Running to the Top of Pikes Peak: My Story + The Best Anti-Chafe Cream for Runners
Aug 20, 2025
When I first started running, the idea of going more than a few miles felt impossible. My legs felt heavy, my lungs burned, and I couldn’t imagine pushing past that point. Fast forward to today: I recently ran from my home in north Colorado Springs all the way to the top of Pikes Peak—over 14,000 feet above sea level.
This wasn’t just a physical challenge. It was also about finding the right pace, keeping my heart rate under control, and learning how to enjoy the process instead of just surviving it.
And let’s be honest—long runs come with their own challenges: chafing, blisters, finding spots to get water, go to the bathroom, and replenish fuel is important to consider. That’s why prepping is key for ultras on your own are vital to a good run!
Running From Colorado Springs to Pikes Peak
The route from the city to the summit is unforgettable. It starts on familiar sidewalks before leading into winding trails, steep climbs, and finally the exposed alpine sections above treeline. The views are incredible, but the miles are tough—especially when your skin is breaking down from friction.
On big efforts like this, I always carry my essentials:
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Anti-Chafe Cream – to stop friction before it starts.
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Blister Blocker – for feet that take a pounding on steep trails.
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Hydration - I love my Osprey Water Bladder.
- Trekking Poles - On steep climbs like this, the poles come in handy!
Without these, I wouldn’t enjoy these runs nearly as much.
How to Prevent Chafing on Long Runs
If you’ve ever Googled “how to stop chafing while running” or “blister prevention for hiking,” you know how distracting and painful it can be. Here’s what works for me:
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Apply anti-chafe cream before you start. Areas like thighs, underarms, and feet need a barrier to stop friction.
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Wear moisture-wicking clothing. Cotton traps sweat and makes chafing worse.
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Keep your pace steady. Overexertion leads to more sweat, which increases irritation.
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Reapply as needed. On ultra-distance runs, I carry a small stick of cream to touch up mid-run and it works wonders.
That’s why 55 Miles Anti-Chafe Cream and Blister Blocker—natural, lightweight, and effective even after hours of running.
More Than Just Running
For me, runs like Pikes Peak aren’t just about fitness. They’re about proving what’s possible. I think back to the version of me who struggled with just a couple miles, and I’m reminded that progress is built one step at a time.
Whether you’re training for your first 5K or running ultra distances, don’t let your own thoughts hold you back from starting. Learning to run one mile at a time and staying consistent will build the strength to run whatever distance you desire! I hope you enjoy this video and the beauty of running to the top of Pikes Peak with me!
Shop the 55 Miles Essentials
If you’re ready to take your training to the next level, here are the products I trust every single run:
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Anti-Chafe Cream – prevents friction and irritation on long runs.
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Blister Blocker – protects your feet from hot spots and blisters.
Because when you’re chasing big goals, the last thing you should worry about is chafing or blisters.
