My Latest Mountain Adventure

I just returned from the Sisu Ski retreat in Colorado, and my heart is full of that special kind of joy that comes from doing something outside of your comfort zone and spending a weekend in community with other remarkable women. Despite Mother Nature throwing many challenges my way (including a 4-hour delay in Livingston and driving through complete whiteout conditions on my way home) — it was worth it.

The Latigo Ranch where we stayed, sits at 9,000 feet with views of the Continental Divide and Medicine Bow Valley so the views were definitely one of my favorite parts about this location. They keep 80km of freshly groomed skate-ski trails, the cabins are cozy and totally winterized, and they have yaks. Yes, yaks! It was my first time being around these wonderful creatures and they are essentially mountain puppies. I couldn't resist bringing home some yak yar, and am planning to knit the "Sophie Scarf" from Petit Knit with it as a memento.

If you're wondering whether to take that solo retreat you've been dreaming about – do it. As someone who just reformed her skate-ski technique (thanks to a certain hot Norwegian's YouTube tutorials), I can tell you that investing in yourself and your adventures is always worth it.

What truly made this retreat special was the group of women who gathered there. From physicians to park rangers (including one who helped create our newest national monument, The Carlisle Federal Indian Boarding School National Monument!), it was a mix of friends taking their first ski adventure together and solo travelers (like me) who were there to improve their skate skiing skills. Each woman brought a unique story and energy to our time together. My roommate, whom I fondly dubbed "Boulder's version of Harriet Chase," was one of my favorites. She kept us all laughing with her spontaneous cartwheels mid-conversation.

Speaking of gathering with remarkable women... I wanted to remind you of our new monthly Coffee Chats as part of the Dare Guides membership! These 30-minute virtual gatherings are a chance to connect, share travel insights, and inspire each other's adventures. Our first chat will focus on Montana ranch experiences, and I'll be joining you right from my kitchen (coffee in hand, of course!). It's the perfect opportunity to ask questions, share your own stories, and connect with fellow women curious to create more adventures in their lives.

*Coffee Chats are an exclusive Dare Guide membership benefit. Registration through the membership portal is required so we can best manage your experience.

For those who haven't heard, our new Dare Guides membership includes monthly expertly crafted travel itineraries designed specifically for women travelers. Each guide comes complete with Google Maps lists, packing guides, book recommendations, and carefully curated playlists to soundtrack your journey.