COOL TRAILS LESS TRAVELED

Those of us who enjoy running or hiking the unlimited trails available to us are likely to find the more popular trails crowded, especially on the weekends and yearn for the peace and solitude of either being alone or preferably sharing the beauty of the surrounding area with a fellow trail companion.

During the past several years I found myself venturing out into the unknown. Before long I had identified numerous trails that were rarely frequented by others. You may ask if sharing these trails is not self defeating. In a way it is, and of course I could respond that as long as the reader traversed the trails during the hours of darkness there would not be a problem. However, I will not say that because there are so many trails yet to be discovered. I'm just going to have to go out and find some more.

Many runners and hikers feel comfortable traversing the same trails, and that is fine. The trails I will talk about, however, in this and future articles can add to a menu of trails that vary in transit, distance, scenery, difficulty etc. I believe that variety and the adventure of trying new trails add to ones enjoyment and that enjoying what you are doing is an essential ingredient in continuing to keep on doing what you are doing. This is especially important when not only starting an exercise program, but sticking with it.

I spend a good part of my retirement years trying to be one with nature. Place me in the mountains, among the trees with beautiful vistas, aesthetics and sounds and I am a happy camper. I try to capture the best of this experience with a camera. In that way I not only can enjoy it again, but I can share it with others.

Please do not let snow and cold be a deterrent. If you are layered with cold weather clothing, have waterproof shoes with cleats etc. you will see and feel things beyond your wildest imagination. Snow covered trees, iced waterfalls and the feeling of fighting the elements and winning are just a few of the benefits.

I do run or hike by myself, often with a MP3 player. However, I enjoy being with another person for a number of reasons. Not only are you able to share the experience and have interesting conversations, but you can help each other out if necessary. It just makes for a more pleasurable experience while furnishing enhanced safety.

Every year you read reports of people lost in the woods or mountains. You read how they were not well prepared, did not have a cell phone, and had not told anyone where they were going and when they should be expected back. If you are trying out a new trail it is especially important that you bring, among other things, a map, whistle, hunter's knife, plenty of water, energy bars, mirror, matches, first aid kit, safety blanket and a GSP. I have used a GSP that fits on my wrist for years. It is very accurate and can be extremely beneficial if you get off the trail.

So welcome to the series "Cool Trails less Traveled".

THE TALON TRAIL

This trail is in Cheyenne Mountain State Park. Because the park is new (2006) the Talon Trail is not yet well known. It will be. The park consists of many trails, but this one was selected because it is lower than the others and therefore is a good trail for a winter hike/run. The trail may well be covered with a layer of snow, but it is doable.

You would be well advised to first stop by the Visitors Center to pick up a map of the park. The trailhead is just beyond the comfort station located in the main parking lot. There is an entrance fee, but a seasonal (Aspen) pass, at a discounted rate, is available for seniors (64 years or older).

The Talon Trail extends 2.64 miles in one direction. Towards the end of the trail you will have the option of adding another 1.6 miles by taking the North Talon Trail. The latter trail will eventually intersect with the end of the Talon Trail and the beginning of the South Talon Trail. When you get to the intersection do as Yogi Berra would say and take it. You can either return on the Talon or continue on to the South Talon Trail which will intersect once again lower on the Talon Trail.

The trails are well marked with small numbered posts that indicate the name of the trail as well as the GPS coordinates. There are larger more detailed maps at most intersections, but they can be confusing due to their orientation and the alignment of the trails. Hopefully, this problem will be resolved soon by their simply placing one of the smaller markers on the trail closer to the intersection. Until then just continue up the trail a short ways until you see a marker to insure you are on the desired trail.

Many times you can be on an enjoyable trail and just like a good book not want to see it end. One of the many advantages of the Talon Trail is that it gives you the opportunity to extend your trip if you so desire.

Because pets are not allowed on the trails in state parks you will have fewer interruptions when delighting in the aesthetics of the surrounding area.

In addition to the constantly changing scenery you will find yourself close up and personal with Cheyenne Mountain from a perspective you would not normally see. A good place to take it all in is the overlook just past marker #9 (Talon). It has both an educational sign and a bench. You will find some interesting features on the side of the mountain, and it is one place where binoculars will be especially helpful in their identification.

In terms of difficulty the trail is generally considered to be moderate with increasing but light hill work or elevation gain. To give you an idea, and I must admit to some surprise, I did pass a young lady pushing a baby stroller at a reasonably good pace.

You will pass through different kinds of terrain and vegetation. You will not find the trek boring by any means. There are benches at several points along the trail.

You can obtain more information by visiting the park on the net at www.parks.state.co.us. The phone number of the park's visitor center is 719-576-2016.

To get to Cheyenne Mountain State Park take Route 115. The park entrance is directly across from Gate 1 to Fort Carson.