Instead I opted for a scenic trail run. I found a running club here that specializes in these kinds of runs, and decided to do the extended Rampart Range Road run. Their website has nice maps and trail descriptions.
So I started off making my way from Manitou Springs down the road into The Garden of the Gods.
The sun was shining and it was crisp 20 degrees F. From there I began the long climb to the top of Rampart Range road. At about 7000 feet (the run begins at 6200), the road became solid snow, but not icy.Around that time it occurred to me that I should have brought some water. Perhaps even some food. I had already been running for 75 minutes. Oh well, I thought, as I continued on.
Once at 8000 feet I turned onto a single track trail that wound its way through a canyon of red rocks and even an old mine.
After 2 hours, the run started feeling "long" -- a combination of altitude, HILLS, lack of fitness, and a lack of water - -all began to feel evident.
I was thankful for the two old(er) ladies I passed near the Waldo Canyon Trailhead -- I stopped them and asked if I could have some water. They happily obliged and I enjoyed every ounce (I drank about 8 ounces).
Not long after that came the highway crossing, more snowcovered hills, and the long trip back on the Ute Pass Trail. I made it to the finish after running for 3 hours. It was a beautiful trail run, with great views of the Springs and Pike's Peak.
Once back in town I stumbled into an Espresso Shop for water, two slices of bread, and a latte.
I think I had more fun than if I had tried to climb Pike's Peak.
A wonderful Scripture came to mind as I prayed and viewed the surrounding majesty:
"He who forms the mountains,
creates the wind,
and reveals his thoughts to man,
he who turns dawn to darkness,
and treads the high places of the earth --
the Lord God Almighty is his name."
Amos 4:13
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