The next alarm I snoozed and snoozed. Until it began to get light.
I could see that my tent was frozen.
I was in no hurry to get up . As it wasnt far to Copper Mountain
At 6.30 I pulled the stopper and opened up.my tent.
My colleague was oacked except for his tentvas he was drying to dry it more in the sun.
Morning .
Okay Snail get into gear .I Unclipped my fly and gently rolled it off my tent.
I then packed up.
to head out
I walked passed my freinds from last night them headed down the trail it was a gorgeous day and all ready warm.
Luckily the trail was still down as I still didn’t have heaps of energy.
The closer I got to Copper mountain the busier the trail became . About a dozen southbound CT hikers and similar number of other hikers just hiking.
I pushed on until I came to my first view of this huge complex and first set of ski lifts.
Getting closer.. the next set of ski lifts appeared to be running. Possibly testing ?
I began to spiral down lower and lower until I was almost there.
Wow in front of me was a roller coaster. Wow that’s kinda cool.
At last I was in the complex. I walked around looking for a cafe. Or similar,I passed a large boating lake with grandpa and his grandaughter on one of those round boats having fun. Above them were a dozen children waiting for their turn on a zip line.
I noticed a small convenience shop so brought a bottle of lemonade that I had been craving
I sat outside by the lake watching the kids zoom down the wire.
I then headed off to find a bathroom . On the way back I bumped into Shea. Who I had met earlier thst morning as I packed up.
He was having a coffee and eating doughnuts.. looks scrumpy I said.
Good luck today I said.
Yes Shea said.i need to leave before all the bars open
We both laughed.
I headed out to find the bus.
The busses in this area are all free.i found the stop, but had just missed it. While I waited I got out my fly to dry in the sun.
The bus soon arrived. This bus will take me to Frisco then I fet another to Silverthorne.
I must admit wow what a great town Frisco is. Very long road packed with shops and unlike UK free parking .
The bus finally stooped and I got off only for the next bus to arrive
It wasn’t long untill I was here.
Okay hotel .
It was easy to find and right next to a huge store perfect.
Okay I need to post 2 boxes of food up trail 5 days and six days
But I needed to check with one site and they only respond to email. So I emailed and am waiting.
Once settled in I went to the shop as they have a pharmacy.
I tried to see if I could get some more medicine.(giardia)
I took my uk prescription with me.
The assistant was very helpful, but the american system wasn’t.
I needed to see a Dr to get a prescription and that would cost a lot of $$$$. For a $7 packet of pills. I thanked her.
Okay shopping I brought for one box, as havnt heard back yet.
Also lunch,dinner. Beer and icecream . Sorted.
Once back I grabbed coffee.and ice . And back to relax.
Okay lunch first then tv and relax.
Oh and I have ordered my gloves. Whoop whoop and relax.
After several late night excursions to the loo I managed to get a good night’s sleep .
And was up and ready by 6.30.
It was a cool morning but as I was in the vally my fly was wet.
I headed out and at once began to climb and climb and climb infact I spent all morning climbing until I needed a break ..
I sat on rock in the sun watching the mist or steam rise from the damp grass now being baked by the sun .
A hiker passed me and quickly was out of sight. I was about to resume but then needed to quickly run into the forest
I have decided that I have contracted giardia from dirty water .I have tablets and should have started taking them sooner but was hoping that the other medicine would fix it.
I was was just about to hoist my pack when another hiker came through his name was silver and he was 72 wow. He has hiked this trail 3 times and is now on his fourth . He told me loads of interesting and useful stuff .
He headed off and I followed still climbing . We will very climbing all day. Such fun . Silver made the climbing look so easy .me puff puff puff stop.
At the next water stop I asked him how he made it look so simple. He gave me a few tip on walking and on breathing. All worth trying.
He headed off and I followed
Eventually getting to the top of the first summit over 12000 ft.
Silver took my photo and I his as it was such a great view.
A bit more climbing then it’s down snail.
Thank goodness I said . We’ll actually i swore lol.
So I headed out amazed at the Vistas all around me.
At last I was at the top. And once again the views just breathtaking.
Okay I think its down now snail.
Silver headed off following the meandering line of the trail shortly followed by myself.
But the trail appeared to be heading in the opposite direction .
Oh F*uck I havnt finished climbing as another large mountain appeared before me .
By now Silver was a fair way ahead . I was struggling a bit. I’m guessing with bacterial infection that I was suffering from I was suffering from lack of energy.
Several Ct hikers came through so I asked them about snow.
All is good they said.
In the distance was a large rock. Perfect for a lunch stop.
I dropped my pack and silver joined me
I then got out my fly to dry in the sun.
Great idea Snailtrainer said Silver and did the same.
It was lovely to sit and relax in the sun for a few minutes.
Okay time to walk.i set off crossing several snow bungs before dropping down over the saddle.
From now it should be all downhill and only 6 miles to Copper mountain.
