Mountain biking the Monarch Crest Trail in Colorado

The Cliff Notes:It's strangely relieving to begin the journey when you've anticipated it/worried about it for so long, a GPS device is a godsend when wondering around in a white out, just because it’s snowy and overcast down low doesn’t mean the sun isn’t shining up high

Ski mountaineering Quandary Peak in Colorado

The Cliff Notes: 1) Pay close attention to road closures during the winter as it can nearly double your approach 2) Chocolate covered espresso beans are like steroids on a long climb 3) Mountain goats don’t need crampons to summit 4) Dehydrated meals can cause severe stomach issues resulting in an awkward/smelly bootpack 5) The route is the route for a reason… getting “creative” can come back to haunt you