The GR 54 is an iconic trail in the french Alps that forms a loop around the Écrins massif—a renowned hub for mountaineering—featuring a succession of 12 mountain passes and a high concentration of physical and technical challenges, particularly in its second half. It is quite rare to be able to complete the route in October without the need for crampons or an ice axe, but the weather conditions this year made it possible. I had initially planned to go "unsupported," carrying a pack that felt rather heavy, but after 24 hours of racing I ended up stopping at the only grocery store open along the route at this time of year. The nights are already long during this season, and I had to contend with numerous and impressive hallucinations. I am very glad to have reached the end of this grueling trail; last year, it completely crushed me.