mt democrat alma colorado

Hiked up Mt. Bross and it had some great views. This was my first time to hike and so a 14er was definitely a challenge. I had a little bit of trouble breathing as we got higher, but with a few breaks was okay. Definitely needed to dress warm and wear gloves because it snowed, rained, and hailed during the hike. The weather would come in pockets. It had great views as you hiked up. Will be returning and hiking Mt. Lincoln as well.

I drove up to Kite Lake, where the trail starts, and camped out overnight. It's $12 to camp overnight and well worth it. You can also arrive early and pay just $3 or park down the road for free if you are cheap. The road up is rough in spots and was very rough right before the parking area so be careful. I started at 6 am and made it to the top of Democrat at 9 am. Pretty straight forward up with no way to get lost. That said it is still pretty tough if you are not in the best shape or acclimated to the altitude. You can also tag 3 other 14'ers from here if you decide to do the Decalibron which consists of Democrat, Cameron, Lincoln, and Bross. All are connected via a trail. I highly suggest wearing hiking boots although I saw people with trail runners and pack warm clothes, it can be quit cold on top even during the summer. The scenery was spectacular to say the least, well worth the struggle to get to the top.

Wow what a hike. Leave early for this trek up. The kite lake trail head sits about 6 miles off the main road from alma. All dirt a little bumpy but doable even in a smaller car just check clearance and watch potholes. The kite lake trail head has free and fee parking just 3 for the day. The initial hike out is a gradual climb. Trail is well marked. About half the way up you will experience Rick scrambles. And boulders. I would say an intermediate climb. Be on the lookout for marmots and mining marmots they are the small furry creatures that spend most of their time collecting flowers for the winter. Most of te climb is a series of switch backs and loose scramble rock and shale. Take care and wear the correct shoes for this one. I strongly recommend hiking boats and no tennis shoes or sandals your feet will tha k you later. The last you will reach a false summit and once over this your will have another half mile to go to the summit. Se flat terrain and then last incline to the top. There is a market atop to take photos with so take a phone or camera to get a pic. Safe travels and have fun making tracks. and have fun t