Easy peasy….lol
As I was beginning to decend gourmet appeared passed me and zoomed off into the distance.
As I began to zig-zag down I came to an amazing lodge perched in the mountain . You can rent this place and wow it looks amazing probably many shillings ££££$$$$$$
I pushed on before noticing another hiker gaining on me from behind. I paused to let him buy only to find that it was Yader.
Great to see you…catch you up trail as he was awning to climb the big mountain. .
I was going to take the alternate.
The trail crossed over the mountain giving great views down the vally before dropping down into the forest. The trail was switchbacked making the going easy.
But I was still struggling with no energy even though I was heading down. I needed to stop.
I sat down and took off my pack and lay down on the ground .
My breathing was mad so I lay there until I sounded normal lol.
God I feel rubbish but then I had been climbing since 6.30 and the Altitude kills me normally.
Okay snail a handful of miles to go and it was only 2 pm
I got up sung on my pack and returned to the spiraling downward trail.
But I really wasn’t feeling it. Could camp there. But I wasn’t carrying any water. Okay next water and I load up and then the next flat spot will be mine.
Typically it was a while before water. Okay now somewhere to camp….The trail now followed the river and once again the beavers had been busy.
Oh there perfect,in the shadow of an old log cabin the perfect spot .
I dropped my pack . Then sat on a rock for a few minutes .
Just in front in some trees I noticed several.other hikers setting up camp.
As I sat on my rock the clouds began to roll in.
Better throw my tent up quickly .
Okay done now I can relax.
I had just finished setting up when a CT hiker appeared. Would you mind if I set up?
Not at all go for it.
As he set up I fired up.my stove and made a cuppa.woukd you mind if I cooked here?
No problem. It was actually nice to have some company and conversation .
As we were cooking one ofvthe ladies from the trees came over and said they were having happy hr and would you likevto join us for tequila and lime.
So when we were done we joined them. It was two ladies and 1 husband.
I enjoyed our drinks but the weather wasn’t being kind and I was getting cold so I thanked them and left.
Once back in my tent I had a quick tidy then got into my bag as it was getting cold.
Actually just in time as the heavens opened and whosh down came the rain.
I dozed until 8 then looked at my phone and noticed I had a message from one of my sons,Sebastian
Are you able to facetime ,he asked
So I did . It was good to see him his girlfriend Charlotte and of course my dog Taylor lol
We chatted for a while until I needed to go as I needed to check out and wanted to grab a shower too.
The shower was soo good. Okay snail all this stuff on the floor has to go back into your pack.
I started then went to grab some coffee. I was shown how to make coffee yesterday.
Grind the beans then add to machine and hey presto
The owner caught be looking bewildered at it yesterday and took me by the hand
..how old am I lol.
I sat down with my coffee and scoffed my last two remaining fruit jellies. The family began to emerge and then the big breakfast cook off began.
It was so nice to see the 5 kids all mesmerised as bacon and fried eggs were cooked.
I asked the mum (I am crap at names) if she had a set if scales
And she appears with them
Okay current weight is 170lb
Wow that’s 48lb I have lost but then I was overweight to start.
I was fairly pleased with that.
Okay I finished packing and I was ready. I walked back into the kitchen and just to be noisy got back on the scales.
So with shoes.fanny pack and my pack . Deduct my weight and my pack weighed 58lb. Wow that’s heavy but I have full food and 3 l of water .
By the time I was ready the family had all gone out. So I closed the door and headed down the street.
I was heading back towards safeways as that’s the road.when I arrived I crossed over and took up my stance. Nothing….
Mmmm okay I will walk to the correct road as this one splits.
Hope I get a ride before it starts raining as the skies were turning darker.
Okay I crossed over and stood by the correct road.
Nope nope nope nope
All of a sudden I heard Snailtrainer.that made me jump.
A car had cruised up behind me .
Snailtrainer the voice said again
How do you know my name I replied
Because your famous the driver said.
I laughed
I noticed thst he had two oassengers inside either him
I’m just going to drop these two off in lordsville and if your still here I’ll take you to the pass.
As he said that then two cars stopped for me.
How spooky was that!!
So great I’m.back at the pass and on trail.
Again I thanked my driver and headed back to the trail the rain began to spit so I stopped and put on my rain gear
I had just finished when a couple coming the other way appeared.
And said its going to rain all day.
Thank you so much I said
I headed down the trail that was very well maintained almost immaculate.
I met several bikers and their dogs and gave the customery how’s it going
I came to what looked like several large kilns . But without any signage I wouldn’t know their purpose.
I pushed on I the rain shortly meeting 3 drenched girl hikers coming towards me. But they all looked extremely happy.
I wasn’t looking for big mileage today 8 or 9 would be good.
I pushed on down the trail. It waa fairly kind with not many biggish climbs..eventually I could see the main road again I did debate about calling it a day. But it was far too early . Before I could cross he road I had to cross the railway . My first I think on this trip. . Once across there was a small climb. And then the trail stayed fairly level.there were some remarks in guthooks to take the forest road. As there was less climbing so I did.
