Kyle Richardson

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Fall, Fountain, Forever

Fall is the best time of the year to be in the Flatirons. All of the rocks are open for business (the birds have finished nesting), and the cooler temps of autumn are delightful after a hot summer on the slabs.

Everything about scrambling in the Flatirons touches a very primal feeling, there is something unique and special about moving fluidly over Fountain. It is just you and the environment, becoming one—blurring the lines between running and climbing.

This activity is the epitome of the word niche. The Flatirons are the perfect stage for the confluence of running and climbing. I'm not suggesting anyone should do anything that they aren't 100% comfortable with; climbing or scrambling without a rope has severe consequences. I've spent thousands of hours in the Flatirons, gaining the competency to feel solid on technical terrain.

I find myself at home in the mountains when I'm out pushing myself. My curiosity drives me to new places and that allows me to push up against the edge of what is possible. My motivation doesn’t stem from chasing records, it comes from connecting with the landscape.

It is about finding what ignites your soul—and chasing that feeling Forever.

Photo: Joe Grant