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Mountains aren't just for conquering—they're for conversations and connections. In this deeply personal episode, trail running legend Rickey Gates opens up about his journey from competitive racer to what he calls a "conceptual runner," someone who approaches running as a form of artistic expression rather than pure athletic pursuit.

Rickey takes us back to his early days in Aspen, Colorado, where high school cross country ignited his passion for trail running. We follow his path from winning local races to representing the US Mountain Running Team to becoming a cornerstone athlete on the Salomon team during the explosive growth years of trail running. His collaborations with filmmaker Dean Leslie produced some of the most influential running films of the last decade, inspiring countless newcomers to the sport.

The conversation takes a fascinating turn as Rickey shares rare insights about racing against Kilian Jornet at Mount Marathon—his all-time favorite race—describing what it's truly like to compete against someone widely considered the greatest mountain runner ever. "There's a drive in him that can't really be learned or faked," Rickey explains, offering a glimpse into Jornet's extraordinary competitive spirit while also emphasizing his genuine kindness.

Perhaps most compelling is Rickey's candid discussion about stepping away from competition after 15 years to pursue more creative running projects. From running across America to his "Every Single Street" projects and his current work on "50 Classic Trails of America," Rickey has redefined success on his own terms. Now at 43, balancing fatherhood with guiding running trips and creative work, he reflects on finding fulfillment through exploration rather than race results.

Whether you're chasing podiums or simply seeking connection through movement, Rickey's thoughtful perspective reminds us that sometimes the most meaningful paths emerge when we question conventional definitions of success and follow our authentic curiosities instead.

Follow Rickey on IG - @rickeygates

Check out Rickey's Website - @rickeygates

Check out Rickey's 50 Classic Trails Project - @50ClassicTrails

Sign up for Rickey's Santa Fe Fastpack ! This May 26th - 30th 2025

@santafefastpack

Sign up for Rickey's Bus Run Bus San Fran to Seattle ! This June 28th - July 5th, 2025 @busrunbus

Follow James on IG - @jameslauriello

Follow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_pod

This episode is brought to you by Ultimate Direction! The new Race 6L & Ultra 12L vests have just dropped in beautiful new colorways. These dynamic new vests will be in my gear lineup for my upcoming mountain running season. Use code steepstuffpod for 25% off your purchase on ultimatedirection.com !