This then turned off and spat me out by Hale camp.
I had seen this on other hikers blogs and was fairly interested
It was a camp set up in the second world war to train elite soldier’s in artic warfare
I walked along the long line of billets ? . Guessing 2 stayed in these small rooms in bunks ?
Okay I think we have done enough for today and need to get the tent up before the rain returns.
TOO LATE whoosh and big claps of thunder. F*uck thst was bad timing I choose a dorm and sheltered inside. It may stop I said wishfully .
But it just got heavier and if you looked both ways it was just mist and cloud.
Bugger bugger.
Okay I cleaned up the dorm the best I could as I may be sleeping here!!
Not my prefered option but its too wet to hike on and the rain doesn’t look like stopping .So putting up my tent in the rain is not what i want to do.
I got out my mat to be comfortable. Then got out my stove and made hot chocolate
Mmmm. Ohhh the rain its stopping.
I quickly packed up and we were out of here.
I pushed on up the trsil but was feeling a little cold and stiff.
Come on snail . We can at least do another hr .
I pushed in up the first road getting passed by 3 trucks and their caravans.
I kept on pushing and the rain kept threatening. Okay it’s almost 5 now I need a spot
Just off trail was a large tree.Yes that will do I can get my tent in there. It was fairly dry beneath the tree always helpful.
Once up I threw in my gear. Inflated my mattress and then got into my bag.
I slept really well last night.i packed up and just had my tea to drink before hitting the trail
Okay lets go..it was a cool overcast morning as I strolled off down the trail.
The lakes looked stunning in the early morning light.
Suddenly I didn’t feel well I felt nauseous and dizzy .
And had to stop and sit down . I really didn’t feel well. I sat for 10 minutes and didn’t feel any better.
Could maybe lunch or a bad batch of water.
I am seldom unwell and so I wasn’t sure what to do although it seemed unwise to head back into the wilderness.
I decided to hike back into town .
Once in town I visited the restroom for a while.
Brought a fresh bottle of water and dumped all I was currently carrying.
Okay plan B my next town was leadville so let’s see if I can get there.
Ride one was quick,that dropped me off at the intersection. Then a nurse picked me up from there and dropped me off at the fire station at Leadville
Okay I set off for the “the clouds in the sky hostel “.but when I arrived it was fully booked.
They suggesest the Abbey.
So I rang them. Yes they had room and was just a block away
On the way I passsed a train museum .the big diesel engine was just warming up,ready to take passengers on a tour.
Okay the Abbey,i checked in dumped my stuff and quickly had a shower. Once back in my room I lay on the bed then promptly fell asleep . I didn’t wake up until 8am the next day
Maybe it was partly exhaustion I had been on trail a few days with big climbs, but I still think food or water poisoning.
It took a few tries to wake up. But once the plug was pulled on my bed I had to get up.
I quickly stripped down my tent then put on water for tea.
I was just drinking it when yader appeared from behind a rock . And then Keebler also appeared.
Snail how ……
We all laughed . They both set off along the trail.
I finished my tea . Stowed my cup and I was also on my way
It wasn’t long until Pittsburg caught me we gave each other abuse as he vanished up ahead.
Then I was at the bottom of the dreaded climb just over 2.5 miles up and I would climb over 2000ft.
I just cant wait…..
I set off and it was almost vertical at the bottom so more of a scramble.
Come on snail little steps . I slowly crept up the mountain.it was morning I’m fresh with loads of energy lol.
I climbed higher and higher stopping regularly to gasp for air about 1/4 way up I met yader who was taking a break. There was a lady with him. Who was a trail person.
Through gasps I said it’s too bloody steep.
I pushed on or rather chugged on and up eventually I emerged out of the forest and could see how much was left to climb.
SADLY. About 1.5 miles oh joy lol.
I carried on chugging up and was now on the switchbacks that were slightly more forgiving. Right at the top I could make out a figure it had to be Keebler or Pittsburg omg that’s high.
But I was getting there and 2 hrs later I crossed the saddle.
Wow the views from up here were amazing. The trail lady took a couple of photos of me.
Then it was down.
There were a few ice bungs then it was slippery shale before I was on solid ground.
At last I could push
I was heading to town where nice things were…..
The trail meandered its was down and once again it was hard work trying to keep out of the numerous streams and bogs
I entered a forest then popped out into a long meadow before going back into the forest. As I decended. I met numerous people going the other way.
Several joggers. Day hikers. People just walking their dogs.
Soon the river joined me as I just kept heading down and down and down
At last I came to the shortcut (trail) this one doesn’t take you around the lakes.
I popped out by several ponds before crossing over a large bridge over a raging river.
Okay now to Town.i stood by the road for a few minutes but thought it was bit too dangerous where i was.
I began to walk but the hard shoulder wasn’t very wide.
Luckily a couple stopped and soon I was outside the store.
