14er Challenge FAQs

What’s a 14er?

A 14er is a mountain whose peak exceeds 14,000 ft above sea level.

Can I bring my own equipment?

Yes! While we will have equipment available to rent and be ready for you when you arrive, you can bring your own camping gear. You will receive a camp gear order request form at a later date. Girls on the Run will also provide a packing list to registered hikers.

How should I prepare?

Get moving! Preparing to hike a 14er will look different for everyone, but one thing is for sure - you have to get moving! Time on your feet is critical whether you are coming from the high elevation or sea level. REI has a sample training plan available here: CLICK ME! All 14er Challenge participants will also have access to a customized 14er Challenge Training Plan created by TrailSisters!

I live at sea level. Will I get altitude sickness?

It would be reckless to say absolutely not. However, there are ways to prevent altitude sickness. CLICK HERE to help plan ahead and reduce your risk.

Can my child do this with me?

This challenge is for adults only and therefore only the registered climbers can participate in the adventure. If you plan to bring your family with you, there are lodging and entertainment options available in Leadville. CLICK HERE to learn more.

My dog loves to hike. Can they tag along?

We ask that you leave Spot at home for this trip. No dogs, gerbils, cats, snakes, or parrots, please.

I only want to climb one mountain. Do I get a discount?

While you can certainly choose to only climb one of the mountains, our registration fee remains the same. 

You say climb… will I have to bear crawl up the side of a mountain at any point?

Climbing is a loose term. As with all 14ers, there are areas on these hikes that are slightly more technical. However, this is not rock climbing - no belaying required! Our favorite resource to prepare for 14er hikes can be found here: Mt Massive & Mt Elbert. 

Will I be out there on my own?

No no no. We are a team! There will be small groups that travel together based on pace. It is up to you how fast you want/need to go.

We have a group of three that want to climb together. Can we all stay in one tent?

Tent accommodations through GOTR allow for two hikers per tent. If you are taking this challenge on with a group of 3+ people, we can make sure to place you in tents near one another - just let us know who goes with who!

Oh no, I registered for the wrong council!

Send us an email and we will get this sorted out for you. Contact Lauren Pietrek at [email protected].

Where do I fly into?

If you are coming from out of state, you will fly into Denver International Airport. The Girls on the Run basecamp is about a 2.5 hours drive from DIA. Hikers are responsible for getting to and from Basecamp on their own.

Will I need a car?

You will need a car or a ride to get to the Girls on the Run Basecamp. You will not need your own transportation to/from the trailhead.

How do I get to the Basecamp?

The Girls on the Run basecamp is a private ranch located in Leadville, CO, located at the base of both Mt. Elbert and Mt. Massive. In respect for the ranch owners, we will release the exact location closer to the event, along with driving directions.

Will food be provided?

Yes, we will provide the following meals:

• Friday night dinner

• Saturday grab-and-go breakfast

• Saturday afternoon post-climb snack

• Saturday night dinner

• Sunday grab-and-go breakfast

• Sunday grab-and-go lunch

We will also have snacks to pack for the climb.

What exactly is the Girls on the Run basecamp?

It is a one-of-a-kind experience. The Girls on the Run basecamp is located on a private ranch in Leadville, CO. The basecamp will include campsites for tents, “mess hall” tents, port-a-potties, and access to fresh and bottled water. We will also have some evening entertainment.  

When do I need to arrive?

Basecamp will open at 3:00 PM on Friday. You will receive more information on arrival and departure times.

How long does it take to hike a 14er?

The pace to hike a 14er varies by each climber. You can expect to be hiking for a minimum of 6 hours each day. Mt. Elbert’s route is ~10 miles total and Mt. Massive is ~15 miles. Reading trip reports from other hikers’ experiences is helpful when trying to gauge how long it may take you to summit.