The Decalibron

Two weeks ago, I shared in my newsletter about my adventurous week in Colorado, where I tackled the challenge of climbing mountains that soar over 14,000 feet, commonly referred to as '14'ers.' In this issue, I will recount my experience with climbing the 'Decalibron' on June 28, 2020.

The Decalibron is primarily a loop trail that encompasses four notable 14'ers: Mount Democrat, Mount Cameron, Mount Lincoln, and Mount Bross. The term Decalibron cleverly combines the names of these four peaks. This hike is not only enjoyable and well-frequented but also presents a decent challenge that I believe will hook many adventurers on the pursuit of conquering the Colorado 14'ers. It conveniently allows you to check off three or four peaks (depending on your count of Mount Cameron) from your 14'er list.

To reach the trailhead, navigate to Alma, Colorado, and head west down Buckskin Street. This road quickly transitions into a dirt path (County Road 8), which is well-maintained and suitable for most vehicles, excluding sports cars. Stay on County Road 8 all the way until you reach the Kite Lake parking lot and campground after 5.4 miles. There are self-registration envelopes available for a small fee. I found it a bit challenging to stuff my envelope into the already full box. Luckily, there is ample parking, so there's no need to fret about finding a spot.

Soon after hitting the trailhead, you’ll encounter a fork where you’ll need to choose your path. My guidebook recommended traversing the route in a clockwise manner, starting with Mount Democrat, which is what my son and I opted for. ‘The Colorado 14ers – The Best Routes’ Following this path, the hike begins in a lovely flat meadow, adjacent to a body of water aptly named Kite Lake. However, it doesn’t remain flat for long. Before you know it, the ascent becomes steep, and you’re reminded that you're at a considerable altitude where the thin air makes breathing a bit more labor-intensive. Nevertheless, the effort pays off with stunning views of the lake and the valley framed by mountains on three sides.

After hiking for about an hour, you'll arrive at the ridge that separates Mounts Democrat and Lincoln. At this junction, you’ll need to take a side trail to reach Mount Democrat, which consists mainly of a steep and rocky ascent. Since you’re on a ridge, expect it to be quite windy. Undoubtedly, this section poses the most difficulty throughout the entire hike. After about another hour of careful stepping across rocks, you will finally reach the summit.

Once you've summited, you'll descend back down the rocky path to rejoin the main loop trail. On the day I tackled this hike, there were plenty of fellow hikers, which made it nearly impossible to lose your way. Although the trail can be tricky to follow in spots, just sticking close to the ridge line at this point will keep you on track. Mount Democrat and 14,155 feet above sea level.

At this segment of the loop, the trail climbs moderately toward Mount Cameron. I can’t help but roll my eyes as I mention this, as it’s just a small bump along the ridge between Mounts Democrat and Lincoln. In my view, it doesn’t quite warrant the title of a 14’er, given its lack of prominence and distinct separation. Still, I’m guilty of claiming that I’ve completed eight 14’ers in Colorado, which includes Cameron. It seems I straddle both perspectives—grumbling when I get a chance while also counting that as a victory.

From there, the trail becomes more level as you approach the junction for Mount Lincoln. Unfortunately, the signage along this route is somewhat inadequate, but fortunately, there were ample other hikers to follow towards Mount Lincoln. After the junction, the ascent gets steeper, though not as challenging as the path to Mount Democrat. Before long, we found ourselves atop Mount Lincoln, standing at 14,293 feet, the eighth highest peak in the Rocky Mountains. Mount Cameron Once at Lincoln, you’ll return to the loop and enjoy an easy, nearly flat hike towards Mount Bross. My guidebook noted that Mount Bross lies on private property, owned by a mining corporation, which has prohibited public access. A bypass trail was created to skirt around the summit. The book asked hikers to honor the property owner's wishes and suggested that one could still receive 'credit' for reaching the summit, even after taking the alternative path.

The alternate trail was intentionally designed to avoid reaching the summit. It gets very close—within about 50 vertical feet—but taking this route doesn’t substantially reduce your hiking time. Personally, I try to respect the rules on private land; if I’m visiting someone else’s property, it’s only right that I adhere to their guidelines, and I’d expect the same in return. That said, I can’t help but share a portion of Pete Seeger’s rendition of 'This Land is Your Land'.

“There was a tall wall that tried to deter me,

There was a large sign declaring, 'Private Property',

But beyond it, there was silence,
The Tale of Woody Guthrie's 'This Land Is Your Land'
I won't disclose the route I chose. If you decide to embark on this hike, follow your own judgment. I did observe around 40 people, not counting myself, faced with a similar ethical choice, and every one of them took the direct trail to the summit of Mount Bross.
That side was made for you and me.”

Source -- Regardless of your choice, the remainder of the journey back to the trailhead is downhill. Be cautious as certain sections of the trail may have loose rocks, making footing tricky at times. There are spots where the trail can be elusive. When uncertain, opt for the path that appears to be the safest rather than the steepest or quickest. It's important to remember that going along with the majority of hikers doesn't guarantee you're taking the correct route; this applies to any hike.

After approximately eight hours, you'll find yourself back at the parking lot at the trailhead. The entire distance of the hike sums up to 7.6 miles, which might not seem like much, but with a significant elevation gain of 3,300 feet at such high altitudes, it’s quite a feat. For further details, please consult

The Decalibron Trail: Mounts Democrat, Cameron, Lincoln, and Bross

Once you’ve wrapping up your adventure, I suggest you treat yourself at Lastly, in my previous newsletter, I shared my experience taking an IQ test in hopes of scoring within the top 2% to qualify for Mensa. I’m thrilled and somewhat surprised to report that I achieved that goal, though just barely. The threshold for qualifying as a full member of Mensa is an IQ of 130, which is precisely what I scored. I mention this at the end since I don’t enjoy boasting, but felt it was necessary to provide an update from last week. After receiving this encouraging news, I submitted my scores to Mensa and am waiting for a response. I eagerly anticipate engaging in their in-person events as soon as it’s safe to do so. .

Accurate mathematical strategies and information for various casino games, including blackjack, craps, roulette, and countless others. South Park Brewing in Fairplay, CO.

Please confirm your email and click the link we provided to finalize your registration.

Written by: Michael Shackleford