From Ultra Marathons to Book Signings: A Van That Does It Al
When you’re an ultrarunner, coach, and author like Hillary Allen, you’re no stranger to balancing movement, recovery, and storytelling. Last summer, Hillary took off in a DM Van for what she calls her unconVANtional book tour—a cross-country journey mixing races, bookstore signings, and trail-side recovery, all from the comfort of a thoughtfully built camper van.
Her van wasn’t just transportation—it was a mobile basecamp, office, kitchen, and recovery zone. From Colorado to Oregon to Washington, Hillary connected with fans, fellow runners, and readers of her memoir Out and Back: A Runner’s Story of Survival and Recovery Against All Odds.
A Story of Resilience: Hillary’s Road to “Out and Back”
In 2017, Hillary’s career was nearly cut short after a 150-foot fall during a race in Norway. Her comeback was not just physical—it became emotional, mental, and deeply transformative. That journey is captured in her book Out and Back, which chronicles her recovery and mindset shift, encouraging others to find meaning in their setbacks.
The van tour gave Hillary a chance to share that story in mountain towns across the West while continuing to train, coach, and live her values on the road.
A Van Built for Athletes
As a professional trail runner, Hillary’s days are full—training runs, coaching calls, book events, and recovery routines. Her DM Van made it all possible. Here’s how she made the most of van life:
- Flexible mobility for trail access and bookstore events
- Built-in kitchen to keep up with an athlete’s appetite
- Work-ready interior for coaching calls and writing sessions
- Comfortable recovery space post-race or post-training
- No-compromise lifestyle that supports both work and wellness
“I’m someone who doesn’t want to choose between adventure and career,” Hillary shares. “The van lets me do both.”
A Book Tour, Reimagined
Phase one of Hillary’s unconVANtional tour took her through CO, UT, ID, OR, and WA, combining events at bookstores with trail running races and training. Later, phase two would take her along the California coast. Her journey was about more than promoting a book—it was about connecting with communities, sharing trails, and offering inspiration.
Follow Hillary’s Journey
Want to follow along with Hillary’s story?
- Website & Book Info: hillaryallen.com
- Buy the Book: Amazon – Out and Back
- Coaching: Sharman Ultra Coaching
- Instagram: @hillygoat_climbs
- YouTube: Van Life with Ultra Runner Hillary Allen
Learn More About DM Vans
Hillary’s journey was powered by a Lifestyle Vehicle® from DM Vans—built to meet the needs of modern adventurers and full-time travelers. Whether you’re chasing summits, writing stories, or doing both, we’ve got a van for that.