Last post on hiking in Colorado. I pinkie promise.
I spent a lot of time in my own head hiking Pike’s Peak. So, when I returned to the house (after a good shower, some good Rioja and something like 3 packages of Ramen noodles*) I sat down to try to wrangle some of the musings and metaphors that had kept me company.
Here are a few thoughts that bounced around in my brain. Some of them could be hokey leadership seminar themes or maybe even a motivational poster at a mall kiosk. Some are practical. Some have been omitted, because my parents read my blog. Here you go:
- If the people who went before you cut a good path and maintained it well, you can spend more of your time looking up and ahead—instead of at the ground.
- More often than not, those who created a trail had the next hikers’ best interests in mind. It’s not usually a trap.
- A log in front of what looks like a path means “don’t go that way.” See above.
- It always seems hardest to get to the top—and it is hard; you should take time to rest and celebrate at the summit. But always remember that going back down the mountain is sometimes just as hard. (Do not climb if unprepared to hike back down. You are your own rescuer.)
- Drink lots of water.
- Hiking shoes are for hiking. Running shoes are not.
- Balance poles are for everyone. They are not a sign of weakness.
- When you hike in Colorado and you catch a familiar whiff but aren’t sure if it’s an animal, relax. Chances are, it’s other hikers. Because, well, Colorado.
- Be nice to other hikers.
- Always share warnings, good advice and good vistas. Do unto others.
- “You’re almost there; keep going” is one of the kindest things you can say to oncoming hikers on the trail. The last stretch is always the hardest.
- Sometimes what looked like it would be the hardest is also the most fun, most satisfying, most rewarding.
- Bring an apple. It’s the most satisfying snack when you need a break.
- On the way up—especially when the air is thin and the climb is steep—take it a few steps at a time, and you’ll get there.
- All pain is temporary. Count it out. Get to 25, 35, 50, steps and rest. Then go again.
- A little fear is healthy.
- If there are donuts at the top, eat them.
*It’s a rule: When you hike Pike’s Peak, you get to eat whatever you feel like. I felt like eating 25-cents-a-package Ramen. Don’t judge. Do your own 14’er.
