This column is titled "10 Ways to Help You Live a Healthy Lifestyle." Thus far, we have discussed most of them, including; Adopt a healthy diet, Nourish your friendships, Be pro-active in managing change, Communicate with others, Challenge yourself, Stay active - physically and mentally, and Don't let physical limitations isolate you.
This time it's about finding the "Steady Eddie" in you.
If you are into a workout routine, a routine you have adhered to for some time, you didn't get to where you are in terms of length of workout, number of reps, or level of difficulty without pacing yourself.
Your body is equipped with monitors that tell you to slow down when out of breath, or take a break when the muscles in your arms can't lift that dumbell as effectively as when you started.
Many times, in conversation with a hiker, the person will turn to me and say, "Would you like to go ahead of me because I'm slow." There is a phrase used over and over to friends, family, and fellow-hikers. "It's not how fast you get to the destination, It's how well you enjoyed the journey."
It's critical to focus on ones footing, balance, and most important, your surroundings. On trail, one should be fully absorbed in the moment by seeing, smelling, touching, and hearing all that nature has to offer.
As a proud "Boomer," I am not always impressed with the fast pace at which society moves. Those of us of a certain age, have come thru a period of exceptional growth in the information technology field.
Our kids (both are actually in their 40's but they are still our kids) faces are buried in their smart phones. They drive (against the law) with a phone to their ear...not where that second hand is supposed to be, on the steering wheel. Then there is texting, don't get me going on texting. Lets just say, I would not be disappointed if the capability for texting were to be gone tomorrow.
The next generation (our grandsons) can't get enough IT in a day. We attended a sporting event recently to watch our 12-year-old grandson compete. After the event, we were walking to meet him. As we approached, I noticed he was preoccupied by the overpriced, hi-tech, world-at-my-finger-tips device in his hand. It's amazing how kids can walk among a crowd of people, never looking up, eyes and mind riveted to a palm-size screen, all the while "Communicating" with somebody - that somebody is not his grandparents - because he just walked by us without realizing we were there.
OK, I got that all out in one paragraph. I feel much better.
When I was 12, if I ever dissed my grandfather (I would not even think about it), there would be h_ _ _ to pay. There would be a verbal tongue lashing from my grandfather followed by a swift kick in the a _ _.
There is no getting away from the hype from companies today. Time after time, TV commercials tell us...'Our product is faster than their product. Ours is smaller, lighter, it comes with more colors, and it's only dollars/month for a limited time, if you call today. GIVE ME A BREAK!
No matter if we are talking about vehicles, or running shoes, it's about how fast, how powerful, or how far it goes.
I'm no doctor but my suggestion is PACE YOURSELF, YOU KNOW YOUR BODY.
Thursday, September 27, 2012
Sunday, September 23, 2012
Want to get smarter...go hiking!
Take it from one who has hiked and backpacked many miles in the back country of Pennsylvania, Virginia, New Hampshire, New York, and Colorado. There is no doubt, when I look at beautiful landscapes, breathe in back country smells, the stresses of daily life melt away.
During my work career, it was common to have a weekend or multi-day trip planned on paper. When I needed a back country fix, the plan was already made. Now in retirement (6 yrs.), trail miles have steadily increased each year.
Where am I going with this? you ask.
I refer to one pleasure I get in the mail...Backpacker magazine. When I see it peeking out of a bunch of bills and junk mail, I immediately know what I'll be reading after dinner.
A recent edition featured a story about hiking. The title, "Hiking Makes You Smarter." If that doesn't make a hiker want to read more, I don't know what does.
The hypothesis: Exposure to nature causes significant measurable changes to the brain. You can think more clearly, focus more acutely, and perform to your maximum cognitive ability. Bottom line, wilderness makes you smarter. A number of studies have already linked wilderness exposure with stress reduction and overall happiness.
Wouldn't it be great if you went backpacking the week before the SAT's to prepare. According to the article, the field of study for this effort falls under what is called environmental psychology. The specific cutting-edge element is called environmental neuroscience. The focus is on how one's surroundings specifically affect the way the brain works.
As I read the piece, I thought about my most recent diagnosis...mild cognitive impairment. My wife and me sat in the office of a Denver Neuropsychologist, to hear details of the test she gave me. It was not the easiest thing to hear, that I did not do well.
