Route Map showing Day 31 of the TransAmerica Bicycle Trail, Heeney Colorado to Breckenridge Colorado

As roll along passes built in the mountains, I think about the two primary ingredients required to move mountains. It's not a huge mystery. The ingredients are simple. And everyone has the capacity to do it.

Please share in the comments what mountains you're in the process of moving!

Today's journey was gorgeous. It's fall in the Rockies and the Aspens are showing off.

I loved the peaceful path today. Most of the trip was on a paved bicycle trail. Aside from one 15% grade (I had to dismount) and some sustained 10% grades, the path was a comfortable ride. The path somehow camouflaged the 2,694 feet (821 m) of climbing.  The light wind and rain didn't bother me much on this calm section of the trail.

Photo, Day 31 of the TransAmerica Bicycle Trail, Mandy with her bicycle on a bicycle path with golden aspens along the path and mountains in the background

About 20 miles of the route today was on a bicycle path through Silverthorne, Frisco, and Breckenridge. It was refreshingly peaceful and the fall colors were beautiful.

Making memories
  • The trek through Silverthorne, Frisco, and Breckenridge has me wondering why I don't live here!
  • I stayed at the Fireside Inn hostel. They anticipated every need from a hot tub to a shared kitchen space to receiving packages. They even let me use their garage and tools for bicycle repairs. This will be my go-to spot next time I come to Breckenridge.
  • There were so many wonderful, local choices for dining that I had a difficult time deciding where to go. I was struck by the thriving downtown and the absence of chain shops and restaurants. I enjoyed window shopping at the various arts, crafts, and recreation stores as well.
  • My parts arrived! I spend the evening replacing my pedal assist system. Thanks to my kind hosts at the Fireside Inn for loaning me their garage as a workspace and even providing access to tools. Everything seems to be working and I look forward to testing it out on the steep climb up to Hoosier Pass in the morning.
  • As it rained while I was cycling through Frisco, I couldn't get the Harry Chapin song "Taxi" out of my head. I know, it's 'Frisco, not Frisco, but my brain couldn't be convinced.

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Mandy Birch is a global executive engineer and military veteran who builds teams, leaders, & multinational organizations that unlock the potential of disruptive ideas. She enjoys accelerating emerging technologies & strategic partnerships to drive multi-generational thriving for people & communities around the world.

Mandy's interests include: #innovation #leadership #technology #partnerships #quantumcomputing #career #growth #womenintech #veterans #entrepreneurship #creativity #future #foreignpolicy #democracy #geopolitics



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