Crews respond to 2 rescue calls on separate Colorado 14ers in same day

Morgan Whitley
·1 min read
2

DENVER (KDVR) — While meteorological summer is a week away, trails above 10,000 feet remain snowpacked.

Lake County Search and Rescue had a busy Monday when crews responded to two separate calls on 14ers. Crews hiked up Mount Massive and Mount Elbert to assist those who were unprepared for the conditions.

Mount Elbert is the tallest 14er in Colorado, sitting at 14,438 feet, while Mount Massive is the second tallest at 14,427.

Lake County Search and Rescue said both calls had similar themes: Those who needed help were unprepared for the amount of snow still on the trail and lacked essential items.

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“While trails may seem dry and clear in areas of the Front Range, that is not the case on these 14er routes,” said Lake County Search and Rescue.

Postholing, or falling through the snow, can make navigation a challenge, according to the agency. Along with the lack of food, water, light source and a plan, the search and rescue crew said it can make for a long day and to consider hiking in lower elevations until the snow melts.

Lake County Search and Rescue offered these tips on hiking in the high country during the early summer season.

  • Bring a pack with essential items including snowshoes or skis

  • Understand the consequences of deviating from route plans

  • Start early in the morning to avoid the melting of the snow, or choose a trail lower in elevation to avoid postholing

As of Friday, Colorado’s median snowpack is 119%, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

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