Three days after getting the news, I was hiking in the Colorado back country. Learning in 2004 that I would live the rest of my life with Parkinson's was a big shock. I had to come to terms with it and accepted it. Now, short term memory loss.
The one thing that got me thru the days after being diagnosed was hiking. When I get to a trail head, lace up my boots, cinch into my pack, and adjust my poles, I have no problems. The fact is, I forget about everything that created stress and focus on my surroundings.
The article posed a question,,,how much wilderness do you need for a full dose of brain restoration, and how long does that dose last? For me it can't last long enough. I enjoy being last out of the wilderness on backpack trips. I take pride being in the sweep position when hiking with friends every week.
Researchers say all this nature stuff isn't all in your head. There might actually be some physical changes taking place when you get on trail.
Hiking with my family over Labor Day weekend in the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness, I was reminded that one pilot research group mentioned in the article was tested in the same Collegiate Peaks region a year ago.
What will we read next about this new frontier of brain restoration? Will there be scientific data proving that spending time with nature is recommended to achieve better grades in you most difficult subject. A day hike would help you be more relaxed when going to the biggest job opportunity interview of your life.
At my age (66), I don't see either of those scenarios in my future. What I can say is every day is a good day. Every day I hike is a special day.
During my work career, it was common to have a weekend or multi-day trip planned on paper. When I needed a back country fix, the plan was already made. Now in retirement (6 yrs.), trail miles have steadily increased each year.
Where am I going with this? you ask.
I refer to one pleasure I get in the mail...Backpacker magazine. When I see it peeking out of a bunch of bills and junk mail, I immediately know what I'll be reading after dinner.
A recent edition featured a story about hiking. The title, "Hiking Makes You Smarter." If that doesn't make a hiker want to read more, I don't know what does.
The hypothesis: Exposure to nature causes significant measurable changes to the brain. You can think more clearly, focus more acutely, and perform to your maximum cognitive ability. Bottom line, wilderness makes you smarter. A number of studies have already linked wilderness exposure with stress reduction and overall happiness.
Wouldn't it be great if you went backpacking the week before the SAT's to prepare. According to the article, the field of study for this effort falls under what is called environmental psychology. The specific cutting-edge element is called environmental neuroscience. The focus is on how one's surroundings specifically affect the way the brain works.
As I read the piece, I thought about my most recent diagnosis...mild cognitive impairment. My wife and me sat in the office of a Denver Neuropsychologist, to hear details of the test she gave me. It was not the easiest thing to hear, that I did not do well.
Three days after getting the news, I was hiking in the Colorado back country. Learning in 2004 that I would live the rest of my life with Parkinson's was a big shock. I had to come to terms with it and accepted it. Now, short term memory loss.
The one thing that got me thru the days after being diagnosed was hiking. When I get to a trail head, lace up my boots, cinch into my pack, and adjust my poles, I have no problems. The fact is, I forget about everything that created stress and focus on my surroundings.
The article posed a question,,,how much wilderness do you need for a full dose of brain restoration, and how long does that dose last? For me it can't last long enough. I enjoy being last out of the wilderness on backpack trips. I take pride being in the sweep position when hiking with friends every week.
Researchers say all this nature stuff isn't all in your head. There might actually be some physical changes taking place when you get on trail.
Hiking with my family over Labor Day weekend in the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness, I was reminded that one pilot research group mentioned in the article was tested in the same Collegiate Peaks region a year ago.
What will we read next about this new frontier of brain restoration? Will there be scientific data proving that spending time with nature is recommended to achieve better grades in you most difficult subject. A day hike would help you be more relaxed when going to the biggest job opportunity interview of your life.
At my age (66), I don't see either of those scenarios in my future. What I can say is every day is a good day. Every day I hike is a special day.
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
Nature at her Best - Indian Peaks Wilderness
We pass thru downtown Eldora, stopping briefly at the only STOP sign (a four-way) in town. Minutes later we are bouncing around like mountain goats in a runaway boxcar. The bouncing continues for over four miles before arriving at the trail head..
