Into the Empty Wild: 47 Miles Through Wyoming’s Heartland

What a day!

I woke up snug in the RV after a good night’s sleep—so different from the tent or motel nights I’ve had. When my alarm rang at 5am, it was still cold inside, so I flicked on the heater and stayed tucked in for a few minutes. No buggy today, which made packing a different kind of task. I had to be really intentional—jacket, snacks, gear—because my crew wouldn't meet me until about 10 miles in.

My sister was already up and sent me off into the rising light with her warm and spirited encouragement. The road ahead stretched endlessly, but my legs fell into a natural rhythm quickly. Without the buggy, I was able to stand a little taller, swing my arms more freely, and tune in to a better running form. The birds were chirping, the morning sun was rising gently, and the air was still cool. It was one of those quiet, peaceful starts that makes the early wake-up feel absolutely worth it.

Knowing my crew was behind me made a huge difference mentally. If anything happened, we’d work it out together. Just before mile 11, I was already greeted with food and hydration—what a treat! From there, they stayed fairly close, checking in, refueling me, encouraging me. It felt so good to be looked after like that.

The sun climbed higher and stronger. There wasn’t much wind, but it was just enough to disguise how powerful the sun actually was. Around mile 26, I noticed clouds forming ahead—thick, dark, and heavy in places. Rain was falling in the distance, and by mile 31, I felt a few drops. On went the rain jacket—not for rain, but for wind. Even with all the drama in the sky, it never actually rained on me.

At mile 45, we thought about wrapping up for the day. But the road tilted up into a long hill, and the thought of starting there tomorrow made me push a little further. So I climbed. And on the other side, my crew was waiting at a spot where they could park safely. 47 miles for today.

Thanks, team.

I mostly run with a smile these days, but today I noticed it even more. My body felt good, my mind was clear, and the landscape—wide, empty, golden Wyoming—held me in that grounded space between effort and ease.

Afterward, we rolled back to Rock River, same RV spot as yesterday. I chugged water, my protein drink, and a well-earned coffee. Now, it’s time for dinner and rest—because tomorrow’s calling, and it’s going to be another big one.

Thanks for following along. See you out there again tomorrow.