Very lucky with the weather and was able to cross the high points without thunderstorm activity. Seemed to be climbing all day. Hit the high point of the Colorado Trail 13,271’.
All the climbing and thin air made for a long day but doable with my better legs and air. A week ago this day would have been misery and I would have arrived at camp about 2 hours later.
Saw so many eco systems today. Started in trees, then high and open for miles, then dropped into an ATV/Jeep playground. They were everywhere. Went around a hill and climbed a rocky valley which eventually turned into climbing a high saddle. Then dropped down to a beautiful lake and camp. As I type this I am watching two moose in the lake. They are a ways off but I can hear them splashing.
14.5 miles today which seemed longer. Hit camp at 4:20 which is nice. Elevation is 12,199. Mile 380.
So glad I am hiking better and it is cooler. Downright cold in the morning makes it hard to get out from under the down quilt. Time for bed, 7:02. Sure beats hiking till 9 in the rain.
Should be done in 7 days.
