that is at least 14,000 feet (4,267 meters) above sea level. There are 54 14ers in the United States, all of which are located in the Rocky Mountains.

Why are 14ers so popular?

There are a few reasons why 14ers are so popular. First, they are a challenging but achievable goal for many hikers. Second, they offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Third, they are a way to connect with nature and get some exercise.

What is the hardest 14er?

There is no one definitive answer to this question, as different hikers may find different 14ers to be more or less difficult. However, some of the most challenging 14ers include:

  • Mount Rainier (14,411 feet) in Washington
  • Mount Whitney (14,505 feet) in California
  • Denali (20,320 feet) in Alaska

What is the best way to climb a 14er?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best way to climb a 14er will vary depending on your fitness level, experience, and the specific mountain you are attempting to climb. However, some general tips include:

  • Start by choosing a 14er that is within your skill level.
  • Train for your climb by gradually increasing your distance and elevation gain.
  • Choose a safe and well-established route.
  • Bring the proper gear, including a map, compass, headlamp, food, water, and a first aid kit.
  • Let someone know your plans and when you expect to return.

What are the risks of climbing a 14er?

Climbing a 14er can be a dangerous activity, and there are a number of risks involved, including:

  • Avalanches
  • Falling rocks
  • Hypothermia
  • Dehydration
  • Acute mountain sickness

It is important to be aware of these risks and take steps to mitigate them.

How can I prepare for climbing a 14er?

There are a number of things you can do to prepare for climbing a 14er, including:

  • Get in shape by gradually increasing your distance and elevation gain.
  • Learn about the specific mountain you are attempting to climb.
  • Practice your route-finding skills.
  • Bring the proper gear.
  • Get a good night’s sleep before your climb.

What are some tips for climbing a 14er?

Here are some tips for climbing a 14er:

  • Start early in the day.
  • Take breaks often.
  • Drink plenty of water.
  • Eat a healthy diet.
  • Listen to your body.
  • Be prepared to turn around if necessary.

What is the best time of year to climb a 14er?

The best time of year to climb a 14er depends on the specific mountain you are attempting to climb. However, generally speaking, the best time to climb is during the summer months, when the weather is typically more stable.

What are some resources for learning more about 14ers?

There are a number of resources available for learning more about 14ers, including:

  • The American Alpine Club’s 14ers website: https://www.americanalpineclub.org/14ers
  • The Colorado Mountain Club’s 14ers website: https://www.cmc.org/14ers
  • The 14ers.com website: https://www.14ers.com

    a 14er is a mountain peak that is at least 14,000 feet above sea level. These mountains are found in the Rocky Mountains of North America, and they are a popular destination for hikers and climbers.

There are 58 14ers in the United States, and they are all located in Colorado. The highest 14er is Mount Elbert, which is 14,440 feet tall. The most difficult 14er to climb is Longs Peak, which is known for its challenging summit push.

Hiking 14ers is a challenging but rewarding experience. It requires physical fitness, mental toughness, and a good understanding of the risks involved. However, the views from the summits are unmatched, and the sense of accomplishment that comes from reaching the top is unforgettable.

If you are thinking about hiking a 14er, be sure to do your research and prepare properly. This includes getting in shape, learning about the mountain you will be climbing, and bringing the right gear. With proper preparation, you can safely and successfully summit a 14er and experience the thrill of a lifetime.

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.