Operation 14ERS

Operation 14ERS

August 23, 2025 | Georgetown, CO, USA

Distance: 8.8 +/- miles

Weight: 20 lbs dry

Elevation: 4,101 +/- elevation gain

Brief Start Time: Saturday, August 23, 2025 at 0300 hrs

Event Start Time: Saturday, August 23, 2025 at 0330 hrs

Start Location: Grays and Torreys Summer Trailhead Parking Lot, CO

Event Finish Time: Saturday, August 23, 2025 at 1300 hrs

Finish Location: Grays and Torreys Summer Trailhead Parking Lot, CO

Situation

Operation 14ERS is deceptive. The route is short at only 8.8 miles and the elevation gain is a manageable 4,101 ft, but candidates start the route at over 11,000 ft altitude and summit Grays Peak and Torreys Peak, both over 14,200 ft in altitude. Grays Peak, the highest point on the Continental Divide, and Torreys Peak, with its rugged terrain, are renowned for their breathtaking views and challenging conditions. Hiking at such high altitudes presents unique challenges, including thinner air, unpredictable weather, and increased physical strain, making this operation a true test of endurance and resilience.

Mission

Candidates must carry 20 lbs (dry weight) and complete the 8.8 +/- mile route in under 7 hours to pass and under 5 hours to earn the GBF Operation 14ERS Dog Tag. The winner will earn the elite Gold Dog Tag.

Execution

Candidates will meet at the Grays and Torreys Summer Trailhead Parking Lot. At 0300 hours, GBF Staff will give an event brief before answering any questions and releasing the candidates to begin the route at 0330 hours.

Service Support

Mapping. GBF events use the AllTrails app for navigation. To download the route from AllTrails, you will need to sign up for a membership. GBF suggests candidates have a paper map, compass, and GPS too.

Route. Ensure you download the map for offline use. Cell service is not guaranteed. The route for Operation 14ERS is here.

Weight. Candidates must carry a minimum of 20 lbs dry (i.e. without food and water) in a backpack. Weight vests or sandbags are not permitted.

Equipment

Mandatory Equipment

• Backpack (waterproof inner-bags)
• Phone (fully charged)
• Phone charger
• LifeStraw (or similar water filtration system)
• Head Torch (spare batteries)
• Hydration bladder(s)
• Whistle
• Compass
• Emergency rations (see below)
• Emergency shelter
• Personal First Aid Kit
• Micro Spikes

Strongly Recommended

• Maps (waterproofed)
• GPS
• Blister kit
• Pocket knife
• Chem-light/Cyalume
• Hiking poles
• MRE(s)
• Oxygen Boost

Dress. Candidates' dress will be a personal choice. The weather at the top will be cold. Have warm clothes!

Checkpoints. There are no checkpoints on this route.

Water. There will be bottled water at the finish point. Candidates should carry enough water to last the route distance plus 3 additional miles, in case they get lost.

Rations. Candidates should have a minimum of 3 energy bars and 0.5 liters of water as emergency rations.

Medical. Every candidate requires a personal medical kit. GBF Staff must be made aware of any medical conditions before starting the event.

Understanding Altitude Sickness. Altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), occurs when your body struggles to adapt to lower oxygen levels at high elevations. It typically affects those who ascend too quickly to altitudes above 8,000 feet without proper acclimatization. Common symptoms of AMS include headaches, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, and shortness of breath.

Recognizing and Treating Altitude Sickness. Spotting altitude sickness early is crucial for effective treatment. If you or a fellow hiker exhibit symptoms of AMS, the first step is to stop ascending immediately. Rest at the same altitude until symptoms subside. If symptoms persist or worsen, descending to a lower elevation is essential. Supplemental oxygen can help alleviate symptoms. Hydration, avoiding alcohol, and ascending gradually are also vital preventive measures.

Transportation. Transport to and from the event will be at the candidate's arrangement.

Command and Signal. GBF HQ: 941-993-9432

The Fine Print

Numbers. Maximum number of candidates 20. Minimum number of candidates 10.

Refunds. Refunds will be in the form of a GBF voucher to use towards future events. Refunds must be requested 30 days before the event start date.

Event Changes. Slight changes to any event including, but not limited to route changes, brief times, start locations, and other details are under the discretion of GBF Staff.