Fact or fiction, depending on who you talk to about the 4th of July trail head, there have been occasions where snow was still on trails long into June. Thus the reason many do not to go there until after the 4th. We did see snow, if only a field of it tucked away high on a steep slope across the valley.
Today, it was the Aspen show, on stage. It was a thrill to see the entire show up close.
The trek today is about 2.6 miles from trail head (10,000') to the lake (11,560'). A number of traditionally wet areas are fitted with wood planks, making progress in these areas a piece of cake. A combination of switchbacks and winding trail takes hikers under a fairly constant canopy as it makes a moderate climb along the western slope of Bald Mountain (11,340')..
Looking across the valley, the Continental Divide runs along the crest of Devils Thumb and Devils Thumb Pass, then south to Rollins Pass.
Within the first mile, a long braided waterfall tumbles from the top of the mountain on the far side. According to the map, it's the outflow of none other than Diamond Lake. Thru the trees, Mount Neva (12,814'), can be seen displaying it's unique eastern ridge.
At times, the sound of rushing water from Middle Boulder Creek can be heard below. To the left of Mt. Neva is Devils Thumb (12,236') as it juts up its distinctive form.
A number of streams will be crossed, all on log bridges...at least one of which has succumbed to the weight of hikers, or maybe an elk. Three logs, all fractured midway across the creek. We walk down to the water then up to the bank on the other side.
Just over the mile mark, trail splits. Diamond Lake Trail turns south to cross the valley. Next, something that makes hikers cringe...trail drops quickly about 500' to a bridge across the North Fork of South Boulder Creek. Up stream, a fast-running water fall can be seen.
Along the way, numerous features, i.e. exposed rock and roots, large rock steps, mountain springs running across trail, and then there are the views.
Reason to either slow down or stop to fully enjoy them.
Soon we cross the edge of a grassy meadow. Diamond Lake is not far away.
Then, a speck of bright blue appears. "We are here," one hiker is heard saying. Now all the tipped toes on rocks during the climb, the near falls when your boot got caught between two rocks, and don't forget all the sweat, was all worth it.
The lake lies at timberline in a rocky basin.
After lunch, Harold and Raheam took a brief walk around the feeder end of the lake. He told me later, he saw trout in the lake. In fact we learned the lake is stocked with Rainbow, Brook, and Cutthroat trout.
In may ways, this hike provides numerous opportunities for great camera shots. Today was a good day for the camera...the shutter closed 86 times. Twelve were deleted.
We asked for feedback on the day. Judy Shaw said, "I loved the great views both on the hike and up at the lake. The lake and it's surroundings are really beautiful."
This colorful show is currently running all day every day on the biggest stage you will find in Colorado. Every scene has been perfectly designed and beautifully arranged. Set colors are rich and pure. You add the dialog. No tickets required.
When asked for one word to describe their experience, there was no surprise what hikers said, "Awesome."
Total Miles = 5.3
Total elevation gain = 1,500'
Fact or fiction, depending on who you talk to about the 4th of July trail head, there have been occasions where snow was still on trails long into June. Thus the reason many do not to go there until after the 4th. We did see snow, if only a field of it tucked away high on a steep slope across the valley.
Today, it was the Aspen show, on stage. It was a thrill to see the entire show up close.
 |
| Nancy and Harold follow one of the wood plank paths. |
 |
| Johanna is fully absorbed in the moment. |
The trek today is about 2.6 miles from trail head (10,000') to the lake (11,560'). A number of traditionally wet areas are fitted with wood planks, making progress in these areas a piece of cake. A combination of switchbacks and winding trail takes hikers under a fairly constant canopy as it makes a moderate climb along the western slope of Bald Mountain (11,340')..
Looking across the valley, the Continental Divide runs along the crest of Devils Thumb and Devils Thumb Pass, then south to Rollins Pass.
Within the first mile, a long braided waterfall tumbles from the top of the mountain on the far side. According to the map, it's the outflow of none other than Diamond Lake. Thru the trees, Mount Neva (12,814'), can be seen displaying it's unique eastern ridge.
At times, the sound of rushing water from Middle Boulder Creek can be heard below. To the left of Mt. Neva is Devils Thumb (12,236') as it juts up its distinctive form.
