In 2021, photographer John Abramson ventured across all 71 miles of the Canal on behalf of the Conservancy to capture the stories and faces of those who love the old Canal. We are pleased to share some of these stories with you.

From Childhood Memories to Rediscovering Peace: The High Line Canal’s Gift

Pictured: Cathy Berra (left) and Janet Sayre (right) on horseback near the Cottonwood Riding Club in Littleton.

Cathy’s eyes sparkled with nostalgia as she recalled her carefree days as a young girl. Alongside her brothers, she would spend countless hours immersed in the enchanting woods, their imaginations running wild. Tree forts were built, tadpoles were caught and the beauty of nature was their playground. It was in those moments of pure abandon that they felt truly alive.

Fast forward to a different chapter of Cathy’s life, one marked by the hustle and bustle of Washington, D.C. For over 17 years, she navigated the stress and demands of the city. However, life took an unexpected turn, and Cathy returned to her roots in Colorado to assist her aging parents.

Amidst the challenges that accompanied her return, Cathy discovered a silver lining, the High Line Canal. This scenic trail, winding its way through the heart of Colorado, became her sanctuary. Just as she had experienced as a child, the Canal offered a respite from the pressures of everyday life.

The joy of riding her horse on the High Line Canal, venturing towards Chatfield Reservoir, became a transformative experience for Cathy. The trail became more than a mere pathway; it became a conduit for introspection and self-reflection. With every ride along the Canal, Cathy found solace and quiet time to reassess her life’s direction. The stress that once consumed her on the East Coast was replaced by a sense of calm and contentment. It was as if life had come full circle, and the Canal had bestowed upon her a profound blessing.

Cathy considered herself fortunate to have such remarkable access to the Canal, a treasure that connected her to her childhood memories and brought tranquility to her adult life. With each ride, she relished the moments of freedom and the gentle reminders that life’s true riches could be found in the simplicity of nature.