Gray's Peak - The Short Version

The Mountain

Some facts about where we went:

Grays = 14,270' (9th highest in Colorado)
Time: about 6 1/2 hours total from leaving the car until Tia got back to the car
Distance - According to directions, 6 miles. No way to verify this.

Our first trip, so here are the things we had, things we needed, and things we wanted.

Brought:

Water - 1 gallon per person. We drink a lot of water and were a little short. I'd bring at least this much and for us, I'd have another gallon in the car waiting.
T-shirt, shorts, sweatshirt, jacket - For each of us. It's cold at the top. We went in August, and the sky was clear. It was 100F in Denver and probably 50F at the top in the wind. Be sure you have a variety of clothes.
Running shoes - Not a great choice. We were thinking of the cushioning. On the north side this probably would have been fine. I wished for hiking boots on our trail.
Food - It's going to be a 5-7 hour trip if you are in shape. We eat every 2-3 hours, and took basically 4 meals, just in case. Plan ahead here.
Maps - We had a book as well as printed directions. Get something.
Camera - We had the digital, but don't forget to document your trip, at least for yourself.
bandages - For blisters.
Sunglasses - It's Colorado, enough said

Needed:

Dog Boots - If you're taking a dog, get some. It is rocky on the south side. Should be ok on the north side.
more water

Desired:

Altimeter - Most of our directions referenced an altitude. Plus it's cool.
Film Camera - Would have been nice to have high quality 4mm shots
Walking sticks - Woud make it easier, plus in case one of us would have sprained an ankle, this would have made the difference.
Gauze and tape - would have helped with Boo, but always a good idea.
Small tripod - It's a busy peak, but you might not have someone else handy when you want them