2009.07.05 MOUNT ANTERO (10 more to go...)

Mount Antero is probably one of the least inspiring Colorado 14ers as its most distinguishing feature is a 4wd road to 13,800 feet. However, its on the list so it needed to be done sometime.

Antero from outside Buena Vista:

With hopes of camping high on the mountain, Devon and I lugged our camping gear to 12,500 feet where we watched the sunset over the Sawatch mountains.

Sunset:

Antero's west face at sunset:

Uncertain weather and building clouds forced a change of plans, as we descended to treeline at 11,500 feet to camp. Rain/snow and wind persisted throughout the night, as Devon and I were thankful to have moved down to the lower elevation. An early start the next day provided some great views on the relatively gentle hike to the 14,269 feet summit.

Hiking above the clouds:

Devon approaching the summit:

Devon and I on the summit with Tabegauche Peak in background:

Antero is the 43rd "official" Colorado 14er that I've hiked leaving only 10 left on the list. And with trips to the San Juan and Sangre de Cristo ranges planned for the next two weeks, the countdown will continue...