On the 3rd day of this week 14ers climbing spree I decided to climb Mount Yale. While at 2AM it was around 45F at trailhead and no wind I decided to wear some tights to keep legs warm at the summit. Good choice, it was cold and windy at the top and I try to spend time to enjoy the summit (how often do you get there?), especially when you get there way before sunrise.
The hike to Yale is pretty straight forward. Very good trail all the way to the last climb, which is all large boulder traverse, it was fun part in complete darkness, I had to turn my headlight all the way up to spot the cairns…and notice to the side drops of darkness… not where you go, haha
My 22nd 14er overall and was fifth this week. 30 something to go 
On the first photo you can see Buena Vista down in the valley. On the second one I’m looking at Mount Harvard and Columbia. So close yet far away!
Btw, if you do this one, highly recommend to stop at the Cottonwood Hotsprings Spa..get a day pass and soak your mussels and joints in nice 106F temps pool.
