About
Stories From the Trail encompasses run lore, trail reviews, trail running lifestyle, outlandish adventure, and the everyday habits of a crusty trail bum. This is a place for visual stimulation to create a sense of wonder and for documented experiences to encourage all who embark on the dusty trail.
Words and visuals by Tyson Baker
The ESSENCE of soul running
A pure momment
At the end of my last post I closed by talking about the essence of soul running and I was inspired to write more about the topic. I've been thinking about it a lot-the true and pure reason why we run-especially those long ultra distances. What drives us to dig deep, put in the dedicated work to train hard, drive 3+ hours to a particular trail head because it meets our specific training needs, all whilst managing our daunting jobs, family, and other responsibilities? What creates that constant desire to push the limits of our physical capabilities and gives us these wild and crazy running projects we are regularly working towards? After thinking about it for some time, I came to the conclusion that it has to do with having a deep, genuine love for the sport. Nobody pushes us to run, we do it simply for the love of running! I'd even say it's more of an art form; we are the artists and running is our paintbrush.
As my mind continued to contemplate this I was reminded of an old Disney Channel movie called Brink. It's about Andy "Brink" Brinker and a gang of his teenage friends that love to in-line skate. Their love for the sport runs so deep that they claim to be “soul skaters,” meaning they skate purely for the fun of it. Any corporate sponsorship would tarnish the essence of "soul skating." They don't skate for the money, they skate from the heart, for the true love of the sport. But when Brink's family falls into some financial trouble, Brink believes he must go against his beliefs and join a sponsored team. When his friends find out they reject him, calling him a sell out, and he quickly loses his joy for skating. He eventually realizes his mistake and quits the sponsored team... putting the "soul" back into his skating. The point of the story is that you shouldn't lose sight of what drives you to do the things you love. That message is powerful. So here's to, in our case, the Soul Runners that run solely for the love of it! There's nothing stopping us and nothing we can't do. This is running in its purest form.
With new technology-namely exercise trackers and social apps-it's easier now, more than ever, to get distracted from the run. From taking pictures to phone calls to checking text messages... or constantly looking at data from our watches... these numerous distractions can make us lose sight of the reason we run in the first place-to simply be in the moment. I usually try to avoid these interferences, but sometimes it gets the best of me and I find myself absent from the run. In those moments I have to remind myself to have limits, respect my own boundaries, and shift my focus to the present movement. Like Brink-he skated for the love of it, no distractions. It's hard when we want to capture the moment to share with others later online (like me when I try to catch pictures for this blog to share with you all) but, more often than not, it takes away from the value of the run. When I run, it clears my head, I feel connected to my body and to the surrounding world. It builds up my determination and strengthens my mind! After all, running, especially long distance running, is a mental game. I need myself to be free of distractions so the run can be fruitful. Though it's a struggle to juggle both worlds, I've found it's worth it to limit anything that's going to take away from the run's pureness. Besides, I've realized that the more in tune with the run I am, then when I do take my phone out to capture a moment, I end up getting the exact shots I need since I'm more focused on my surroundings and intentional and deliberate in my creative process.
Beyond the confines of normality, I believe soul running should be a practice we incorporate into our training at least once a week to help clear the staggering effects of the weekly training grind. Shoot, go for a run without your watch for once and run purely by feel! Part of soul running is integrating new senses that we rarely, if ever, use. It teaches us to focus on our breath, rhythm, heart rate, and other body sensations. Sometimes our traditional day-to-day training can be a little stiff (and strict), leaving us in shambles when we don't hit our marks. Soul running is one less stressor to worry about in our training and gives us the clarity that we strive for. More progress with less complexity. Tapping into this principle of running will likely lead to a new rush of energy that's indescribable. An energy that makes you want to be up before the sun, run 13+ miles to the top of a mountain to catch the first light of the morning. Running shouldn't feel like a job and it definitely shouldn't feel forced. Though I know we all have those off days where we have to muster the strength and motivation to push through. In the end, I believe that if we just let the run be what it is, we will find more success and joy in our running.
So I encourage everyone to get out there, run for fun, distraction free, and put the "soul" back into Soul Running. Tune into the trail or road, let the run take control, and just float away. It doesn't have to be any specific training or any set pace, just a lighthearted fun run to be attentive to your senses. At the end of the run you might be surprised by your effort while also realizing it felt effortless. When you take away all the stressors that we usually put on a normal training run, you may notice new things you never noticed before, in a more clear, beautiful way. Running to a new melody that I like to call the essence of soul running.
