Great Adventures in the Great Sand Dunes

For years now, I have been trying to go on a solo backpacking trip. I truly love backpacking and something (fear) has held me back from going on my own. Every summer I wimp out and stay home.

I finally did it. While I just stayed one night in my tent, and when I tell the story it sounds a little like a disaster, the trip was a huge success for me. I firmly believe that if you really love to do something, you should be able to enjoy it on your own, not depending on others to develop your passions. From working at Jax, I have come in to contact with several folks that are very passionate and knowledgeable about the outdoors. While they may be hard core outdoor enthusiasts and I consider my outdoor experience recreational at best, they motivate me to take control and do the things I love regardless of my surroundings.

The first night I was there I stayed at the Aspen campsite north of the dunes and it POURED rain on me. The second day after I hiked back to my car I went exploring in the dunes and after ANOTHER nasty rain storm, opted not to camp in the interior of the dunes and take me and the 15 plus miles I had under my belt back to Loveland so I could get in a little tubing on the Poudre with some of my buddies from Jax.

Check out my pics...

Climbing in the CO Sunshine

I got up early today with the gorgeous Colorado sunshine to go climbing with my friend Jeff. He's taken me before, but the first time I went I only did top-rope anchor type stuff.

Today was a little different. I worked on learning how to correctly belay someone else. I also did some climbing where he leads up the rock face inserting cams and gear, then I follow up it.

It was a trip. I wasn't too nervous about it since I had gone once before and he's a good coach to fit my personality, but looking down is sometimes a little crazy. (which you have to do to find your foot holds)

There is definitely a lot of trust involved in climbing, but I think its a great sport. And its impossible to learn on your own, you need good, experienced climbers to help you. I've often times thought it was a little ridiculous that I worked at Jax selling climbing gear but didn't use it.

I'm lucky to have the opportunity and I had a great time. I'm thankful Jeff is patient enough to teach me and that he's excited for me to learn. AND I was even more pumped that I got to do it outside (near Horsetooth) rather than in the gym.

Unfortunately I don't have any pictures. I didn't want to smash my phone on some rock so I left it behind in the car. Next time.