by Brian Bowles | Feb 29, 2024 | Wellness
The first memorable climb of the Colorado Trail (for me) started at about the 75-mile mark at Jefferson Creek. While it was a significant climb, I mentally prepared myself, and it turned out to be “not so bad.” However, it did get me to an elevation close to 12,000...
by Brian Bowles | Jan 31, 2024 | Wellness
“Hike Your Own Hike” (HYOH) is common advice from experienced thru-hikers to aspiring ones like me. The premise is simple: set your own goals and enjoy yourself. Don’t get caught up in trying to do your hike like someone else’s. It’s your hike. Do it your way. Of all...
by Brian Bowles | Dec 20, 2023 | Wellness
“You didn’t have cell service?!” “Did you download music, podcasts, or movies?” “Didn’t you take earbuds or something?” “Weren’t you bored to death?” I’ve heard all these questions and more regarding my hike of the Colorado Trail this past summer. When I tell folks...
by Brian Bowles | Nov 30, 2023 | Wellness
As I prepared for my thru-hike of the Colorado Trail, I knew that success or failure was largely based on my ability to mentally overcome adversity and discomfort. I also knew that much of my discomfort would be due to my physical shape. On past, much shorter...
by Brian Bowles | Oct 30, 2023 | Wellness
You don’t go on a 500-mile hike expecting things to go perfectly. In fact, most thru-hikers not only expect adversity, but welcome it. That’s why I chose to do it. I wanted to do something hard; something I might not be able to complete successfully. I wanted a...
by Brian Bowles | Sep 29, 2023 | Wellness
I recently celebrated my 15th year at MAOPS with a brief sabbatical to pursue a personal challenge I have been planning for years – hiking the Colorado Trail from Denver to Durango. This 500-mile trail traverses the heart of the Colorado Rockies through some of the...