Cheers,
Tyson
A Lone Pine Weekend
portal to a new puppy
My wife Ashley and I planned a trip to Lone Pine, CA during the second weekend of February. The purpose of the trip was twofold, we (my wife) desperately wanted to get away and camp–something we haven’t been able to do as often as we’d like in this season of life–and I was eager to scout out some trails for an upcoming race (the Wild Wild West 50k). Often, if I schedule a race far enough in advance, I like to train in the area a few months prior to get a feel for the terrain and prepare myself for the day of the event. The excitement to get out on the trail began to fade a little once we realized it was going to be a pretty cold and windy trip as an unexpected winter storm was making its way through the Lone Pine area. This weather was probably the worst condition to run in, as the body has to work twice as hard to battle the oncoming wind. Truth be told, once we got to our campsite and the reality of the weather conditions sank in, my motivation started to wane. I really didn’t feel like running. I'm quite the wimp when it comes to cold conditions–my body loses its drive and my mind gets hijacked by limiting, unproductive thoughts. This time I told myself I wasn’t going to give up. I mean, we already drove all this way. I needed to pull myself together. It wasn’t easy–for a good while I kept thinking how miserable is this?–but I ended up pushing myself to conquer what I originally set out to do, and I feel stronger for it. I still ran with a smile on my face and ultimately I didn't allow the cold to ruin the weekend. Things aren't always perfect, but persevering through the hard things is what life’s all about. This trip became a lesson to not give up when things get uncomfortable. I had to remind myself that I made my New Year’s resolution to “overcome uncomfortable situations.” And here I was, faced with the very thing I set out to overcome at the start of the year. I couldn’t go back on my intention now, only two months into the new year. I had to see it through, especially now when my mind was being weak! "Get comfortable with being uncomfortable" I kept telling myself. Along with that, a quote by Kilian Jornet came to mind, “I am not afraid to fail; to get lost, to dream, to be myself, to find. I am not afraid to live.” I echoed these words all weekend long as a reminder to keep me digging deep and moving forward. All smiles!
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We loaded the car Friday evening and began our three hour drive to Lone Pine. We filled the car ride with great conversations and created a game plan for the weekend. I already knew I wanted to run two sections of the course, so Ashley and I determined which sections to run–pinpointing the start and finish lines of each segment and figuring out drop off/pick up locations along the way so I wouldn’t have to double back. The plan was solid and allowed me to keep my legs fresh between the two runs. Excitement and nerves coursed through my veins as I prepared to run in the unknown and journey through the routes we mapped out. We arrived at the Tuttle Creek Campground around 9:30 that night, scoped out a campsite by flashlight, and paid our fee for the weekend. We decided to car-camp during this trip so setting up camp was quick and easy. We situated ourselves in the back of our Subaru, bundling up in our Groundwork sleeping bag atop our big, comfy Stoic Cloud Bed, each sipping a glass of Beringer Bros wine out of our traveling tumblers. We looked over a map of Lone Pine, scouting the routes one last time, before opening the sunroof and appreciating the beauty of the map above–the bright-shining stars illuminating the black high desert night.
"We looked over a map of Lone Pine, scouting the routes one last time, before opening the sunroof and appreciating the beauty of the map above–the bright-shining stars illuminating the black high desert night."
The following morning we awoke with the sun and warmed ourselves with some hot Sundream coffee (our favorite is the Casa Blend) and a breakfast burrito scramble. We each got seconds on the coffee–a must, for the simple fact that it was warming our hands between every sip–as we enjoyed the cool, quiet morning desert views. If you have ever been to Lone Pine you know what views I'm talking about. It's like aerial scenes from a high definition movie, but so much better as it’s right in front of your eyes with the pinnacle of Mt. Whitney towering high over you. As we took those final sips of coffee I figured it was about time to get my running clothes on and begin warming up for my first run of the weekend. I packed up my Salomon ADV 12 vest like I would for race day and filled up my flask with water and electrolytes (Hammer Mango Fizz). I threw in a few Hammer gels (Huckleberry flavor) and a Hammer Bar (Oatmeal Apple). I’ve trial-and-errored a variety of nutrition for my longer runs and I’ve found that Hammer Bars provide me with more raw, solid energy that can keep me going longer than gels, especially other brands of gels. This isn't an advertisement, Hammer Nutrition is just a brand I trust. Once dressed and ready to go, I set off on my run from the campsite.