I thanked them and walked to the store. There were numerous faces thst I hadn’t seen in a while.
I dropped my pack by Yader and went inside.i grabbed a gatorade as they had no lemonade shock!! A tub of blueberry ice cream and a can of beer.
I took that back to my table and slowly enjoyed it.
Then I visited the food truck for a burger. Again very tasty.
The rest of the afternoon was spent gossiping with the other hikers and finding out what their Resupply plans were and which towns they were planning on visiting . my shedule is fairly flexible but plan to visit
Leadvile next.
Rain came to break up our chilled out day ,rain jackets and pack covers quickly appeared.
Okay guys I’m heading out going to do 2 miles and camp
I headed for the road and quickly got a ride but was chatting so sailed past my stop and ended walking back.
Okay im back on trail.
Water is at 1.7 that will do me then a suitable spot.
As I was removing my rain jacket as the sun was now trying to roast me yader caught up.
I followed him to the water.then headed down trail a little ways.
I quickly got my tent set up and tea on the go.
Then Keebler and Pittsburg from the other direction. Which was lucky. As I had missed a turn and was on a side trail.
So at least I’m going in the right direction tomorrow.
It’s no good I need to move.i let out the air from my mattress then went and got more water.
As I emerged the other two hikers Pittsburg & Keebler were also packing up.
Dropping a wet tent is just as much fun as putting one up.
It had rained through the night but luckily it had now stopped.
I put every thing I could inside my pack before starting on the tent.
I unpegged it and released the fly from the tent . I rolled it back before giving it a good shake then Drooped it over a tree.
I folded up my tent and put it in its bag.i did the same with the footprint. Then I put my soaked fly into dry bag and then into the tent bag.o will try and dry it sometime today.
The two boy’s (Pittsburg & Keebler) headed out. I just had my tea to finish and I’d be after them ha ha.
Okay we are back in trail 6.45 a little late but hey Rain !!
The trail then crossed onto a dirt road and there was,a sign saying mystery House. So when the trail dived back into the woods I stayed on this track.
I began to climb and then followed the trail. The morning was cool but not cold except for my hands yes I need better gloves.
I soon came upon two old dilapidated wooden log cabins. I looked inside one before moving on. Next came a newly built huge log cabin.
Wow I’d love a place like this.
I carried on along the road until it reached the Cdt trailhead. I was just reading the board when Pittsburg arrived followed by Keebler. HOW ……
I was surprised to be ahead .as I had spent a lot of time looking at the cabins.
I set off after them . But the trail was up so I couldnt match their pace.
I watched them disappear into the distance.
I was struggled as the trail crossed numerous streams and bogs all while climbing
After reaching the top of one part I had to cross a wide section of scree. There were cairns to direct you but some of the big slabs moved when you stood on them.once crossed there were several snow bungs to cross over.
Finally I was at the top.okay what’s over the saddle
I reluctantly peered over. Thank goodness I was heading down.
The downs were switchbacked . But still incredibly steep.
Once down I pushed on down the trail. But it was slow going as I Once again I had so many streams to cross. I guess I croosed well over a dozen . Some were easy other were fast flowing and surrounded by deep sticky mud.
Some of these streams flowed into the many lakes. That looked gorgeous with the sun shining on them
I unpacked it and pegged it out in he sun. The wind and sun soon got the job done as I finished off some snacks and an apple that I had packed out.
Okay I needed a break and as it was sunny. It would be a good time to dry my tents fly
I packed the fly away and continued down the trail.
On my map it mentions ghost Town.
I thought that it may be interesting and as I am also a tourist I thought yes let’s take a look. It was off trail but I could detour back when done.
Also I have food and a tent.
I turned right from the official trail and headed down a dirt road.
Thst was labelled old cdt.
I followed this winding road . Several jeeps came passed with children hangng out of the windows and laughing .
I pased by a sign for Hancocks pass and then headed to the Ghost town. Mmm nothing here
That was disappointing.
Oh bummer. I turned around and began to follow the old train route back to the Cdt.
The good thing about this was the gradient. Not so steep so it was easy to walk along.except there was so much water where large streams dumped their contents.
In some places you could still see the sleepers or what was left of them.
As I walked on I met several families on their way back from this trail.
Okay im hot .lunch break and time to remove a layer.
I found a suitable rock . Dropped my pack and ate lunch
After 20 minutes i was ready to go. I swung up my pack and was just adjusting it when Pittsburg arrived.
NO you cannot be behind me.!
shortly Keebler appeared
Snail how….
I explained Ghost town toursist .
Weall headed off together but Pittsburg is fast and hexwas soon why out in the distance. Keebler then stopped to text his wife.
I pushed on up the old railway. In places the snow had blown over the trailing other places there had been rock slides. I tried to imagine how the railway coped with all this. I then came to a sign telling you about the railways and a competition to design the best snow clearance device. Very interesting as I had seen these machines at the Charma railway museum.
