Summit 2026

The vision is both ambitious and inclusive. Aspiring climbing teams from across Colorado and the country will apply for the chance to summit a fourteener as part of this historic event, with peak assignments matched to experience levels. The Commission’s goal is that every Coloradan finds their own fourteener. Whether that means roping up for a technical route, joining an organized group ascent, or simply embracing the spirit of outdoor adventure in their own way.

The initiative is being conducted in close collaboration with local nonprofits and outdoor recreation organizations, with a strong commitment to Leave No Trace principles, community well-being, and the capacity of search and rescue teams. Educational and safety messaging will be woven throughout as this a priority that aligns closely with CMC’s century-plus of responsible mountain stewardship.

Colorado Mountain Club is uniquely positioned for this moment. With over a century of experience leading groups safely into Colorado’s high country, a deep bench of trained and certified trip leaders, and a membership that spans every corner of the state, we are a natural partner for an effort of this scale.

CMC is helping coordinate organized ascents as part of Summit 2026, contributing our expertise in safety protocols, group logistics, wilderness education, and peak stewardship. Our leaders bring not just technical skill, but institutional knowledge that can make the difference between a meaningful summit and a serious incident.

This is also a profound opportunity to showcase what the CMC has always stood for: that the mountains belong to everyone, that the skills to climb them safely can be learned and shared, and that there is something irreplaceable about standing on a Colorado summit in community with others.

We Need Your Leadership

Here is where you come in.

Summit 2026 will only succeed with CMC leaders willing to step up and guide a team to the top of one of Colorado’s 58 fourteeners this summer. Whether you’ve led dozens of trips on the classics like Quandary and Grays, or you have expertise on a more remote or technical peak, your experience is exactly what this campaign needs.

The Commission is currently gauging leader interest and availability for peak assignments. Assignments will be tailored to leader experience, and CMC leaders will be among the first considered for this historic roster.

If you are a CMC-trained or certified trip leader and feel called to be part of Colorado’s sesquisemiquincentennial (yes, we’re going to keep saying it), we encourage you to fill out the Peak Interest Form below. Share your interest, note the peaks you’re qualified to lead, and indicate your summer availability. From there, the Summit 2026 coordination team will be in touch as the program takes shape.