It’s time to leave the stressful part of life behind and explore my favorite place in Colorado: Rocky Mountain National Park. I enjoy many outdoor activities, but hiking is undeniably top of my list. Sadly, I haven’t done much of it this year, and it’s already August.

So, I’ve decided to dedicate every Sunday to hiking. I love the sound of my boot making contact with the rocky terrain. I love the sweet scent of fir and pine hitting me as I deeply inhale. I love feeling my heart pound against my chest as I struggle to reach a destination with over 20 pounds of water, snacks, and camera equipment on my back.

I’ve driven past the Twin Sisters Trailhead across Lily Lake many times but never made time to make the seven-mile trek. That was until the end of July when the hiking bug hit me, and I had to embark on an outdoor adventure!

Take note: you don’t have to park across Lily Lake. You can drive up the dirt road and park along the right side closer to the trailhead. Once at the trailhead (9,090 feet), I hiked only a few minutes before arriving at the trail kiosk on the left.

A little over a mile into the hike, I reached the massive landslide area caused by the 2013 flood, which can be seen as you’re driving on Highway 7. A series of switchbacks ensued, and the elevation gain became real. I was panting harder than a dog in the middle of a summer afternoon with no shade or water. You get the point.

Sometime during the second hour, I realized I left Rocky Mountain National Park and entered Roosevelt National Forest (entering and exiting the park occurs several times). By this time, I was dripping with sweat but smiling from ear to ear as I stopped at a small overlook that offered a tease of the breathtaking views I’d see at the summit.

As I approached the last half mile, the Twin Sisters Peaks seemed to have emerged out of nowhere. Longs Peak, Mt. Meeker, Powell Peak, Taylor Peak, Lily Mountain, and Estes Cone came to life as I looked west.

With over 400 feet of elevation remaining, I was above tree line and hiking through what felt like 14er terrain. The winds picked up, but that wasn’t about to stop me. It was a welcome change from the heat.

I stopped at the saddle between the two sisters and ate lunch, preparing for the final ascent. I stopped at the stone hut radio Communications Tower for a photo before reaching the highest peak of 11,428 feet above sea level.

Rangers weren’t kidding when they said the hike was strenuous, but I’d have to say that the 2,475 feet of elevation was well worth the gain. I love knowing I’ve accomplished something challenging.

I’ll also admit that I love that no one can get a hold of me; no phone, no computer, no conversations. There is, of course, the exception of the conversations happening between my soul and nature. One of the greatest feelings is the sensation my feet feel as I swap my boots for a pair of sandals at the end of the journey.

The way my senses heighten as I look at a forest, an alpine lake, or a mountain range is unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. Every hike is like coming home to a place I’ve never been.

To learn more about Twin Sisters hike, visit https://www.rockymountainhikingtrails.com/ twin-sisters-peak.htm.