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Heather Balogh Rochfort

Why I run

I run because it’s hard. I’m not good at it and I’m certainly not a natural, but I think that’s what keeps pulling me back. I like to challenge myself, and running brings me those “highs” and “lows” that I can’t experience elsewhere. And, the scenery is pretty dang awesome too!

My favorite trail to run

I’ve gotten to run in a lot of cool places all over the world, but my favorite are the local trails at home in Colorado’s Roaring Fork Valley near Aspen. My favorite last year was the Sugar Bowls Loop on Buttermilk mountain, a 10-mile loop with a few thousand feet of vert that climbs up to the top of the ski resort before traversing a ridgeline alongside epic views of Pyramid Peak before descending through open meadows of wildflowers (in the summer) or vibrant yellow aspen trees (in the fall). You can’t help but hoot ‘n holler when you’re running there!

What I hope to convey with my writing

I want folks to realize that trail running and ultrarunning aren’t just for the “hardcore” athletes of the world. You can do it even if you’re a mom who works full-time and wrangles a kid and fits runs in between her preschool pickup and goldfish snacks. So often, we hear from the icons of the world, but there is a lot more to running than just the names that fill the headlines. I want my writing to speak to the everyday people and weekend warriors who are getting it done amidst all of life’s responsibilities.

More about Heather

I’m a Colorado-based author and adventure journalist who wakes up thankful every day that I was able to convert my hobbies into a career. I’ve written five books (Backpacking 101, Sleeping Bags and S’mores, Women Who Hike, Moms Who Hike, and Hiking with Kids: Northern California) and while I’m highly unsure as to whether I’ll tackle another, I still enjoy telling shorter stories for publications like The Washington Post, Runner’s World, Outside, REI, and The Red Bulletin. I’m also the co-founder of WildKind, a Colorado-based community for outdoor families. But most importantly, I really love playing outside with my husband and daughter, the two wonderful souls who make every day better than the last.

Connect with Heather on WildKind, Instagram, or Twitter.

 

Recent posts by Heather Balogh Rochfort

Running a 100K: Prepping for the Big Dance

You’ve done the hard work. Now it’s time to have fun.

How Stefanie Flippin Went From Middle-of-the-Pack to Elite

This professional runner shares the nutritional and training tweaks that helped launch her breakthrough career.

The Ultimate Guide to Running 100K

If you’re going to run in the dark, let’s make it as fun as possible.

Not to be ignored

With four 100-mile wins and another three podium finishes since early 2021, Arlen Glick may be the most successful-yet-underrated runner out there.

A running story. A love story.

Mayra Lopez-Garcia and Jerry Garcia cover the tough miles of life together.

Hardrock heartstrings

UltraSignup’s founding editor shares the powerful journey that took her from Hardrock to motherhood – and back again.

2022 Western States 100: stories beyond the tape

Learn the backstories behind a few everyday heroes heading to the nation’s oldest 100-mile footrace.

How to not DNF a 100-miler

You’ve already spent your money and time on training, so let’s make it to the finish line, eh?

A final hoorah at Western States

The heart warming story of Doug White, and his family, who have been tending to the Dusty Corners aid station for 21 years.

Managing Taper Madness

The hardest part of training may just be getting through the last crazy-making weeks before race day.

Finding her why: Verna Volker’s first 50-miler

“Most Navajos run all their life,” laughs Verna Volker. “But I was not that Navajo.”

Ultimate guide to 50 miler logistics

Running 50 miles is tough. Managing the logistics can feel even harder.