And Then It All Turned Green

The trail out of Cuba, New Mexico was eight miles of road walk, the last five of which were on dirt and gravel.  The forest roads slowly climbed the mountain as the vegetation became denser.  At the trailhead, the sound of flowing water rang through the silent trees.  Jumping out of my shoes with joy, I rushed around the next corner of trail to find a stream flowing strong.  After washing my face with fresh water, I strode confidently into the green tunnel.

Dirt and dandelions!

For the past week, apart from the descent into Ghost Ranch to grab a resupply box, this section of trail has taken me through the Santa Fe and Carson National Forests.  Water is abundant and subsequently, the land has changed before my eyes.  Sand of the desert has given way to dirt while the cactus has been replaced by towering pines and glowing aspens.  Rolling hills gently escalate as the trail leads northwest towards snow littered mountains. 

Good view from up above

Today marked my last steps on trail in New Mexico and the first of many in colorful Colorado.  Yesterday I arose late and with sore legs after doing my first 30 miler the day prior.  The last stretch of trail in the Carson National Forest was incredible with my 32nd day on trail ending atop Brazos Ridge.  Into the evening, I enjoyed this open ridge walk while watching the sun slowly get lower in the sky.

First views of Colorado!

I picked up a pair of microspikes from the post office today which I ordered ahead back in Cuba.  There will be some snow at higher elevations but have heard optimistic reports from those further north while more snow melts every day.  Sixty-nine miles between Cumbres Pass and Wolf Creek Ski Area after which I will be getting off trail for a bit to see a good friend in Durango, to celebrate my 26th birthday (June 8th!!), to rest and to let some more snow melt.  Thanks for reading!

”For how can one know color in perpetual green, and what good is warmth without cold to give it sweetness?”  — John Steinbeck