Eventually the railway became single trail again and with it snow. I was crosing a large snow Chute when Keebler appeared and found a better way to cross.
Then I came to a huge snow Chute and halfway up was Keebler. Omg I have to climb that!!
It actually waa easier than it looked and I was soon at the top.
Except I wasn’t the trail climbed sharply to my right… Really I said to myself and set off after the boys.once over the trail dipped into the valley before climbing out Once more. Great I thought more climbs.
But I seemed to have plenty of energy today so powered up the second hill.
Over the saddle and below i could see Pittsburg & Keebler taking a break.
Just once more small climb snail then it’s all downhill.
We sat here for almost 30 minutes before Keebler got up to push on.closely followed by Pittsburg.
I took up the rear. .yes yes once over the next saddle the trail did indeed head down.
As the tred was good I was able to get some pace and sooon caught the to boys in deep thought.
Look snail.
In front of us you could plainly see the two routes the Red the official zig zagged steeply up the mountain almost to the sky.
The other took a more sedentary route up an Jeep track.
I had already decided on the alternate.
Pittsburg & Keebler moved off and once again I’m in pursuit lol.
As I approached a forest the trail became very manicured I crossed over a sturdy bridge and into a forest.
The trail was immaculate. The tred uncluttered and the sides of the trail pegged with tree trunks.
Looks very smart and omg there were switchbacks .to be fair they were a little over kill but I’m going down not up. Of course there were about a dozen blowdowns to navigate over or around.
It was at this point I hit my hiking wall and my engine became a plod (limp mode) imploded down and down and down omg it was a long way down.
Eventually I exited out into sunshine and crossed over another bridge as I crossed I noticed a tent up to my left with what appeared to be someone sleeping. Well that’s a bit early !!
I carried on town the trail in the lakes to my right I could see a family fishhing.
I carried on okay this will do, I climbed up a small hill
Snail snail here….
Pittsburg & Keebler had found the perfect spot.
Their packs stood by their chosssen spots.
Is this space free I said pointing at the dirt.
All yours Snail.
I dropped my pack then went in search of water with Pittsburg.
We quickly found then returned to our camp to set up.
Once that was all done we all sat on a huge log and cooked dinner.
Both boys did double ramen.
Funny I’d never think to do that.
I peeled my orange that I packed out and offered some to the boys before cooking my ramen (single portion) washed down with several cups of tea.
We would of sat chatting for longer but once again the Mossies thought we should go to bed
So great to have a lie in ,in a soft comfortable bed
But even though its a zero I have chores.
I got up and went to see what they provided for breakfast.
I grabbed a coffee and then got scrambled egg.sausage and hash browns. The breakfast was tasty so I had more washed down with orange juice. And to finish off toasted bagel with jam.
Okay to the postoffice.
It seems recently that what ever end you stay at in town,it is great for somethings but not for others.
Typically every thing in Salida is downtown over a mile away .
But it’s a lovely day as I set off in search of the Post office.and its a carnival weekend so there is a buzz in the air.
I walk past about a dozen floats and people in costumes.
Eventually I find the post office and yes both pairs of shoes are here. (Thank god !) I bounce 1 pair and take the others with me.
I watch the rest of the procession then do some window shopping.
There’s a great outfitter so i have a wander ,there’s a few items I quite like but the price is too high.
But they have sterilising tablets which I’ve been looking for for my water bladder.so result.
Just around the corner there is street dancing. So I visit the bar opposite and enjoy a few pints and a reubens (sandwich)
Have to say I’ve tried a few and this is the best so far.
Okay time to head back . As I wander back I’m pleasantly surprised at all the houses all different shapes and sizes and all unique .
Once back I try and track down my missing packages. But ideally it’s best done on a pc not a phone. Sadly it’s just not user friendly.okay next town then.
Okay it’s a zero. So relax crap tv a couple of beers and chips
In-between I slowly packed up
Back to the trail tomorrow.fingers crossed with the weather as its looking like rain
At 5 am my alarm went off ,I snoozed it,and again on the third one I switched it off and pulled the bung on my mattress.
I love that hiss.
I was slightly chilly as I emerged from my cocoon. Quickly put on my puffy and shorts and went for a wee.as I opened my tent flaps I was surprised to see at Keebler was entirely packed up.
Omg he is keen.
I returned to my tent stuffed my sleeping bag into its compression bag and stowed it.
Rolled up my mattress and put it too in ins stuff sack
Pittsburg packed up at a much more sedate pace. But he’s fast and although Keebler was marching out to the trail . Pittsburg would quickly catch him.
I emptied my tent and filled my pack. I Unclipped and unpegged my tent.tgen before packing it away put on water for tea.
Then packed up.my tent. When that was done I made tea whilst putting the bits into my pack.
Lastly I drank my tea.clipped my cup to my pack and I was done.
See you up the trail I said to Pittsburg as I made my way back to the trail.
The first osrt was a bout 2 miles off up on a jeep track. They have engines so don’t care.
