Hiking the Incline

One of my goals since moving to Colorado is to log some miles with my hiking boots. My ultimate goal this summer is to hike at least one 14er. In training up for this task I am taking on some "training hikes" to get acclimated. Last weekend I took a day trip with Justin down to Manitou Springs (near Colorado Springs) to hike the famous "Incline". The trail is a mile long vertical scar up the side of Pikes Peak made of railroad ties.

A railroad line was constructed on this slope in 1907 to aid in construction of a hydroelectric plant, and later used to take visitors to an overlook of the town.

The trail boasts 2,011 feet in elevation gain and is a booty kicker, but the views at the top are worth every quad burning step. The trail is not published in hiking books because the majority of it is on private property. A sign at the bottom blindly states "No Tresspassing" as thousands of eager hikers make the treck up annually.

We began the treck up the side of the mountain with Justin seeming excited, and me with dread in my tummy. I had attempted this hike once before several years ago when I wasn't acclimated to the elevation and feeling a little hung over from the night before. On that attempt I made it only half way up the trail and had to turn around at an intersection with the Barr Trail feeling defeated. This time around I was determined to make it all the way to the top - but I knew what was in store and couldn't help but feel nervous.

I stopped several times on the way up to take in the view (my excuse for taking a break to catch my breath). The steepness of the trail was dizzying and looking down while taking a breather made things worse.

We did make it to the top and I was elated. There is nothing quite like the feeling of accomplishment, especially when you are facing something that hes defeated you before. There is also nothing quite like the feeling of finishing a difficult physical task and having your endorphins pump through your system. It turned out to be a beautiful day and a beautiful hike. The goal of the 14er is inching closer - step by step.

Climb the mountains and get their good tidings. Nature's peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees. The winds will blow their own freshness into you, and the storms their energy, while cares will drop off like autumn leaves.

~John Muir