Elbert is a beast...I nearly pulled the plug on that one. And potentially should have? But was with (doctor) friends that I trusted to override my decisions if they were not great & just took it slow at the end. But hiking on tired legs having done a 14er two days prior, sleeping maybe 4 hours, and being emotional from a family member's death didn't make for a great day.
One thing I have learned after moving to Colorado and hiking regularly is that sometimes it is not your day in the mountains!
Cole, once again reading your story , especially this one, was riveting. Gut instincts coupled with your knowledge led you to the right decision. As you said, the mountain will still be there on a better day for you.
I'm in the process of making a big decision relating to my business. Should I continue the hike or bail with the changes in my industry pressing against everything I have done so far?
Hike well-rested — exhaustion is no joke.
Your ability to think clearly is your most valuable asset. If this is threatened, you absolutely must turn back.
Start early to leave room for error.
Pack enough food and water for the length of your trip
Choose a hiking partner who will respect your decision to bail.
Brush up on your first aid; help is a long way off.
Do not ignore warning signs; this is how good hikers get in too deep.
These questions are powerfully helpful when looking at my future and deciding to continue the journey. I realize this wasn't your intention, but it helps tremendously. Thank you.
This story is riveting and I'm sure extremely helpful to professional climbers. I applaud your love of and respect for the outdoors...and for knowing when to turn back. I'm guessing it takes a lot of strength to make that decision.
Much respect for honoring that inner voice that we often ignore when we want something else. Such an important concept and story. Thank you for telling it.
Elbert is a beast...I nearly pulled the plug on that one. And potentially should have? But was with (doctor) friends that I trusted to override my decisions if they were not great & just took it slow at the end. But hiking on tired legs having done a 14er two days prior, sleeping maybe 4 hours, and being emotional from a family member's death didn't make for a great day.
One thing I have learned after moving to Colorado and hiking regularly is that sometimes it is not your day in the mountains!
Absolutely! Glad you wound up pulling through on the trip! Thanks for reading!
Cole, once again reading your story , especially this one, was riveting. Gut instincts coupled with your knowledge led you to the right decision. As you said, the mountain will still be there on a better day for you.
Thank you for reading! I'll be sure to let you know when the better day comes, and I reclaim the summit!
I'm in the process of making a big decision relating to my business. Should I continue the hike or bail with the changes in my industry pressing against everything I have done so far?
Hike well-rested — exhaustion is no joke.
Your ability to think clearly is your most valuable asset. If this is threatened, you absolutely must turn back.
Start early to leave room for error.
Pack enough food and water for the length of your trip
Choose a hiking partner who will respect your decision to bail.
Brush up on your first aid; help is a long way off.
Do not ignore warning signs; this is how good hikers get in too deep.
These questions are powerfully helpful when looking at my future and deciding to continue the journey. I realize this wasn't your intention, but it helps tremendously. Thank you.
I'm glad this is something that connected with you in your day-to-day life! I hope this helps you make a decision you can be confident in!
Thanks for reading!
This story is riveting and I'm sure extremely helpful to professional climbers. I applaud your love of and respect for the outdoors...and for knowing when to turn back. I'm guessing it takes a lot of strength to make that decision.
Thank you! It was honestly one of the hardest calls I've had to make on the trails. I'm glad to know I actually am capable of making the call.
Wow the sketch is really well done !!
Thank you! I've been trying to practice more, I've neglected my art for a while with everything else that's been going on.
I feel like it also helps me stop and take in the view. Thanks for reading!
Much respect for honoring that inner voice that we often ignore when we want something else. Such an important concept and story. Thank you for telling it.