My name is Vanessa.
I’m a trail runner, mountain lover, and author.
I studied journalism and worked for magazines and other media companies as an Assistant Editor, and then an Online Editor. But it was office work, and all I saw in my future was advancement, more money, and more office work. I lived for the weekends and my dog was bored.
It wasn’t what I wanted.
In 2012, I quit my job, bought a small Rialta RV with my boyfriend, gave away all my possessions, and hit the trails to run and write books full-time. My first book, The Summit Seeker, hit Amazon’s list of Best Sellers and Hot New Releases in the Sports & Outdoors category. You can check it out HERE.
We aim to live day-to-day, bartering or trading for things that we need, sometimes doing freelance or contract work, and following our whims wherever they take us.
Our goal is to be as self-sufficient as possible, living off solar panels and parking at remote trailheads. Free wi-fi connections allow us to upload our stories, adventures, and books. Everyday is an adventure.
I have written for UltraRunning Magazine, Trail Running Magazine, and Active.com, among other publications. You can view some of my previously published articles and interviews here.
Running for me was something that was born in the midst of my worst hardships and continues to carry me through life. I started running trail ultras in 2011 and never looked back.
Ultrarunning has taught me that there is nothing broken that cannot be made strong. It has healed all my wounds and forced me to reclaim my body, mind, and spirit.
I started this blog in 2007 when I was still trying to finish 5Ks. I am now a four-time 100-mile finisher, training to run longer and faster on the trails. The blog has changed over the years, as have I. The focus now is on trail and mountain running, living simply, traveling, and racing ultras.
I have run several ultra distance races as well as a Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim crossing of the Grand Canyon. In 2012, I covered 2053 miles and snagged five 100-mile finisher buckles. In 2013 we drove across the continent, exploring trails from California to Alaska, across Canada, and down the East coast. Come share in my journey and run some miles with me.
Some Popular Posts to Get You Started
Are You There, Running? It’s Me, Vanessa
Social Media–Bane or Boon to Trail Running?
10 Overlooked Rights Worth Fighting For
Sequoia National Park: Finding Resilience in the Forest
4 Powerful Lessons From a Nomadic Life
READER FEEDBACK
“Reading your post is almost as good as standing on a mountaintop after a several-mile run to the top. It’s in those moments that I feel my spirit’s immenseness and I explode with a smile that emanates from everywhere and nowhere.” – Erskien Lenier
“It’s refreshing when someone thinks with their heart, processes with their head, and answers with their very soul. Stain the Earth with the passing of you.” – John Y.
“Vanessa, thank you for simply being you. I love reading your stuff. Your courage to journey and share is ultra incredible. Your talent with words, your passion for bending them just the right way and splashing in, is always right on time. It’s always an exciting read. You are living the life so many of us runners want to. I’m grateful I can live, at times, vicariously through you. Keep dreaming and living it.” – Teyana Viscarra
“I just love your way with words. You stir the emotional pot and make me think. Well done!” – Angie Bee Hotz
“Vanessa you are amazing and I wish I were a great writer like you. I am really enjoying your book. I must say I feel like I have known you forever and I feel like you were my little sister in a past life. Hugs to you, Shacky and Ginger and Momma kitty.” – Catra Corbett
“Vanessa, you have more wealth than Bill Gates, Warren Buffet and Larry Ellison combined because you are contented and you have your health. I am inspired to follow by your example.” – Naeem Ravat
“It’s so awesome to see all that you’ve done with this year. It feels like you guys just started this adventure and a whole year has already passed. Time flies! That’s why we need to start living now. I’m continually inspired by you.” – Kate Buntenbach
“Your writing is so clear and the ideas so important. With much gratitude for a great read.” – Leah
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Facebook: www.facebook.com/vanessaruns
Twitter: www.twitter.com/vanessaruns
My Book: The Summit Seeker
Amazon Author Page: Vanessa Runs
Goodreads Author Page: Vanessa Runs
Videos: https://vimeo.com/vanessaruns
Daily paper: Ultra Running’s Top Stories
Check out THE SUMMIT SEEKER here
“May your trails be crooked, winding, lonesome, dangerous, leading to the most amazing view. May your mountains rise into and above the clouds.” – Edward Abbey
