For his senior exit project, Landon Snyder decided to take on a challenge that most people only dream of: hiking a 14,000-foot mountain. Landon chose to climb Mount Sneffels in Ouray, Colorado, a decision inspired by his love of nature and the breathtaking wilderness of Colorado.
“I’ve always wanted to hike, and I just love the mountains and being in nature,” Snyder said.
Preparing for a hike of this scale wasn’t easy. Snyder spent time learning about safety protocols, high-altitude weather, and the different classifications of mountains to understand the difficulty levels. He also focused on proper nutrition and staying hydrated.
“The altitude was definitely one of the biggest challenges,” Snyder said. “There’s less oxygen up there, and coming back down the mountain, I wasn’t fully prepared. I got a little dehydrated and even had cramps.”
The hike took around six hours to complete, with three hours spent going up and another three hours coming back down. Despite the challenges, reaching the top was an unforgettable moment for Snyder.
“It felt amazing,” Snyder said. “I felt so accomplished because it was tough. Not a lot of people get to do something like that, and the view from the top was incredible. It felt like you could see the whole world.”
Climbing Mount Sneffels wasn’t just a physical challenge for Snyder—it was a deeply personal journey that tested his resilience and pushed him to new limits. The preparation process taught him valuable lessons about discipline and the importance of being ready for the unexpected. From researching safety protocols to understanding the nuances of high-altitude hiking, Landon discovered how vital it is to respect the outdoors and the potential dangers it can present.
Beyond the physical accomplishment, Snyder’s adventure also sparked a greater appreciation for nature and its beauty. Standing at the summit, he not only felt a sense of achievement but also a profound connection to the natural world.
“It’s not just about reaching the top,” Snyder said. “It’s about the journey, the people you’re with, and the memories you create along the way.”
Snyder didn’t take on the hike alone. He was joined by his mentor and two others, which made the experience even more meaningful.
When asked what advice he’d give to someone wanting to try something similar, Snyder emphasized preparation.
“Make sure you know proper hiking safety because it can be dangerous if you don’t know what you’re doing,” Snyder said.
Snyder’s experience proves that with preparation and determination, it’s possible to achieve great things—even climbing a 14,000-foot mountain. His story is a reminder to dream big, prepare well, and embrace the adventure.