I seemed to have better speed this morning and was climbing it quite well.my feet crunched over the ice reminding my fingers how cold it is.
At the top of the first segment I noticed a path marker which cut a big piece off of the jeep road. So I took it it was a bog… but luckily as it was so cold it was all frozen so I could walk across without getting wet feet.
Halfway along I spied Elk . Lots of elk about 40+ elk. I stopped to capture them on film.
Wow and the noise they made was awesome.
Okay Snail you have hot te video of Elk .now let us do miles.
I carried on .on this path eventually meeting up with the jeep trail.
As I rejoined I could see Pittsburg towards the bottom ,he will soon catch me.
Once at he top it was time to go down. The jeep trail snaked down the mountain for miles and miles.but once again the scenery was just wow.
Down and down I spiralled,wow rhis is a long track.
Soon I heard a weird noise .but it was only Pittsburg with his ear buds in singing ..lol
He quickly passed me and i became the chasser
At the bottom was Mirror lake. I had to cross several small streams,before being able to walk around it but the path soon vanished and you had to use to use rocks (stepping-stones) to navigate around .
Mirror Lake
But then the path/ road reappeared . I could just see Pittsburg in the distance so followed in that direction.
The dirt track carried on passing another trail head with toilets and beams to tie up horses.
The sun was now out and it was going to be another beautiful day.
I pounded down the trail feeling very happy. Wow that’s a great camp spot. And wow that’s a great camp spot. In fact there were numerous places to camp.
Okay almost 10.30 i will stop for a break shortly.
There that’s a perfect spot.
I sat on barrier made to stop skidoo from entering the forest.
I opened my app to check on the water availability.
Omg Fuck fuck.somehow I had missed a turning and was on a snowmobile track (mainroad)
I said a few more f*ucks very loudly.
Okay I’m not walking back. .if I carry on it’s a bit like a dog leg and I should be able to get back on trail and use the timberline trail to intercept
Perfect okay thats plan A
I felt much happier now so continued down the road.
As I walked a buggy came up and a buggy went down ,then a oldish camper van made its way slowly up.
In the distance I could see houses (Cabins) I eventually arrived in Tin can .I walked through. I would guess these ate people summer cabins as most had shutters on there windows and doors. Okay get to the cross roads turn right that’s simple.
When I got there.the road was being graded .by a huge scraper and behind that was a water truck .
I watched for several minutes quite fascinated.
Then I noticed the local shop.
I dropped my pack outside and went and brought a gatorade.
I sat in the morning sun watch dad’s and their young children fishing in a small pond opposite.
The owner of the shop said we often get hikers in and I can hold their food boxes and do laundry for them.
That’s great I said .I will post that on Facebook.
I sat watching the world go by. I was just about to leave when the store keeper Gave me another gatorade free for the trail. I thanked him shoved it into the back of my pack then headed out.
A little way down the road I noticed a lot of something in the trees. When I got closer it was full of old tin cans. I later found out this was the local dump for the mining company that was once there. . I carried on down the road until a car stopped and asked if I needed any help?
I’m trying to get to cotton wood trail said.
No problem .he open the door and pulled up he seat then opened the trunk.
I pushed in my pack then got in
The driver was from Texas but has a cabin here . This man had rescued many hikers on the past and referred to himself as an Angel. His companion was intrigued by this and wanted to know about the Cdt etc .when I started and what I carried. It was a really great journey to the cotton wood trail.
I thanked the driver and his companion and got out
I thought the driver was going to hug me but instead he laid a hand on my shoulder and said a prayer
For me. I was completely humbled.
I retrived my pack thanked them both and set off up the trail to get back to my trail.
The path was fairly steep. But whoop I’m back on trail.
But I’m behind shedule now. Oh well i will just walk and see what happens.
The trail was actually well maintained enabling me to get a resonsble pace plus it appeared
Flat
I was really enjoying myself but it was nearing lunch time and I was hungry.
When I came upon a stream . It was the perfect place to stop.
I dropped my pack filtered water and ate my lunch.
Okay snail let’s go we need 22 lol
The afternoon was similar to the morning nice trail, not too much climbing. I pushed on , the trail meandered in and out of the forest and then beganbto climb and climb sharply… I began to puff and puff.until at last it leveled and then began to snake down. It looked like we have skirted an old bog.
As I came out of the trees I was met with another gorgeous lake. I know I gave seen loads but they all look so gorgeous .
The trail followed around. But then I lost the trail.okay this way
I came to a large metal bridge over the river. Once again it looked just so beautiful. Clear sparkly water flowing beneath.
I crossed over . And was in two minds to stay here.as it just looked so picturesque.
I stood there for 5 minutes trying to make ip.my mind.
But it’s 2 miles to where the official Cdt is…..
I hoisted my pack and marched off down the road. The sun was now extremely hot and I was pleased to have shade
I the distance I could see a man and his dog. I watched him stop and snap on the lead. Seems to be customery here.makes sence to me
As we passed we said hi and the dog barked at me.lol
A few more yards and I was at a wide stream. Hmm how am I going to cross that?.