A number of streams will be crossed, all on log bridges...at least one of which has succumbed to the weight of hikers, or maybe an elk. Three logs, all fractured midway across the creek. We walk down to the water then up to the bank on the other side.
Just over the mile mark, trail splits. Diamond Lake Trail turns south to cross the valley. Next, something that makes hikers cringe...trail drops quickly about 500' to a bridge across the North Fork of South Boulder Creek. Up stream, a fast-running water fall can be seen.
 |
| Standing on a log bridge, Bob is thinking about coming back to fish. |
Along the way, numerous features, i.e. exposed rock and roots, large rock steps, mountain springs running across trail, and then there are the views.
Reason to either slow down or stop to fully enjoy them.
Soon we cross the edge of a grassy meadow. Diamond Lake is not far away.
Then, a speck of bright blue appears. "We are here," one hiker is heard saying. Now all the tipped toes on rocks during the climb, the near falls when your boot got caught between two rocks, and don't forget all the sweat, was all worth it.
The lake lies at timberline in a rocky basin.
 |
| "WOW," Nancy remarks, while getting her first glimpse of the lake. |
After lunch, Harold and Raheam took a brief walk around the feeder end of the lake. He told me later, he saw trout in the lake. In fact we learned the lake is stocked with Rainbow, Brook, and Cutthroat trout.
 |
| Bob scans the crystal clear water for trout. |
In may ways, this hike provides numerous opportunities for great camera shots. Today was a good day for the camera...the shutter closed 86 times. Twelve were deleted.
 |
| Looking east to the water outlet point. |
We asked for feedback on the day. Judy Shaw said, "I loved the great views both on the hike and up at the lake. The lake and it's surroundings are really beautiful."
 |
| Front row (L to R): Raheal, Clietta, Johanna, and Elizabeth. Back row: Judy, Nancy, Ed, Gary1, Jill, Bob and Harold |
 |
| The aspen show continues. |
 |
| One act after another.. |
 |
| The shows claim to fame...magnificent color. |
When asked for one word to describe their experience, there was no surprise what hikers said, "Awesome."
Total Miles = 5.3
Total elevation gain = 1,500'
Thursday, September 13, 2012
French Gulch...a one-time miners dream
 |
| View of Humbug Hill from the jeep road. |
Smart hikers know it will be quite different in the high country. Like today, temperatures in the sixties, and factor in wind chill, you guessed it, extra protection. Although things like ear muffs and gloves don't necessarily help an "ouch" or two in your joints.
Shades of green are quickly being replaced with shades of fall. Another eye-pleasing reminder that summer is over. Yes, the Aspen are at their peak. It's what draws Colorodans out to places like Kenosha pass, and RMNP.
 |
| Trail continues beyond treeline. |
We were not disappointed at the display of color outside Breckenridge today. In fact, twelve members of the HCH group made the trip.
Beginning at the trailhead (10,355'), for .8 mi., there was no denying, fall has arrived.
After passing a gate into the White River National Forest, a number of upscale cabins can be seen thru the trees. These properties are old mining claims that have been passed down thru the generations. The lucky few who have inherited these exceptionally beautiful slices of land, have privacy, and immediate access to an area of Colorado backcountry, literally at their doorstep.
At 2.5 miles, trail enters an open meadow and at 3.5 mi. we are at treeline.
| One of a number of cabins in the gulch. |
Limited views of Mt. Baldy (11,001') can be seen at a few places from French Gulch Road.
Bearing right at a "Y" in the road, and looking up to the left of French Pass (12,046') in the distance, is Mt. Guyot (13,370').
 |
| Shallow water on trail. |
After crossing a few wet areas and some small creeks, the jeep road begins to fade, leaving a carved out footpath all the way to French Pass (11,779'). We cross the headwaters of those small creeks further up the slope.
The sound of rushing water is one that never gets old or boring. It's a sound that makes one feel as if you are in a more remote place than maybe you are. When in fact, the T. H. is only a few minutes drive from the Breckenridge city limits.
