Beauty on the Trail

I just had a question presented to me: What keeps me motivated?

There are so many things here that I honestly don’t think I can list them all, but I’ll try to tell you a few off the top of my head. I’m vain. I want to stay young for my age. I love a challenge. I’m fascinated with the process of training and what your body can do when you ask it to. I love medals, accomplishments and chances to humblebrag. I enjoy being active. I love the courage it takes to do hard things.

But I find a good chunk of my motivation is seeing sights that most people don’t get a chance to see.

Colorado has 1,000 beautiful spots, but you have to work to see many of them, and I’ve had the chance to see more than my fair share. Whenever I’m suffering through a long hike, run or race, I try to remind myself how fortunate I am and this is the price I have to pay to see the gorgeous scenery in front of me.

It’s September, one of the best times to be out on the trail and in the mountains because it’s leaf-peeping time. Some of my favorite memories of running or climbing come from September, when the aspens and their golden leaves turned a pretty spot into a gorgeous showcase I’ll never forget. I want to share a few of these spots with you. I’ve selected most of the spots from nearby areas, and I’ve tried to make them doable for most levels.