I luckily found a large branch across it and with my poles wa able to tightrope walk it great dry feet
On the other side was another woodland with numerous firepits.
I decided to stop for another break. I got water and filtered it.
I’m curious about fire pits and what people leave.on the first one I found 4 aluminium tent pegs and then another.
I lined them up on a large rock then went back to my pack..
As I sat a very quite Jeep came down from my right and through the stream I had just crossed.
I love a jeep to play out here with big sigh lol.
Okay come on snail let find that trail…. I carried on up the road backed by huge mountains . Again its just so pretty out here.
Okay the road is a dead end sotge Jeep deriver must have just driven up and gone back..
Okay im back on trail…..
But omg it’s steep. The trail just climbed and climbed. No switchbacks just up.witj the obligatory downed tree and trees to climb over.
I struggled up the trail puffing and panting like an old train and yet tge trail still climbed and climbed.
Omg omg .puff puff. I began to hear running water or rather gushing water and soon I could see a fast flowing creek on my left further on I had to cross it.
Luckily I found a log so my feet are still dry.
I checked my app my target was in .5 of a mile. But still the trail climbed omg come on I said to noone.
I plodded on and up and then I could see flat spots perfect perfect. I quickly found a decent spot and then went for water.
I soon had my tent up and tea brewing.
But once again the Mossies were determined to spoil my party.
I gave my legs and arms a good spray. But they were just bloody annoying. I msnged to cook tea and eat it before giving up and hiding in my tent
I was up and packed up most of my gear whilst still in my tent.
Great practice for a wet morning !
When I finally emerged the sun was just beginning to rise and no sign of any mossies yet.
I finished packing drank my hot chocolate and I was ready.
I was on trail by 6am and today I am heading to town or hopefully I am.
I started the climb that I didnt
want to do yesterday.it looked worse last night. But it was a fairly easy one. A little way up I passed through a gate and over a stream .much better than the water I grabbed last night.
The trail followed the contours of the hill before opening out into the forest,but the trail was a mess due to dirt bikes cutting huge ruts into the dirt that then fill with water and become a complete bog.
I manoureed my way around the best I could trying to avoid the mud .At last I exited out ofvthe forest onto rock, but it was slippery gravel and the next minute I was lying on my back.
I’m okay so scramble up and continue. In the distance the trail appears to wind downwards below me . It wod be easy to short cut down.but I’m not sure if it’s “My trail”!… so I continue on and luckily its a different trail s the CDT takes a sharp left. Just as I turn I notice a tent to my left.
And smile to myself.
The morning is waking up and ahead I see a deer standing in the middle of the trail .I stop and call out “Good morning Deer” to my surprise a second one appears then a third. I watch them force few minutes before moving on sendingbthem bouncing through the woods.
In front is now a sign telling motorised vehicles to now take a different route. YES!! The trail now returns to a lovely path and I can walk normally, but it’s getting warm and I’m over heating .so as soon as a suitable stop appears I drop my pack to take off a layer.
It was then I noticed that when I fell over my ice axe pireced one of my water bottles (the full,one)
Oh well I can get a replacement in town.
I headed off down the trail I was then surprised to see a lady on a bike cycling towards me I was more impressed as she was cycling up a very steep hill so I thought maybe it was electric .but no she was peddling. We greeted each other as we carried on our journeys .
The trail now skirted around another hill but in the distance I thought I could make out a road.
Eventually I arrived at the trail head. I checked my app to make sure I was heading the right way.
Yes its goes through the park(Trailhead)
As I walking along road a car appears and stops. It took adies who are day hiking part of the Colorado trail (CT).we chat for quite a while before I head off. Atbthe bottom ofvhevoark is a toilet so it would be rude not to use.
Okay back on trail and on another jeep track that typically climb steeply, unlike me. A little way up is piped spring so I stop to get water. As I’m filling up the two ladies I spoke to earlier appear
I will catch you later I say and laugh.
The jeep track now turns into a a single hiking path and levels out,thank god.
I’m then startled by a huge dog followed by 5 blokes and two other dogs they are out for six days and are all very chatty. I wish them well and push on .
The trail then crossed a large scree and sat in the middle enjoying the amaxing views were the two ladies. I was just taking a photo when Mountain-goat appeared. It was good to see him as he was a little poorly when I last saw him at Lake City.
As we both walked past the ladies they offered us half an orange each.
Mmmm that tasted so good.
I walked with mountain goat for a few miles before i gave up on his pace. ONLY 10 MILES Snail…
Wow really. But we were now heading up and it was a steep.climb.. Mountain goat was already half way up.omg that’s steep
I tooka big breath and began climbing.once up invoiced two more big climbs in the distance
Really I said to myself..Fuck.
I could see my fellow hiker in the distance..
Actually the climbs were not as bad as they looked and I had soon completed both .
