I quietly celebrated my 67th birthday a few weeks back. I delayed my annual trip to Enchanted Rock due to way above average temperatures and the crowds that descend there during the holiday break. So this past Monday (January 12th) the forecast called for cooler weather and mostly overcast skies. Perfect for hiking the trails there as there is very little to no shade. It was in the low 40's (Fahrenheit) when I began and was in the low 60's when I finished.
First up was the Summit trail. 1.2 miles round trip 500+ feet altitude gain. I first did this trail for my 65th birthday. I had just started hiking and doing some simple workouts at home. It took me 40+ minutes to get to the top. I had to stop frequently and pick out the route cautiously. I was so proud though to have made it to the top. When I went for my 66th birthday my two youngest kids went along with me. I was in better shape and had been working out at the gym for about 7-8 months. I had also completed the Manitou Incline four months prior. it took me 30 minutes to get to the top. It was much easier and I didn't stop as often. This year for my 67th birthday I was expecting to do maybe slightly better than the last one. As I stood at the trail-head and looked up, I felt like it had increased in altitude by100 feet. I don't know why it looked so daunting, but I came to conquer. Conquer it I did! I only paused once on my way up and that was to check my pulse rate. I did it in 22 minutes. I was shocked, excited and proud that my fitness level had improved that much. It was so easy to do this year. Not bad for a 67 year old.
After completing the Summit trail I headed out on the Loop Trail. at 5.2 miles it is the longest trail in the park. It is a moderately easy trail with a few hills, lots of rock and gravel. The scenery is nice (even in the winter) and on a quiet weekday there were only a few other people about. It was a really nice hike and I completed it about 45 minutes ahead of my targeted time.
My trips to the gym lately are still a bit irregular. Life has a way of interrupting plans and schedules. Today I will be sitting home waiting for a plumber to come install a new toilet. I have also adjusted a few planned workouts due to just being tired and worn out. I had my flu shot last week and it hit me with a few restless nights and low energy so I skipped one day and lightened my workout on another. I did purchase a weighted back-pack. I'll have to wear it for short spells before I start working out with it on. I just will need to get used to it.
A few pictures from my hike....
