National parks | haleycomet365

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It’s been a hectic 1.5 months since we got back from the trail. Nothing terrible, but not “normal,” whatever that is.

K was busy on the job hunt. We were supposed to go to the Pikes Peak marathon and have a nice, break from the heat, trip to Colorado. K ended up not being able to go due to interviews and work commitments, and I got sick. Really sick. It’s awful to think about, but I couldn’t get out of bed. I couldn’t sleep. I couldn’t walk. I deteriorated the whole week before I was supposed to leave (we had decided I was going alone, one of us should take the trip) culminating with a trip to the hospital the day before I was supposed to leave. So. There was no way I was running a marathon, much less one up to 14,000 ft. Anyway, I couldn’t function and was in horrendous pain. Fast forward a bit…we spent time in Ohio as a break from the heat, K could sail, I could get some hill training on the trails, see friends, and get some alone time.

Hard hills.

Big rocks and smells.

Safety first, little dog.

On the way I got another stamp on my National Parks Passport book. We camped at Mammoth Cave. I’ve always wanted to stop there, as we pass it every drive to/from Ohio. It is one of those things that we say, “We want to get going, we’ll stop next time.” And we never do. But we made the effort this time and it was worth it.

Mammoth Cave dork stamps and campsite.

So. Workouts! Now that most of my time is my own, I have no excuse. Before, I couldn’t justify going to a CrossFit box that was convenient, because K was working at one of the best facilities in the state. Unfortunately, that was an hour away and I loathe to drive an hour each way for a 1hr class. But, I also couldn’t justify paying for a place closer. Now, I can. I checked them out and it seems like it’ll do. Not the best, but the price is good and there are many class options and also “open gym” time for solo workouts or skill work.

9/16: (trying out a new box)
Time: 11:47, as Rx (35lbs)

I think that’s it for now. I know I’ve got some things I want to catch up on here, over time. Plenty to do today and tomorrow and a busy weekend! Now, time to do a workout.

The second day of our trip we only had one item on the itinerary: hike Angels Landing. This is a picture ~~only~~ heavy post. It is Friday, so I don’t want to make you work too hard. You’re welcome.
Besides, there really isn’t much to say…it was so awesome.

Obligatory handstands at the park entrance

We took the bus into the park and got off at the Angels Landing trailhead. It was at the bottom of the canyon, next to the river.

Going to that peak up there

One of the very few things we did ‘wrong’ on this trip, was stopping and goofing off before we even started making our way up the trail. We were so in awe of the beauty and rocks in the canyon. We had no idea how much better it was at the top. It was all gorgeous. We really couldn’t comprehend how amazing it would be higher up.

Rando climbing

Shouldn’t have wasted time.

More random stopping for the view

Climbing into holes! It was like climbing up into trees. Of rock.

Then we started the gradual climb up the rock face, then hit the switchbacks to get to the final trailhead to get to Angels Landing point.

Switchbacks

View down the switchbacks

Even the smooth switchbacks were STEEEEP

Once you get up the switchbacks, there is a big “waiting area” that offers great views. From there it’s 1/2mi to the “Landing”, the top of the cliffs. That 1/2mi is deceptive…it’s climbing most of the way. Narrow path and with people coming-and-going, one has to step off to the side, or cling to the chain, to let people pass.

Yep. Climb UP the rocks.

Not scary at all.

Nope. Not scary.

On your left…

HANDSTANDS AT THE TOP! Hollis got upset with me and went off to admire the views away from Teeej and me. Apparently, she doesn’t believe in dying via stupidity. I believe in Darwin.

View into the canyon

Same ledge, view from the way we came on the trail.

Some CrossFit ~~douchebaggery~~ fun at the top! And shocker, we weren’t the only ones. These guys stopped to talk to us after seeing me try some squats.

See, this guy was excited I was wearing Inov-8’s too. And he was proud of his shorts. We were actually stunned someone would wear these in public.