I’ve made a handful of trips to Colorado over the years, starting with a few to Ouray to climb its endless ice, and a trip to hike the state’s high point, Mt. Elbert (14439′) in 2015. In 2019 I went back for a few weeks to hike and climb as many 14ers as I could, and again for more in 2023. My favorites have been Crestone, Maroon, Longs, Blanca, and Mount of the Holy Cross. On my way out in 2023 I spent time in the Flat Top Wilderness and Dinosaur National Monument, places that rival even the best of the higher mountains.