I stopped to stare at a signpost 5 miles to to monarch pass
I pushed on,on a meandering path that vanished into the distance. I must have zoned out as the next minute i was startled by a big dog,who.i also startled he belonged to two cyclists. We all appogised to each other.
Then the lead cyclist said three more behind.
Thank-you I said and walked on.
It wasnt long until I was passed by the other cyclists.
As I came over the brew of a hill,sat by a snow bump was mountain goat . He was making good himself a slushy with snow.
We set offagain together but as it was now downhill untill the pass I was able to natch his pace
He was very chatty. Told me off for saying “Fuck ” alot . Told me about God and his theories about the state of the US.
Well these conversations took my mind ofvthe hiking and we were soon cruising into the pass.
There is a cable car that takes tourist’s up the mountain.we walked under it snd too the store.
We dropped our packs,I grabbed a gayor aide and a bottle if lemonade that i had been craving for a while. I then ordered some chillie nachos, they were so tasty We were joined by another hiker but I forgot his name.
He recommended a hotel. Seemed had got a great deal.
Okay i need to try and hitch into town. But as I walked to the door it began to poureith rain.
Okay I’ll wait a while.
Wow amazing in 10 minutes the storm had passed and the sun was back out.
I said good bye to my freinds and headed back by the road.
10 minutes and I had a ride.he was a surveyor who worked on the roads.
He dropped me off at the hotel.
I walked in they had vacancies.
But when she quoted me $480 I almost died (festival weekend)
I did some grovelling and negotiating and $120 a night Inc breakfast. Yes please
I have a lovely room untill I exploded my pack.
Shower first…oh that’s better I’m clean.then I headed up to walmart. I didn’t need much but still.managed to spend a lot. Abd carrying it back to the hotel was heavy, luckily a group.of great guys stopped and gave me a ride back
Thank-you so.much guys.
I decanted most of the food.ice cream in the freezer. Beer fridge.
( important items) Next was laundry. Okay now to chill
I slept so well nice spot but in the morning it was bloody freezing.
So I switched off the early alarms and finally emerged at 7am shocking lol.
It was a quick pack up as the bloody mossies seem to love me
The morning trail was so nice and easy I was annoyed that I didn’t go on but I was exhausted..but being where I was I had cell service so could get my phone sorted.
The morning forest was really airey and cool in the morning sunlight. I saw my first squirrel. Funny I thought I would have seen more but its another animal to tick off my list. A little further I came across mother and Daughter hiking they were just doing a small section of the CDT.
I wished them well and we went our different ways.
The next water was in 7.6 miles so thst was my morning target except about an hour in watch died. So after the next climb I stopped took off a layer and plugged my watch into my battery pack. OK now we can get that water. The trail was fairly littered with rock but i felt I had good pace.i was in forest for mostbof the morning then dropped down into a lovely meadow.this meandered for a while before heading into another forest. I was on another forest road that suddenly began to climb and climb quite steeply .I soon needed another break. I needed a log, there perfect. I dropped my pack . Next to me on the log was a pair of abandoned glasses. Mmm better than mine.
I chomped on a snickers and glugged some water.
Okay trail…but this road climbed even more steeply. Come on snail you got this.at last it evened out and I could make more pace.
The trail headed down and then across several meadows. As I walked down the trail I could hear the sound of water. Great . I stopped and filled two bottles then looked for somewhere to have lunch.
I big fir tree with lots of shade.
I dropped my pack and filtered my water then had lunch.
Spam packet, trail mix. Jelly worms and apricots yummy.
FOOD OF CHAMPIONS
Okay milage I had done 8. Could I squeeze in another 8 this afternoon.. but there was a huge climb at the end .. oh well let’s go.
The trail was very easy few ups and downs but good to walk on
Then I heard a weird noise I stopped and behind me came two dirt bikes. Wow. Don’t know why but I found this really amusing. Bastards didn’t offer me a lift lol..
I pushed on and in several hrs came to another stream ,I decided to water up in case I didn’t make my destination.
I hadn’t gone much further when the climbing started. It wasnt that steep asi new what was coming it was about a 1000ft climb but you normally climb a bit go down a lot climb some more etc etc.
At last I gotvto the big climb and to make it more fun the mossies returned. I don’t know whatvthey like about me but then desended on me in clouds. Every time I stopped to get breath they attacked FUCKERS….they are not supposed to be out yet so I am not carrying any spray.
The climb was really steep and long and trying to swat these bastards away is a nightmare. Several times I stopped and let them land so I could splat them but it was just a pain.
At last I was out of the forest and with a bit of a breeze they vanished. I began to head down and was looking forward to a nice camp site..
..but omg no. They trail dipped then climbed straight ip another mountain. FUCK no I’m not doing that tonight.. as I said this the mossies returned on mass.
I quickly scouted for a tent spot.
Perfect. It was up in record time
I threw I my pack zipped ip the tent and I was done.
I ended up cooking on my tent. Not something I like to do
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