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Trail-running dynamo Erin Ton takes us through the highs and lows of her mountainous pursuits on the Steep Stuff Podcast, from her transformative post-college years to her current record-chasing ambitions. If her tales of scaling peaks in cocktail dresses and high heels don’t grab your attention, her principled stand to preserve the integrity of outdoor sportsmanship will. Erin's journey is anything but ordinary, and her story of self-supported endurance running, complete with living out of a Jeep Wrangler and strategically excluding Culebra Peak from her records, is both captivating and inspiring.

Facing the unpredictable wrath of nature, Erin narrates a particularly chilling encounter with a lightning storm during the Crestone Traverse and the eerie discovery of a reminder from a previous rescue attempt. While unpacking the controversies and complexities of private land ownership in the outdoor community, Erin exemplifies the essence of sticking to one’s values amidst backlash. As she gears up for the Nolans 14 line and the Colorado Trail, we dissect the unique demands each challenge presents and share the strategy behind her ambitious goal to set new benchmarks in a single summer.

Beyond the adrenaline-fueled escapades, our conversation with Erin ventures into the realm of wildlife conservation and the political delicacies surrounding the reintroduction of predators like wolves in Colorado. Erin's innovative high-heel 14ers challenge not only breaks norms but also fosters intriguing collaborations, inviting us to rethink our approach to adventure. Wrap up this episode feeling invigorated by Erin’s indomitable spirit and perhaps, just perhaps, consider dusting off those trail shoes—or high heels—for your own mountain adventure.

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