ljoyce21 wrote: ↑Mon Sep 12, 2022 9:37 am
I've done 10 14ers in the last month and have summited 18 (I think). At this time I have only done class 1 and 2 hikes, mainly due to their proximity to the Denver area, but I want to get in at least one class 3 or 4 before it snows. The toughest hikes I've done recently were probably Harvard and Columbia (North cottonwood creek traditional routes), but I would not say they were too difficult - just harder in comparison. I have great endurance and have no issues with scrambling (its my favorite part). I am saving Longs peak for next summer to do with family, so for this month I've got my eyes on Pyramid Peak and Maroon Peak. Do you think I am ready for those hikes based on what I've said?
It depends...
Putting aside 14ers or even mountains in Colorado, what other types of hikes/climbs/outings have you done? Any shorter but more challenging peaks/routes? Have you any rock climbing experience away from hiking?
I wouldn't just make a blanket statement and say no you shouldn't do Pyramid or the Bells, but in all honesty I don't know anything about you and can't make any recommendation based on a two sentence self description.
On a peak like South Maroon and many other harder peaks/routes, you'll not just need fitness (both solid aerobic fitness and leg strength/endurance), but good judgement and an ability to withstand suffering without detracting from your performance.
Others make good points about getting more experience under your belt and learning how to route find better first, so can't go wrong with that advice at any skill level in all honesty.
If you went on the aforementioned peaks with an experienced, mature, patient partner with an understanding of who is leading and who is following (essentially a non-paid Guide) or a paid Guide then I'd say yes you might be fine on them, if you're fit, acclimatized and comfortable on such terrain.