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The Next Summit (Alex Derr)
@thenextsummit.bsky.social
390 followers 280 following 420 posts
Hiking, camping, and bagging peaks across the Colorado Rockies while sharing Leave No Trace and safety tips and advocating for public lands, conservation, and recreation access. Follow me on the trail and discover your next summit! 🥾🏔
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The Next Summit (Alex Derr) @thenextsummit.bsky.social · 4d
Sunrise on the road to Missouri Gulch.
Looks quiet. But further up, the road eats low-clearance cars for breakfast. 😬

Before heading to any trailhead: check the road, know your clearance, and don’t wing it. The hike starts after the road ends. Plan ahead.

#Colorado14ers #MissouriGulch #TrailTips
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The Next Summit (Alex Derr) @thenextsummit.bsky.social · 5d
Driving I-70 in a storm? Been there, done that.

It's not fun; especially if you're not sure what you're doing.

These 9 winter driving tips will get you to the trailhead and back safely when roads get slick: thenextsummit.org/9-winter-d...

#ColoradoDriving #WinterSafety #i70
9 Winter Driving Tips: How to Travel Safely in the Mountains During Snow Season | The Next Summit: A Mountain Blog
These are critical winter driving tips for safe travel in the mountains. We cover vehicle preparation, navigating icy roads, emergency measures, and more.
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The Next Summit (Alex Derr) @thenextsummit.bsky.social · 5d
Summit crushed Grays Peak this month—on leash the whole way. 🐶⛰️

The myth that dogs need to be off-leash to enjoy the mountains? Yeah… no. Every sniff, every breeze, every muddy paw was joy on a string.

Leash = love + safety + LNT.

#DogsOn14ers #LeaveNoTrace #ColoradoDogs #GraysPeak #AdventureDog
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The Next Summit (Alex Derr) @thenextsummit.bsky.social · 6d
Microspikes or crampons? Which is right, and when?

Choosing the proper traction for early-season ice and consolidated snow is essential if you plan to do any hiking this autumn.

Breakdowns + recommendations inside: thenextsummit.org/crampons-v...

#Colorado14ers #HikingGear #Traction
Crampons vs Microspikes for 14ers | What's the Best Choice? | The Next Summit: A Mountain Blog
During Colorado winters and spring, traction is key for hiking and climbing 14ers. Here's what to consider when deciding on crampons vs microspikes.
thenextsummit.org
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The Next Summit (Alex Derr) @thenextsummit.bsky.social · 6d
Feeling off at 13,000 feet? Don’t brush it off.

Altitude sickness can hit fast—and ignoring the signs can lead to serious consequences. Learn to recognize the 9 most common symptoms before your next hike.

🔗 Read the guide: thenextsummit.org/symptoms-o...
Symptoms of Altitude Sickness: 9 Warning Signs | The Next Summit: A Mountain Blog
Knowing how to recognize the symptoms of altitude sickness is important. Here's a guide on how to identify mild, moderate, and severe altitude sickness.
thenextsummit.org
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The Next Summit (Alex Derr) @thenextsummit.bsky.social · 7d
Love quiet trails? Winter hiking can be magical, but also unforgiving if mistakes are made.

Get 7 essential tips to stay warm, safe, and stoked all season (don't become a news story!): thenextsummit.org/winter-hik...

#ColoradoLife #WinterHiking
Winter Hiking in Colorado: 7 Tips for Great Winter Adventures | The Next Summit: A Mountain Blog
Learn how to get outside in the snow and stay safe with these seven tips for winter hiking in Colorado.
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The Next Summit (Alex Derr) @thenextsummit.bsky.social · 7d
Headed for the high country? The Ten Essentials can turn a mishap into a manageable situation. From navigation and illumination to first aid and emergency shelter, here’s the checklist every Colorado hiker should carry.

Read the full guide → thenextsummit.org/the-ten-es...

#CO14ers #LeaveNoTrace
The Ten Essentials: Be Ready for Anything on the Trail | The Next Summit: A Mountain Blog
The ten essentials are the most important gear and supplies you need to stay safe and survive in the backcountry. Here's a complete guide to all ten.
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The Next Summit (Alex Derr) @thenextsummit.bsky.social · 8d
Hypothermia can sneak up fast during fall in the mountains

Learn the signs (umbles!), how to prevent it, and what to do if it hits on trail: thenextsummit.org/prevent-re...

