Mount Yale was the first 14er I had hiked since my accident in the mountains the year before in fall of 2016. Mostly due to the 8+ months of PT and limitations from three surgeries during the span between that time and this day.

I was thankful to be back above 14,000 feet after a long time away. It felt good to stretch the legs and get back outside on high peaks again.

I remember enjoying the rocky ridge over to the summit and found that a nice surprise for the standard route. It was a mellow day on the standard Southwest slopes to ease back into big days in the alpine and get my footing back. 

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Buena Vista is quite possibly my favorite mountain town in the Sawatch range. The people, the culture and the vibe are all excellent. I always make a point to stop in BV, usually Eddyline, my favorite brewery in Colorado. Highly recommend stopping or staying in Buena Vista.

Local spots: Simple Eatery & Spoon It Up, House Rock Kitchen, Eddyline Brewing.