Mt. Sherman - My First 14er

My first 14er

We arrived in CO on Saturday afternoon about 1700. We were looking for a short hike to help acclimate. Somebody had suggested Mt. Sherman, just outside of Leadville.
We arrived at the trail head and took out at 0815. Being a flatlander, it was quite a tough trek. I was really feeling the altitude. The trail was just a mess of loose rock and scree. Once I hit the saddle and got out of the really loose, sloppy stuff, I caught my second wind. Feeling much better , I could see the summit ridge. Pushing on, slow and steady, I finally summited at 1103. What a thrill! I had just summited my first 14er!
I didn't have long to bask in my new found glory. There was a nasty looking storm rolling in. I had put in all that time for 17 minutes on summit. I was not taking any chances with the weather.
On the way down, I was accompanied by 2 mountain goats, about 50 feet off to my right. They just kept pace with me, as we watched each other in awe. I was amazed at how sure footed and nimble there were. They were equally amazed at how aloof and clumsy I must have appeared. Got a few great pics.
I finally made it back down to the car at 1300. Quite the hike for only being at altitude about 18 hours.
Not a big feat for a local. I actually saw a woman with one leg heading up as I was on my way down. However, being flatlander, I was quite proud of myself. One down, 53 more to go!!!

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