#ColoradoAutumn #Hypothermia #WildernessFirstAid
How To Prevent, Recognize, and Treat Hypothermia | Wilderness First Aid 101 | The Next Summit: A Mountain Blog
Discover how to prevent, identify, and treat hypothermia during outdoor activities, with real-life examples and actionable tips, in my new first aid guide.
thenextsummit.org
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The Next Summit (Alex Derr) @thenextsummit.bsky.social · 9d
Hiking a 14er in November? Expect ice, wind, and short daylight.

Here’s how to plan, what to pack, and when to turn around safely: thenextsummit.org/hiking-14e...

#Colorado14ers #HikingSafety
Hiking 14ers in November | Tips for Safe & Successful Summits | The Next Summit: A Mountain Blog
Temperatures on the fourteeners range from 40 F to -10 F in the month of November. It's one reason why hiking 14ers in November is so unpredictable.
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The Next Summit (Alex Derr) @thenextsummit.bsky.social · 10d
Planning a fall summit? These are the 7 best 14ers for crisp temps, golden views, and safer conditions. Pick your peak wisely and go prepared: thenextsummit.org/best-7-fou...

#Colorado14ers #HikingSafety
Best 7 Fourteeners to Climb in the Fall | The Next Summit: A Mountain Blog
As the snow begins closing trailheads and increasing avalanche risk, here are 7 fourteeners to climb in the fall that remain accessible and safe.
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The Next Summit (Alex Derr) @thenextsummit.bsky.social · 19d
🍂 Fall in Colorado means sunshine one minute, icy wind the next. The secret? Layering.

Base = wick sweat

Mid = stay warm

Outer = block wind/rain

Pack smart, swap layers as you go, and don’t forget an extra puffy for when the sun dips. 🥾🌄

#HikeSmart
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The Next Summit (Alex Derr) @thenextsummit.bsky.social · 20d
Not just background scenery — Colorado’s pines define our forests. 🌲 Learn how to ID them (and protect them) here:

thenextsummit.org/colorado-p...

#PineTrees #LeaveNoTrace
Colorado Pine Trees: Identifying, Enjoying, and Protecting Colorado’s Iconic Evergreens | The Next Summit: A Mountain Blog
Discover the beauty of Colorado pine trees with this guide. Learn to identify key species, their role in the ecosystem, and how to protect them.
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The Next Summit (Alex Derr) @thenextsummit.bsky.social · 20d
Happy Friday, friends! ☀️⛰️

The weekend is almost here! Where are you heading to get outside? Hitting a 14er? Chasing fall colors? Or just soaking in some fresh air close to home?

#Colorado14ers #OptOutside #TheNextSummit #WeekendWarriors
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The Next Summit (Alex Derr) @thenextsummit.bsky.social · 21d
🌲 Why should hikers care about the Roadless Rule? It protects 60M acres of National Forest from roads and logging—including 1.6M in Colorado.

No roads = more wildlife, cleaner water, peaceful trails, and true wilderness experiences. When we keep these areas roadless, we keep them wild. 🥾
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The Next Summit (Alex Derr) @thenextsummit.bsky.social · 22d
The Judd Falls Trail is a fall classic near Crested Butte. Short, family-friendly, and lined with aspen groves that explode in gold this time of year.

This trail guide covers parking, directions, and tips for making the most of the season.

Get the Guide: thenextsummit.org/colorado-h...
Judd Falls Trail Near Crested Butte: Ultimate Hiking Guide | The Next Summit: A Mountain Blog
Comprehensive guide to Judd Falls Trail with route details, safety tips, camping options, and FAQs for a safe and enjoyable hike.
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The Next Summit (Alex Derr) @thenextsummit.bsky.social · 22d
❄️ When should you start packing microspikes? Right about now. Early-season ice patches make Colorado trails treacherous fast.

🧊 Even without deep snow, microspikes can prevent dangerous falls. Trekking poles help too.

✅ Don't wait for winter - fall conditions can be just as dangerous!
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The Next Summit (Alex Derr) @thenextsummit.bsky.social · 23d
Alpine lakes + fall colors = the perfect Colorado hike. 🏔️🍁
15 trails to explore this season:
thenextsummit.org/15-beautif...