Gold was originally discovered in 1860 by none other than French Pete. The area was rich in gold, silver, lead, and zinc. Today, the gulch is littered with mine tailings that can be seen from trail.
 |
| Penny and Marsha are glad they packed a few more items. |
In less than two hours, we have gained almost 700' elevation. Some are ready for lunch and decide to remain in an area with some protection from weather should some roll in.
 |
| Bald Mountain ahead and French Pass at far left.. |
The rest of the group move on up the slope another .5 mi. to French Pass.
Six made it to the top, including Nancy Bralic, who was asked to describe her experience. She told me, "The view looking back was spectacular of course and we could see all the way to the ski runs in Breckenridge. The final ascension was harder for me but I took it slow and made it. It was quite windy and cold at the top, and it wasn't just me that thought that. Ed had on a few more layers by the time I got up there.
 |
| Adding to a carin atop the pass is tradition...and a celebration of sort. |
We all placed a rock on the carin at the top. We all huddled together, out of the wind, a little lower down for a quick lunch since dark clouds were coming in. There was a little light rain at the top and coming back down! It was a great hike!"
 |
| Love to spend time here...in the gulch. |
The early morning forecast called for 30% chance of rain in the high country by 11 a.m. Fortunately, we only got a few scattered drops. What made things a bit uncomfortable was the stiff breeze. It caused some to pull out the fleece, gloves, and ear muffs. One hiker recorded 66 degrees around mid-day.
 |
| Reminder of how beautiful Colorado is. We took our good old time coming back to the T. H. Guess why! Total Miles = 7.4 mi. Total Elevation gain = 820' |
Thursday, September 6, 2012
Wilder Gulch Trail - Vail Pass
Quick easy trail access from I 70, and likely the best (cleanest) pit stop facility of any hike this year, started the day off right. The nondescript trailhead (10,500'), begins at the edge of the lower level parking lot.
A walk through willow shrubs and a number of muddy spring crossings keeps our focus on how and where we step. Within a half mile from the TH, we reach the first major drainage, this is Wilder Gulch. From here, we begin the steady climb up to the saddle, and on to Machine Gun Ridge.
The swoooosh of fast-moving vehicles begins to dissapate. The sounds of civilization are replaced with the flapping noise of a bird and occasional chatter of a pocket of hikers.
Here, a stream is punctuated with a number of meticulusly constructed beaver ponds.
Trail is not difficult today. In fact this trail is rated "easy" in a number of on-line sites.
Twelve HCH members, including two first-timers (Jill and Ed2) enjoyed the day. Our destination, a saddle in the distance between Ptarmigian Hill (12,143') and Machine Gun Ridge. On the day, just over 1,000' elevation gain would be achieved..
After 2.3 mi. trail continues to climb on a dirt road, that winds its way to Ptarmigan Pass (11,765'). The Pass offers a good view of the Sawatch Range and the west side of the Gore Range.
At the top of the gulch, the dirt road continues down the back side of the pass. A number of people on ATV's arrive, take a break, then move on. While we are having lunch, a family of tourists arrives. They are on a jeep tour based in Leadville.
Despite the stiff cool breeze, four hearty trekkers, including first time hiker, Ed Ryan decide to continue another mile+ up to the top of Ptarmigan Pass. As we watch them climb, their images become nothing more than a mere black dot on the horizon.
Note: The 10th Mountain Division was first formed in 1943, at Camp Hale, Colorado. Troops trained for a year in this area, honing their skiing, rock climbing, and cold weather survival skills. The area was chosen because of its terrain and harsh winter conditions. Skills learned here would prove to be vital to men in the 10th. They would soon be tested in combat.
The division entered combat in January, 1945, in the North Apennine Mountains of Italy. They faced German positions along a 5 mile long ridge. Scouting reports indicated if the men could make a 1,500' vertical assent, they would surprise the Germans. What made their job difficult and risky, the assent would be made at night.
On February 18, 1945, all the training they had done in Colorado paid off. The Germans never thought allied troops would make such a risky move. The night assent was successful.
The fighting was fierce as German troops made seven counter attacks over two days. Over 500 men of the 10th were killed, wounded or missing after the first day.
Despite heavy losses, their training, discipline, and determination helped the 10th destroy five elite German divisions. In 114 days of combat, the 10th Dvision suffered 992 killed in action, 4,154 wounded.
