Dear Just Be: I want to climb a 14'er this year, but need some difficult training hikes. Can you suggest some that aren't too far from Denver?

Good for you- that is a great goal for this summer! Did you know that Colorado has 58 mountains over 14,000 feet (4,266 meters) in height but only 53 are noted as '14ers'? To qualify as a 14er the peak must be 300 feet higher than saddle of an adjacent peak. A notable exception is North Maroon Peak so 54 has become the 'official' number.

One great training area is to climb or run the stairs at Red Rocks Ampitheatre.

If you want to get into the mountains though we suggest the following two hikes; one is moderate and the other is more difficult. It is good to know your own fitness level before heading out.

1. Jaque Peak- Moderate Hike
Distance: 4.1 miles to summit. 1.4 miles back to trailhead (loop)
Time: Up in 145 minutes. Down in 55 minutes.
Elevation Gain: 2,225 feet

Directions: Drive south from I-70 at Copper Mountain towards Leadville on CO-91 for 4 miles. Turn off CO-91 onto a paved road going northwest for .9 miles. Then take the dirt road going to your right and ascend northwest for 3.4 miles. Park at an open area on your left at a sign saying, "Searle Pass Parking Area." This road is passable for normal cars.

The Hike: You will start out on an old mining road heading up Searle Gulch. Follow the pink ribbons on the trees, which lead you to Searle Pass. After the pass, you will head east over grassy slopes heading up to the right of a subpeak to the true high point which is marked by a cairn and registry in a jar. You will descend steeply downward in the southwest direction over tundra and through trees and end back at your vehicle.

1. Bandit Peak- More difficult hike
Distance: 5.0 miles to summit. 3.2 miles back to trailhead (loop)
Time: Up in 214 minutes. Down in 122 minutes.
Elevation Gain: 3,246 feet

Directions: From US 285, 2.7 miles northeast of Bailey, or 4.5 miles wouthwest of Pine Junction, drive north and then northwest on Park County 43 for 8.3 miles to Deer Creek Campground, and then .8 miles further to a parking area and a trail sign nearby. Park here.

The Hike: Take the trail to the right labeled, "Tanglewood Trail." Hik ealong Tanglewood Creek and at the fork, one mile up from the trailhead, take the right fork.. You will pass Rosalie Peak on your left and several rocky knobs roughly at 2.25 miles. The trail continues north and down to Roosevelt Lakes and Beartrack Lakes. Leave the pass and the trail by going to the west (left) and south around the cirque for about 1.5 miles to the north ridge of Bandit peak and ascend to the south easily to the top where there is a cairn waiting for you. Descend by going south over the tundra and through the trees to meet up with Rosalie Trail which parallels Deer Creek. Turn left (east) on this trail for about 2 miles to return to the trailhead.

Remember to dress appropriately, bring plenty of water, tell someone where you are going and have fun!