Heading west up Tuttle Creek, I followed a series of dirt roads and smaller trails for about 3 miles, gradually climbing up 1,000ft in that distance. As I continue, I’m now around 6,100ft elevation and I hit my first patch of snow. The next part of the trail descents into Tuttle Creek, eventually crossing over the creek to meet up with Olivas Ranch Road. Luckily the trek across Tuttle Creek wasn't too bad–the snow was light enough to delicately tread my way from one side to another. It was surreal being in this area because I realized I was likely the only one around for miles, making it easier to engage all my senses and be cognizant of my surroundings; noticing little things I hadn't before, slowing my breath, and enjoying myself. Cautiously exiting Tuttle Creek and stepping onto Olivas Ranch Rd I was welcomed with a few easy miles before my last climb of this segment. I was in awe of the pure beauty I was surrounded in, just running for the joy of it. Sure, this run is training to prepare me for a race, but at that moment I just felt raw and uncompromised by any other thoughts. During the last few miles I felt well acclimated to the altitude, I was feeling strong. I met Ashley at the end of Whitney Portal Road, concluding my run at 6,500 ft. From where the segment ended I was able to see my whole 8 mile run from start to finish, a bird's eye view of a path happily traveled.
Ashley drove us back to the campsite and we made lunch on our little Coleman stove. I excitedly told Ashey all about my run and the things I saw along the trail. I showed her pictures and videos that I had taken en route. After lunch we made a pot of tea and basked in the sun, taking in every ray of sunlight to keep us warm, while sitting in our camping chairs staring out at the mountain range before us. We enjoyed a relaxed afternoon with no plans…
just time to be still and hangout with each other. After a while the sun hid behind clouds as it began to set and the wind started to pick up, gusting at high speeds every so often. To avoid cooking dinner in the wind, we decided to head into town a few miles away and go to the famous Mt. Whitney Restaurant. Aside from being one of the only restaurants in town, it serves up some amazing food with generous portions. We took our time in the restaurant, enjoying conversations with one another. We were happy to be out of the wind, hands warm again. After dinner we decided to walk across the street into the outdoor store, Elevation. The gear shop piqued our interest and I wanted to find thicker gloves to keep my hands warm for the rest of the weekend. Upon entering Elevation we were greeted by the cutest little puppy named Naka. She was a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, super playful and friendly, you could tell she was an adventurous little pup! We immediately fell in love with her. After playing with her for a while, I found some gloves and we checked out at the register and headed back to camp. Right as we stepped inside the car Ashley and I both looked at each other and said we want a dog like that! Sidenote, Ashley and I had been talking about getting a dog but had not agreed on the type of dog we wanted. Ashley had been looking into the spaniel breeds and after seeing little Naka in the shop, I think we knew in our hearts this breed–with its perfect size, friendliness, and playful energy–would be the best fit for us.… Back at the campsite we got ready for bed and cozied up under the sleeping bag. With the little service still on her phone Ashley researched Cavaliers online and searched for any local litters for sale. She showed me one puppy in particular that really caught my eye, one that happened to be located in a town on our way back home… We fell asleep with puppies on our mind and woke the next morning to a powerful, relentless wind storm.
This isn’t the first time Ashley and I have been in extremely windy conditions. We experienced 90mph winds off the coast of Oregon once for our anniversary, while staying in a cliffside cabin–a story for another time–but I had planned another run for this day so I knew facing these conditions was going to be mentally challenging more than anything. It was early and much colder than the day before as the wind chill dropped the temp below 20 degrees. I decided to just go for it and do the run first thing that morning. I quickly got dressed and geared up. Ashley dropped me off at Spainhower Park where I planned to run the first 8 mile segment of the race I was preparing for. The run would end perfectly at our campsite. I took off on the trail and Ashley headed back to camp to get some more rest and stay out of the windy weather. I was excited to see how this opening section would pan out. Not fully knowing what to expect, I set out with an extra layer of clothes than usual and my running gloves to keep me warm in the first part of the day. Man I’m sure glad I brought that extra layer! Typically I avoid too many layers because I know when I get moving I’ll warm up, but the wind this day was definitely extreme and would have been unbearable without an extra layer for protection! Yet again, there was a great big grin on my face. Though I was facing extreme elements, I couldn’t help but be excited and take in the experience as it was.
