4x14ers (Decalibron)

July in Colorado means only one thing to me: the official start of 14er season. I decided to kick it off in a big way with four in one day. Tucked in the Mosquito Range, Mt. Democrat, Mt. Cameron, Mt. Lincoln, and Mt. Bross (or "Decalibron") are often grouped into one hike. This Class 2 loop is popular for good reason--with an elevation gain of 3,700' over 7.25 miles, it's a big bang for your buck.

My friend, Ian, and I left Denver Tuesday afternoon and headed southwest on Highway 285. Two hours later, we cruised through the small town of Alma, turning off towards Kite Lake. At a lofty 12,000', the campground is neatly surrounded by the four massive peaks.

Left to right: Democrat, Cameron, Bross (Lincoln is behind Cameron)

Despite the recent wildfires spreading across the state (and resulting fire ban), we were able to build a small fire in a designated fire ring. The risk was relatively low as it had just rained, and for the fact that there was nothing around to catch fire at the high elevation.

We prepared a delicious, black bean vegan chili. It was the perfect meal for the cool mountain air (overnight lows in the 40s). With a planned early start in the morning, we ditched the tent idea and slept in the car. It was exciting to spend the night before a big hike at the trailhead vs. driving in the morning of. And the stars...

The alarm sounded far too early the next morning, yet Ian and I rallied to join my coworker, Tim, at the base of Bross--5am start. After researching several trip reports, we decided to reverse the traditional route (i.e., counter-clockwise) in order to avoid the final descent from Bross, which is notoriously covered with scree (loose rock).

View of Democrat across the basin from Bross

As the night sky gave way to a soft palette of morning light, the insomnia quickly melted into adrenaline and nervous excitement. Legally, Bross cannot be summited because the land is privately owned (though many people ignore this fact).

After a very steep climb, we reached the peak at 14,172'. The layers came back on here as the rising sun had yet to warm the brisk morning air.





Next, we followed the trail down to the saddle leading to the final pitch of Lincoln. The classic Martian-like terrain that ensued is characteristic of 14er territory.

View of Lincoln from Cameron

At 14,286', the small summit offered tremendous views--Pikes Peak to the south, the Maroon Bells to the west, Mt. of the Holy Cross and Quandary to the north, and Grays and Torreys to the east.

A quick descent and ascent leads to the flat summit of Cameron at 14,238'. While not officially ranked (since the peak rises less than 300' above the Lincoln saddle), it is recognized on USGS maps.

Moving on, we dropped down to the next saddle towards Democrat, which is where the exhaustion set in.

Looking up to Cameron from Democrat saddle

After picking our way slowly across the rocky saddle, we made the final push to Democrat. As a way to pass the time, our happy trio played games and befriended fellow hikers.

View of Kite Lake basin from saddle

Just shy of the top is a false summit. The temperature had warmed up nicely, so we took a lunch break to devour our leftover chili. By this time, the trail had become relatively crowded.

View from Democrat: Cameron on left with Lincoln behind, Bross on right

At last, we were rewarded with arguably the best views of the day from Democrat: 14,148'.

Eventually, we began the final descent back to the rugged saddle and ultimately back to Kite Lake. We arrived just before 1pm for a total time of close to eight hours; doable, however, in six if you hustle. Back at the lake, we celebrated our epic hike with a couple of beers before returning to the 90-degree Denver heat. Now having hiked 11 of the Colorado 14ers, I can confidently admit that I am utterly enamored with the highs of mountaineering. Moreover, I am grateful for the good company of this journey as I begin to trade in some of my independence for community.

Looking up to Democrat