#ColoradoHiking
15 Beautiful Alpine Lake Hikes in Colorado for Your Next Adventure | The Next Summit: A Mountain Blog
Discover 15 of the best alpine lake hikes in Colorado, ranging from short family-friendly hikes to challenging high-elevation climbs and adventures.
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The Next Summit (Alex Derr) @thenextsummit.bsky.social · 24d
Thinking about tackling Colorado’s highest peak this winter? Mount Elbert is doable, but not without preparation. My guide covers:
✅ Gear for subzero conditions
✅ Route advice for snow & ice
✅ Safety considerations for short days

Start planning:
thenextsummit.org/mount-elbe...

#WinterHiking #14ers
Mount Elbert Winter Guide: Resources for a Successful 14er Ascent | The Next Summit: A Mountain Blog
Planning on a Mount Elbert winter ascent? Prepare yourself with my 14er route guide, descriptions, topographical maps and photos.
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The Next Summit (Alex Derr) @thenextsummit.bsky.social · 26d
Looking for quick mountain getaways within an hour of Denver? Idaho Springs has you covered.

From mellow lake loops to summit scrambles, here are 12 of the best hikes near Idaho Springs!

👉 Explore the full list:
thenextsummit.org/best-hikin...

#HikingColorado #IdahoSprings
Best Hiking Near Idaho Springs: My 12 Favorite Trails with Stunning Views | The Next Summit: A Mountain Blog
Discover 12 stunning trails for hiking near Idaho Springs, from easy nature walks to rugged 14ers. Read my complete guide to hiking in Clear Creek County.
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The Next Summit (Alex Derr) @thenextsummit.bsky.social · 29d
Navigation isn’t a luxury; it’s safety. ⛰️

Map + compass + terrain reading > over-relying on GPS alone.

Read the full guide: thenextsummit.org/wilderness...

#TrailSkills #BackcountryNavigation
Wilderness Navigation 101: How to Find Your Way in the Backcountry | The Next Summit: A Mountain Blog
Master the fundamentals of wilderness navigation, including using topographic maps, a compass, and planning a route.
thenextsummit.org
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The Next Summit (Alex Derr) @thenextsummit.bsky.social · 29d
Most lightning “tips” hikers know are wrong. ⚡

Forget the crouch. Forget tents. Forget the myths.

✅ Start early
✅ Watch storms up to 10 mi away
✅ Get to lower ground + even tree cover

Stay smart, stay safe.
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The Next Summit (Alex Derr) @thenextsummit.bsky.social · Sep 24
Hiking high this fall? 🏔️ Altitude matters.

Grab my Altitude Sickness 101 Guide to learn how to prep, recognize symptoms, and stay safe:
thenextsummit.org/altitude-s...

Where’s your next high-elevation goal?

#Colorado14ers #AltitudeSickness
Altitude Sickness 101 PDF Guide | The Next Summit: A Mountain Blog
Altitude sickness affects 1 out of 2 people who climb a 14er, and 1 in 3 people who visit Rocky Mountain National Park. Learn how to prevent altitude
thenextsummit.org
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The Next Summit (Alex Derr) @thenextsummit.bsky.social · Sep 23
"Success in the mountains isn’t luck; it’s preparation." 🏔️

Next Summit Members get exclusive content, skill-building courses, & coaching to help you #HikeSmart and stay safe on Colorado’s 14ers. Plus, you support outdoor education & public land advocacy!

Join today: thenextsummit.org/membership
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The Next Summit (Alex Derr) @thenextsummit.bsky.social · Sep 22
Want to turn your 14er into an overnight memory? 🏕️

Here are 7 incredible overnight backpacking 14ers to sleep under the stars:

thenextsummit.org/14er-backp...

What’s one you’re itching to do? #Colorado14ers #backpacking
14er Backpacking Trips | 7 Great Fourteeners for Overnight Adventures | The Next Summit: A Mountain Blog
Most 14ers can be climbed in a single day - but it's a lot more fun and exciting to backpack them overnight. Here are 7 great 14er backpacking trips to take.
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The Next Summit (Alex Derr) @thenextsummit.bsky.social · Sep 21
Shorter daylight + colder nights = Fall is here. 🏕️ If you're heading out soon, don’t skip this:
thenextsummit.org/how-to-adj...

Gear tips, layering advice, and weather prep so your hike stays fun even when the sun sets early.

#ColoradoAutumn #FallColors
How to Adjust Your Colorado Hiking and Camping Plans for Shorter Fall Days | The Next Summit: A Mountain Blog
Learn how to adjust your Colorado hiking and camping plans for shorter fall days. Tips on early starts, proper gear, layering, and weather preparedness.
thenextsummit.org
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