The unit was sent to Camp Carson, Colorado, where on November 30, 1945, the 10th Mountain Division was disbanded. The unit was officially reactivated, in 1985, at Fort Drum, New York, as the 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry).
It was a privilege to walk the grounds where boys became men. One of many stories is that of PFC John D. Magrath. After killing two, wounding three, and capturing one German soldier, as he was crossing an open field, two mortar rounds landed at his feet, killing him instantly. Magrath, age 19, was awarded the Medal of Honor, posthumously.
Total Miles = 7.6
A walk through willow shrubs and a number of muddy spring crossings keeps our focus on how and where we step. Within a half mile from the TH, we reach the first major drainage, this is Wilder Gulch. From here, we begin the steady climb up to the saddle, and on to Machine Gun Ridge.
 |
| Ed1 leads the way thru willow and a bog-like section, followed by Raheal, Marsha, Jill, Betty, Ed2, Mary Ky, and Kathy |
The swoooosh of fast-moving vehicles begins to dissapate. The sounds of civilization are replaced with the flapping noise of a bird and occasional chatter of a pocket of hikers.
 |
| Last view of I-70 at least for a few hours. |
Here, a stream is punctuated with a number of meticulusly constructed beaver ponds.
Trail is not difficult today. In fact this trail is rated "easy" in a number of on-line sites.
Twelve HCH members, including two first-timers (Jill and Ed2) enjoyed the day. Our destination, a saddle in the distance between Ptarmigian Hill (12,143') and Machine Gun Ridge. On the day, just over 1,000' elevation gain would be achieved..
 |
| Trail follows the contour of the slope. |
After 2.3 mi. trail continues to climb on a dirt road, that winds its way to Ptarmigan Pass (11,765'). The Pass offers a good view of the Sawatch Range and the west side of the Gore Range.
 |
| On approach to the saddle below Machine Gun Ridge, Mary Kay and Jill (midway up the slope) are followed by Kathy (foreground). |
At the top of the gulch, the dirt road continues down the back side of the pass. A number of people on ATV's arrive, take a break, then move on. While we are having lunch, a family of tourists arrives. They are on a jeep tour based in Leadville.
Despite the stiff cool breeze, four hearty trekkers, including first time hiker, Ed Ryan decide to continue another mile+ up to the top of Ptarmigan Pass. As we watch them climb, their images become nothing more than a mere black dot on the horizon.
 |
| The scene looking down from the saddle. |
 |
| From the saddle, three hikers scouted the top at x,xxx' el. |
Note: The 10th Mountain Division was first formed in 1943, at Camp Hale, Colorado. Troops trained for a year in this area, honing their skiing, rock climbing, and cold weather survival skills. The area was chosen because of its terrain and harsh winter conditions. Skills learned here would prove to be vital to men in the 10th. They would soon be tested in combat.
The division entered combat in January, 1945, in the North Apennine Mountains of Italy. They faced German positions along a 5 mile long ridge. Scouting reports indicated if the men could make a 1,500' vertical assent, they would surprise the Germans. What made their job difficult and risky, the assent would be made at night.
On February 18, 1945, all the training they had done in Colorado paid off. The Germans never thought allied troops would make such a risky move. The night assent was successful.
The fighting was fierce as German troops made seven counter attacks over two days. Over 500 men of the 10th were killed, wounded or missing after the first day.
Despite heavy losses, their training, discipline, and determination helped the 10th destroy five elite German divisions. In 114 days of combat, the 10th Dvision suffered 992 killed in action, 4,154 wounded.
The unit was sent to Camp Carson, Colorado, where on November 30, 1945, the 10th Mountain Division was disbanded. The unit was officially reactivated, in 1985, at Fort Drum, New York, as the 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry).
It was a privilege to walk the grounds where boys became men. One of many stories is that of PFC John D. Magrath. After killing two, wounding three, and capturing one German soldier, as he was crossing an open field, two mortar rounds landed at his feet, killing him instantly. Magrath, age 19, was awarded the Medal of Honor, posthumously.
 |
| Seated L to R: Kathy, Betty, Marsha, Johanna;Standing, L to R: John, Mary Kay, Gary1 (peeking oiut from behind), Ed2, Raheel, Ed1, and Jill |
Total Miles = 7.6
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)