1st 14er - Mount Massive on Saturday HELP!

[Will_E]

There is also always a possibility the winds won't be as strong as the forecast shows. If Massive is what you're set on, I'd go for it. Worst thing that can happen is you go, hike to treeline (highly unlikely winds will make anything unsafe below treeline), if wind is too strong, turn back. Hiking to treeline is a better day than sitting on the couch at home.

I've had many hikes where the wind ended up being less strong than predicted. YMMV

[Trotter]

I'm agreeing with the other posters on this thread. We don't know when the weather will hit, and you don't know how fast you will be hiking. Days are pretty short right now and the last thing you want is to be above Treeline, in the fading light, exhausted, getting knocked around by the wind, and then the snow start falling. Sherman or quandary would be better goals if you just had to do a 14er. Those are a lot shorter so they're easier to do, and turn around when on them.

+1

And if someone gets injured, you likely won't have the kind of gear you need to survive that night while waiting for rescue. Unless you bring a tent and sleeping bag to the summit

[peter303]

Climb your 1st 14er in July 2021. Winter is here.
Plenty of satisfying and safer lower altitude hikes. Consider Sniktau.

[Dtallz]

Thanks for all the replies and suggestions. We will look into Sniktau and other alternatives.

[askwjs]

Be sure and check current closures. Guanella Pass just closed for the season early due to the fires. May want to go further west than Sniktau (Quandary or Sherman) or head south. No matter where you go, be prepared for high winds, very cold temps and to turn around if necessary.

[dwoodward13]

Thanks for all the replies and suggestions. We will look into Sniktau and other alternatives.

Sniktau is also in the Arapaho NF closure area.

[Gandalf69]

The decision to turn around or not go somewhere as planned is tough. If you have bad thoughts or feels now, it might be for a good reason.

[Scott P]

Look into Huron. It's in the same general area as Massive, but is a much shorter hike, especially if you have a 4x4.

[climbingcue]

Look into Huron. It's in the same general area as Massive, but is a much shorter hike, especially if you have a 4x4.

This is a great suggestion, it will still be windy and cold but much shorter if you can get to the 4x4 parking area.

[PJ88]

If no 4x4 vehicle, Yale would be a good option in that area. A little farther away but paved to the trailhead and a fairly straightforward hike.

[ltlFish99]

I'll agree with people who suggested Quandary. It has great access to the trailhead, and is popular.
It us also a much shorter hike than Massive.
I think Huron is a wonderful hike, and the views of the 3 Apostles are great.