June 16, 2021
Miles: 15.5 miles
Steps: 37,912
I knew it was going to be a tough day as I had 5 good size climbs to do as I had 4,300 ft over 15 miles. I found it to be harder than I thought.
I was meeting Brad at Cottonwood Pass so wanted to give myself plenty of time to get there. I was going to wake up at 5am but I was too tired and figured I could afford an extra hour of sleep since I was only going 15 mile, yesterday bushwhacking off trail really took it out of me.
Had to climb right out of gate with the first mile in the woods with very nice switchbacks until I got above tree line. Then I had lots of rocky trail for the next 8 or 9 miles.
Each time I got to a peak I had an amazing view but then it went straight down into a bowl. For the most part I had to deal with large rocks or snow on the trail. This made the hike go real slow and wonder if I would make my 2pm meet time.
The first 3 passes were the same, very steep at the start and end however I was rewarded with great view.
Once I got past the 3rd pass the trail was much more gradual and less rocky, more like a PCT trail.
The last 5 miles all the way to Cottonwood Pass was some of the best views I seen and great hiking.
Arrived early to Cottonwood Pass, 1:30pm. As soon as I got to the parking look I see dark clouds starting to form at the peaks.
Brad arrived right at 2pm and drove back to his place. First thing was take a shower then laundry. Then got all my gear cleaned up so tomorrow I don’t have to do any work, I can just relax. I was also really looking forward to soaking in the hot tub.
After all getting cleaned up Brad and Becky took me into town to this great pizza place, I do love pizza.
After dinner made a quick stop at the store to do my food resupply to get me to Twin Lakes.
Went back to the house and just hung out for the rest of the night. Also took a long epsom salt bath.
Tomorrow will be a zero day where I won’t be doing any hiking. My body sure needs a rest.
I’m so thankful to Brad and Becky for taking such great care of me. This what I really needed after Colorado beating me up with their high mountains, thick snow and rocky trails.