The first mile was nice and flat, a good way to warm up the body. Next, I came to my first climb of the day. I was a little shocked to find that the trail started going vertical, practically a straight 90 degrees, and it was all rutted up, soft, and sandy. I saw this climb from a distance and actually thought in my mind “I hope I don't have to climb that!” I mentally prepared myself just in case. Good thing too because the climb was unavoidable and I was ready for it; slow and easy steps. Turtle pace! This hard climb is the reason why I like to scout out courses before the actual race day. I can develop a better game plan. For this particular race I made a mental note to pace myself in the beginning of the race so I can better tackle this ginormous climb at mile two. My thoughts snapped back to the trail beneath my feet as gusty winds whipped me in the face. I'm now at mile 3 and navigating my way through the course. I'm slowly climbing higher and the wind is getting stronger. As I ran in and out of canyons I was grateful for the shelter it provided from the wind. As I continued along the route I ventured further and further from the canyons and was stuck exposed to the wind for miles. It was loud and my face was beginning to hurt, though I kept telling myself not to quit. Only two miles from the campground, keep going. Situations like this are necessary to test me mentally and prepare for challenges and obstacles that may arise on race day. If I can survive the suffering in my training then when it’s time for the race I’ll be ready for anything.
"My thoughts snapped back to the trail beneath my feet as gusty winds whipped me in the face."
I was happy to finish out this run and meet up with Ashley at camp. She had the car packed up and ready to go (we both wanted out of the wind now that the mission was accomplished). I quickly jumped into a down jacket for some warmth and we made our way to breakfast at a local cafe in town. While at breakfast Ashley told me she had messaged the seller of the puppy she showed me the night before. She explained that she was working with the seller to plan a time for us to go see the pup, hopefully on our way back home. Trying not to show my excitement, I just said a simple “okay.” I didn't want to get my hopes up too soon. After a hearty breakfast we made the drive back home. Ashley was able to secure a meet up with the puppy for the following weekend and the excitement started to build.
This was a fantastic trip to say the least, even with the cold weather and unforgiving wind. I got to run in a beautiful area, we camped under the stars, Ashley and I got to spend quality time together, I was able to prepare for my upcoming race, and we began the search for a new puppy! Life is what you make it and a simple trip into nature can calm the mind and bring peace to a busy life. We slowed down for the weekend and made the most of what life gave us.
For those that want to know, we went to visit the puppy the next weekend and it, unsurprisingly, didn’t take long for us to go full heart eyes with her. Within minutes we knew we wanted to take her home with us, so we made arrangements to purchase her and call her ours! I guess that’s why they call it puppy love… A spur of the moment decision, but everything felt right. With her in my lap we drove home. Along the ride back home we tossed out different names, but ultimately landed on Ember, Ember Pine. The name suited her, the glow of a tiny flame, a gentle warmth. Our new little adventure dog was inspired by our trip to Lone Pine so she was partially named after that trip as well. It’s been a couple of weeks of having her now and as we grow to know her the name suits her more and more as she’s quite the little ball of fire and loves to speed run through the grass!
Never in a thousand years would I think that we would end up with a dog after a camping + running trip. We came home and welcomed a new member in the family a week later. When the time is right, it's right, and a puppy can bring so much love to your life. We are blessed to add Ember into our pack and I can't wait to take her on some trail runs!
two Peaks
Oats Peak + Valencia Peak Loop
Milage: 12.33
Elevation Gain: 2,510 ft
Location: Montaña de Oro state park
If you've never been to Montaña de Oro State Park you're missing out on a one of a kind experience along the Central Coastal of CA. MDO offers numerous trails to explore with gigantic views of the ocean in all shades of blue that seem to stretch on for days; from Morro Rock to the North and Avila Beach to the South. The rolling green hills to the East never get old as you trot along the trails. Taking the opportunity to ascend to the hilltops makes for spectacular cinematic views!
10.01.22 - The day started well before the sunrise at 4:30am to make time for nutrition and liquid motivation (coffee) as I prepared to hit the road to MDO for a meet up with new trail running friends. Things started to electrify once I was on the road, bumping the new album from Khruangbin and Vieux Farka Touré through the car stereo. There's something about meeting up with new friends that gets you wired... or maybe it was just an excessive amount of coffee...
We met up at the Point Buchan parking lot around 8:00am, ready to tackle the Oats Peak + Valencia Peak Loop. After a quick jabber sesh, we geared up and set out on a 12+ mile mission. The first 2 miles from Coon Creek Trail gradually accends about 300 feet, which makes for a nice warmup before the first big climb to Oats Peak. A thousand feet of elevation are gained over the course of the next 2 miles, making Oats Peak a bit of a push. With friends pushing me along, I was able to slog my way to the top. Once through that first major climb, the rest of the trail feels like a breeze. Even climbing up Valencia Peak didn't feel so bad though you may be pretty gassed by then. Coming down Valencia is pretty steep and technical. I almost couldn't keep up with my legs as I was barreling down the hill. Thankfully none of us ate the dirt.
