Running across the Colorado Rockies is no small feat. Just ask Hunter Leiniger, who recently became the fastest person to traverse the entire state along the Continental Divide. Over 760 miles and more than 150,000 feet of elevation gain, Hunter faced extreme conditions, high altitudes, and challenges that would push most athletes to their limits.
Hunter’s route followed the Continental Divide, keeping him above 10,000 feet in elevation nearly the entire way. He climbed numerous fourteeners and battled snow, rain, hail, and unforgiving terrain. The high-altitude environment made each step physically demanding, and every day brought unpredictable obstacles that required adaptability and resilience.
“I dealt with so many things going wrong, but also so many things going right,” Hunter explained. “The beauty of these epic adventures is that you can plan as much as you want, but you never really know what’s going to happen out there.”
Hunter began the expedition completely unsupported - no crew, no assistance, just a 30-pound backpack with all his gear and food. He slept under a tarp every night and carried everything he needed for survival and navigation. However, about five days in, his phone broke, cutting off his ability to call for help or check maps.
At that point, Hunter’s dad stepped in with a Campers Inn RV, providing a mobile base for recovery, rest, and meals. Meeting the RV every other night gave Hunter a safe space to recharge and maintain his pace. Sleeping on a comfortable mattress, cooking meals, and warming up after long days of running made a huge difference.
From day one, Hunter battled a persistent illness that left him coughing and struggling to eat. Around day seven, he sought medical attention at an urgent care facility and received a diagnosis of a respiratory issue. Despite the setback, he didn’t let it stop him. After a short recovery day, he returned to the trail, running the equivalent of two marathons per day while climbing at least 20,000 feet daily.
Hunter credits much of his success to the flexibility and convenience of living in an RV. He’s spent the entire year living, training, and traveling out of his Campers Inn RV, giving him the freedom to explore Colorado and train for this epic expedition without the constraints of renting or owning a home. The RV served as both transportation and a fully equipped base camp, making recovery and preparation possible each day.
After 18 grueling days, Hunter crossed from New Mexico to Wyoming, officially setting the new world record for the fastest traverse of the Colorado Rockies. While speed was a focus, Hunter emphasizes that the experience was about more than just the record; it was about enjoying the trail, embracing the challenges, and pushing himself in one of the most beautiful and demanding environments in the United States.
“Even though I was sick the whole time,” Hunter mused, “Every single day I was reminded why I do this.”
Hunter’s journey is a reminder that preparation, resilience, and the right tools can make even the most daunting challenges achievable. His story also highlights the value of an RV as more than a vehicle. It’s a home, a mobile base, and a crucial part of life on the trail. For anyone dreaming of combining adventure, training, and exploration, Hunter’s journey shows that the right setup can make all the difference.