We Do Stuff: Huferano Peak and Iron Nipple

July 15, 2023

Hueferano Peak 13,828'

Iron Nipple 13,500'

When I asked Hazel what she wanted to do this weekend, she said "climb a mountain, a big, huge one!" I agreed that it would be great to get outside and suggested to Laura that we attempt one of our few remaining Centennial peaks of Colorado, Huerfano Peak. I texted our friend Isaac and told him to gather Nicole and the kids and meet us down there.

We all met at the trailhead Friday evening, relaxed for a few hours and crashed for an early wake up call. I slept outside on the ground and without a tent, was bothered by mosquitos and flies, but was treated to the big dipper constellation moving across the sky and eventually below the horizon. It was surprisingly large that night and felt closer than ever before.

We all woke early in the morning and got moving around 5 am. Hazel's only comment was that it was still dark outside but that didn't stop her from wanting to hike with us. She hiked the first 2 miles before deciding she wanted to be carried for a while. Laura carried her much of the remaining miles and to the summit of the Iron Nipple. From there, I took over and hauled her up to the summit of Colorado's 93rd highest summit.

The hike out was uneventful and Hazel walked several more miles after crossing the last stream on the way back to the car. We're proud of our little girl and how she goes along with just about anything...probably because she thinks sleeping in cars at trailheads, waking up in the dark, hiking all day and wading through freezing rivers on your way to a mountain top is what everyone does on a Saturday.