"Things started to electrify once I was on the road, bumping the new album from Khruangbin and Vieux Farka Touré through the car stereo."
Reflections from the run
I barley took any photos all day because I was just so in the moment of the run and enjoying the company of my new friends. Pulling out my phone felt like an unnecessary distraction. I was fully enjoying the outing without it. Sometimes phones and technology can be such a disturbance. So much so that we may forget why we run in the first place... A time for pure movement, to be in tune with the trail, to enjoy friendships...The true essence of soul running.
We finished our day along the Bluff Trail, cruising along pretty quick across the flat terrain; a nice change of pace after 2,500+ feet of climbing. It was the perfect way to finish out a long run! All in all Montaña de Oro State Park is a trail runners dream! There are a variety of different trails that fork off and link up with one another, making MDO a pretty versatile place to plan a run. It's a place you can put in miles and never get sick of the terrain!
Click on picture for a free download of the map.
"MOUNTAIN OF GOLD"
Montaña de Oro (Mountain of Gold in Spanish) comes from the golden wildflowers (Bush Monkey Flower) that bloom in spring.
Tour de Giant Forrest
Wolverton to Moro Rock
Milage: 13.00
Elevation Gain: 2,700+ ft
Location: Sequoia National Park
Starting at Wolverton lot, in Sequoia National Park, you head south along Alta Trail. It's a leisurely stroll to start out your run, then about a mile in you will pass Long Meadow. This is a great place to take a quick break and take in the view. As you continue down Alta Trail, at around mile 2.5, you will become surrounded by Giant Sequoia Trees; a serene moment that reminds you just how small you really are. This is another good spot to stop for a moment and take in the natural beauty of the Land of Giants. You will be entering the Giant Forrest as you hop on the Washington Tree Trail and Pass the McKinley Tree. Your stoke will arise as you start to pass some of the biggest trees in the world. At mile 3.5 you will pass by the old cattle cabin that was built in 1890. This cabin is a rich piece of Sequoia history that's still standing for our enjoyment. After a quick photo op at the cabin you will make your way down the Washington Tree Trail through the rest of the Giant Forrest. A part of the trail also passes through a Giant Sequoia tree called Black Arch. This was seriously one of the coolest parts of the run for me. Just beyond Crescent Meadow, the trees begin to thin out. You will be greeted by the sunshine the rest of the way to Moro Rock along the Sugar Pine Trail, so be sure to bring some good trail sunscreen with you. I like to use Tanri Outdoors!
"Your stoke will arise as you start to pass some of the biggest trees in the world."
Things to see along the way
- Long Meadow
- Congress Group
- Mckinley Tree
- Old Cattle Cabin
- Black Arch Tree
- The Three Amigos
- Moro Rock
- Circle Meadow
- The Senate
Reflections from the run
Mondays are meant for the mountains! I think the beginning of every week should start in nature-close to the elements that we sometimes forget are in our own backyard. Take time to get away from your devices, away from your social media accounts, and out of the house. Even if it’s just one hour, get into nature and submerse yourself.
For a free download of the map, click on the image.
Middle Fork Trail
Reece's First Trail Run
09.27.2022 - I woke up at 4:45am yesterday to take a friend trail running for the first time. It is a pretty special feeling being up before the sun rises and I wish I did it more often. I can't think of a greater way to jump start any day. I picked up my friend Reece and we made our way to the Sequoias. I planned for us to take a short 5 mile run through Middle Fork Canyon. Upon arriving at the trailhead, the sun started to rise and we were greeted with an amazing glow that peaked over Castle Rock. The wind blew on our faces as we ran through the canyon. We were blessed around every corner with the coolest views. We come down from the mountain feeling accomplished, making it home by 10am. Perfect timing to still put in a good day's work after our morning spent in nature. Waking up early definitely has its perks!
Reflections from the run
Like I stated, early mornings have their perks! There is something about watching the sunrise that gives me an extra jolt to the day. It's really how every morning should start! When I start my mornings early before the sun I end up more motivated to get things done throughout the day. I surprisingly don't feel any more tired than if I were to have slept-in those extra 3 hours. It's as if I have a spare battery that's fully energized for me to do more during the day. I fall asleep quicker in the evening and usually sleep soundly through the night without waking. So I challenge you, wake before the sun and catch a sunrise! Notice how alive it makes you feel.
