
Crestone & humbolt
Yes, we’re heading up a mountain that’s over 14,000 feet above sea level. And yes, you’ll sweat, scramble, and conquer some serious altitude. But here’s the thing: the mountain? Just the excuse. This journey is about getting quiet – away from the noise, the pings, and the daily grind – to hear from God and connect with each other. We’re following the same pattern Jesus set, stepping into nature to rest, to be with our Heavenly Father, and to build those life-giving connections with each other. So bring your sense of adventure, an open heart, and get ready for a few days that’ll refresh your spirit and destroy your legs.
Crestone: Not gonna lie, Crestone Peak is a beast. It’s one of Colorado’s tougher 14ers, but the challenge just makes the view (and the victory) that much sweeter. Come ready for steep climbs, high altitude, and unforgettable moments along the way.
Humboldt: Don’t let Humboldt fool you—it’s the “easier” one in the Crestones, but it still makes you earn it. With a solid trail, stunning alpine scenery, and a summit that delivers unreal views of the Needle and Peak, it’s the perfect mix of challenge and reward.
what to expect
Day 1: Road Trip and Base Camp Arrival
4:00 a.m. – Departure. We hit the road early for our 12-hour drive, loaded up with snacks, stories, and deep conversation. This first stretch is a chance to leave distractions behind and begin preparing our hearts for the adventure ahead.
Evening – Hike to Base Camp. Once we arrive at the trailhead, we’ll backpack into our base camp before sunset. There’s something holy about the quiet that falls here, surrounded by peaks and trees. It’s the perfect start to a few days of uninterrupted, no-distractions time with God and each other.
Day 2: Rest Day – Acclimation and Connection
All Day – Rest and Reflect. Today, we get to simply be. Time to explore, pray, and reconnect with God in the beauty around us, and to build strong bonds with the guys by our side. The goal is to strip away the noise, breathe in some mountain air, and enjoy the peace that comes from being fully present.
Day 3: Summit Day (and a Little Piece of Heaven)
Early Morning – Summit Climb. We start before dawn, making our way up this challenging peak, side-by-side. It’s hard work, but with every step, we’re reminded of the strength God supplies and the gift of brotherhood. Plus, the view at the top? Worth every breath.
Noon-ish – Summit. Up here, it’s just you, the guys, and God’s incredible creation. The world below fades out, and we get a taste of the glory and perspective that come from looking back on what we’ve accomplished together.
Afternoon – Return to Base Camp. After we’ve taken in the summit’s beauty, we descend, feeling renewed and ready to rest back at camp. The evening’s a time to share, reflect, and enjoy the bonds we’re building.
Day 4: Return and Celebration
Morning – Pack Up and Hike Out. We’ll hike out from base camp, recharged and refocused. But we’re not quite done yet.
Afternoon – KOA in Amarillo, TX. We stop here for a shower, a good meal, and one last chance to relax as a group. It’s a time to decompress, share our stories, and celebrate what God’s done in us and through us on this trip.
Overnight – KOA Stay in Amarillo.
Day 5: Homeward Bound
Morning – Drive Home. We head back, aiming to arrive by midday, taking with us a renewed perspective, real friendships, and a heart that’s had a chance to connect with God in a powerful way.
What’s included
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Group Gear
We’ve got you covered with essentials like a jet boil stove, a sturdy saw, a GPS device for navigation and SOS, a medical kit, and a water filtration system – all the tools for a smooth (and safe) mountain experience.
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Mountain Meals
Start your day with freeze-dried breakfasts, end with satisfying dinners, and on the final night in Amarillo, dinner’s on us to celebrate the adventure.
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Adventure Insurance
Includes emergency life flight insurance, giving you and your loved ones peace of mind. We’re prepared for anything, so you can focus on the journey ahead.
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Trail Certified
Earn your bragging rights by completing 20 laps on “Truth Hill” within an hour. With Mountain Men Certification, you’re cleared for both self-guided and classic planned adventures with us.
What You Need to Bring
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Personal Essentials
Think of it as your “I’m prepared for anything” kit. A rain shell jacket for those surprise mountain storms, solid hiking boots that are ready to clock some serious miles, and any other personal essentials you’ll need out there.
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Sleep Sack & Backpack
You’ll need both a sleeping bag and a backpack. Don’t have them? Don’t stress – you can rent from Mountain Men or bring your own cozy setup.
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Snacks and Lunch Fuel
Because even the toughest guys get snacky. Bring some quick, high-energy snacks and easy lunches to keep you going strong on the hike and up on the mountain. Trust us, you’ll thank yourself when that mid-morning hunger hits. And yes, beef jerky totally counts as a meal up here.
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Full Packing Guide
For a complete rundown of recommended clothing and gear, check out our essential gear list. It’s got the full scoop on what you’ll want to pack to keep you comfy, dry, and ready for anything the mountain throws your way.