Cresting a 14,000-foot peak is a source of pride and a rite of passage for many Coloradans. And with many of the peaks only a few hours from Denver, it’s also a feasible day trip. As a recent Colorado transplant, I decided it was about time I joined the fourteener club. Mount Bierstadt, accessible from the Guanella Pass and only a little more than an hour from Denver, was my first choice. Click through the photos above to get a play-by-play of my first fourteener experience.

Read about Colorado’s fourteeners, including which peaks are right for your experience level, what to bring with you, and more.

Sarah Banks
Sarah Banks
Sarah produces, photographs and researches the photography in the print edition of 5280. In addition, she photographs and writes for 5280.com.