FKT: Jack Errea - Emerald Mountain (CO) - 2026-07-04

My run started from the YMCA of the Rockies camp northeast of Emerald Mountain in the afternoon of Jul 4th, 2026. I proceeded to the FKT route, which officially started once I reached the East Portal trail. The trail was sandy and very runnable until the summit trail turnoff, after which it became extremely steep and rocky, and some hiking became inevitable. Upon reaching the summit, I was greeted by a mountain man who told me of his mountain adventures and falling in love with Longs Peak, which was visible to the south. After enjoying the view and taking a few pictures, I reversed the route, scrambled back down the summit trail, and headed back along the East Portal trail. I saw no wildlife and carried nothing besides my phone and watch.