A heart’s memory The moment clarity sets over the town of Conifer and within a heart. PHOTO BY OMAYRA ACEVEDO[/caption]

Have you ever felt a sudden urge to yell from a mountaintop? I have wanted to many times. Sometimes to blow off steam and other times because I want the world to know how happy and grateful I am.

One of the first times I recall yelling from a mountaintop was while hiking with friends and their kids. We were at Meyer Ranch Park in Jefferson County. As I went back to look at the photos of that day, everything I felt and thought about came rushing back to me.

I was in a relationship I knew wasn’t going anywhere. Yet, I stayed, and I have no idea why. Though I regret staying for many reasons, I also know it was another experience from which I learned a lot. Perhaps, one day, I’ll have the opportunity to apologize to that person.

Of the four hiking trails in Meyer Ranch Park, Owl’s Perch, Lodge Pole, Sunny Aspen, and Old Ski Run Trail, I hiked the roughly two-mile Lodge Pole Trail. Pressed for time, I thought this easy-to-intermediate loop would be appropriate.

All the trails are short and connect in one way or another. After separating from the group for a while, I paused at the highest point to enjoy the view. Though the elevation gain is a mere 308 feet, it still provides a beautiful perspective of the area.

To my right, Indian Hills hid beyond the mountains. I’m not sure what happened, but by the time I turned to my left to view the town of Conifer, an epiphany struck. Right then and there, I knew what I wanted. I just didn’t know how to go about getting it.

That’s the thing about being out in nature. Even if I don’t find a solution, I always find a form of clarity. In one simple, peaceful moment, I felt clear and complete. Though the details were vague, I knew I had been given a path to follow, and it wasn’t the one I was standing on.

I took a photo to remember the experience. As I put the camera down at my side, I heard tiny voices yelling my name. I spun around to open my arms wide, and the two kids jumped into my arms.

We had a few laughs before yelling from the mountaintop, “Woo hoo!” It was a great moment and an even better memory to carry in my heart.

Meyer Ranch Park is a great way to enjoy nature year-round. Its wildflower-laden meadows, lodgepole pine forests, aspen groves, sledding hills, and cross-country skiing almost make you forget how close you are to the city.

Meyer Ranch Park is located at 10490 S Turkey Creek Road in Morrison. To learn more visit https://www.alltrails.com/parks/us/colorado/meyer-ranchpark.

When you’re in the town of Nederland, check out Mud Lake Trail, roughly three miles outside downtown Nederland. It offers several opportunities for hiking and enjoying some of Boulder County’s beautiful nature.