Mountain Safety: Am I Prepared to Spend the Night if Something Happens?

On Colorado's 14,000-foot peaks, it is winter almost every night--even in summer. Temperatures regularly fall below zero and it can snow every month of the year. Will you be prepared to spend the night if an accident or injury turns your light and fast trip up a 14er into an overnight stay?

That scenario happened to Brad and Melissa McQueen in May 2001 when they got caught overnight by a fast-moving blizzard on Mount Evans that ultimately ended in Melissa losing eight toes to frostbite. It is a mishap that has profoundly changed their approach to the equipment they carry on every trip to the mountains.

Mountain athlete and guide Ted Mahon, Alpine Rescue Team's Paul "Woody" Woodward, Custer County Search and Rescue's Jonathan Wiley and Flight for Life Colorado's Chad Miller share insights from their years on Colorado's high peaks and how they manage the light and fast vs. adequately prepared question about what gear to take to ensure they are safe if the worst happens.

REALITY. Climbing is inherently dangerous! People die on Colorado 14ers every year.

NO GUARANTEE. CFI’s goal is to provide you with education and perspective. Our videos do not address all climbing risks. Viewing the videos does not guarantee your safety!

YOUR RESPONSIBILITY! Be fit. Get educated. Be aware. If you choose to climb, you accept and assume the inherent and other risks. You remain responsible for your decisions, your actions and your adventure!