The Peak of Humanity

yesterday i climbed my 2nd 14er, Mt. Bierstadt (14,060 feet). and while the sense of accomplishment and physical exhaustion are still present (i slept for 13 hours), neither resonates with me as much as the surprising realization that the people on the mountain yesterday were really, really friendly.

ordinarily, hiking 7 miles at altitudes ranging from 11,000 to 14,000 ft. leaves me tired, hungry, focused (on getting finished) and generally just not in the mood to socialize. but the mountain, deemed the easiest of the 14ers (bullshit) was packed solid with hikers from all walks of life, pun intended. more often than expected, i engaged in conversations with complete strangers--either individuals or groups of people--about a variety of topics. best part was, i didn't even start most of the conversations.

for some, it was their first time. for others it was just a continuation of their weekend rituals. and for a few, it was their milestone achievement in life, climbing this mountain. regardless of experience, the setting was very communal, completely the opposite of the isolation and solitude of climbing pikes peak last summer. it was almost like a block party on the side of a mountain--just without the booze, or real food (clif bars get really old after your 3rd one), and chicks in bikinis.

the climb itself wasn't very memorable. i suffered immensely during the ascent, and the path to the summit was a 1/4 mile of boulders. but none of that will be filed within the memory banks; only the realization that i think i found myself a new community of which to be a part and my one regret: i didn't get her number.

14er hikers are even more friendly than cyclists. and for those of you who ride, that's a significant statement. the path to the top of the world is long, tough and full of obstacles. it miraculously becomes much easier and more navigable with a few friendly faces.

UPDATE: Pics have been posted on myspace. i need a new photographer. mine's really slow.