Up and Over 10,000’ on the Colorado Trail

Day 3 – Meadows Campground to Lost Creek Saddle, 18.8 miles

Today felt like a make-it or break-it kind of day. Almost the entire day was uphill, steadily gaining over 3,500 feet of elevation. I’d top out just shy of 11,000 feet, a real test to see how well I’d handle the altitude. I was definitely feeling a bit sore and somehow my bag felt heavier than the previous days, but nothing was overly painful.

Today was also much less about epic views and more of a long walk in the forest. The first handful of miles were a good warm-up with a few downhills thrown in for variety.

Then it was on to the climb. The trail followed old forest roads for a few miles, which helped to keep the ascent at a steady grade. It was interesting to watch the forest gradually change. Aspens started to become more prevalent, especially near creeks.

I took a long lunch break at a decently flowing creek where I could soak my feet. The water was so frigid that I could barely keep them in! It definitely made a difference for the rest of my day to have taken the time to soak my feet and air out my socks and shoes.

I’d strategically planned my lunch break before the steepest climb of the day, which would take me up over 10,000 feet. It was a relief to reach the top of the climb and enjoy a mile or so of gradual descent.

The rest of my miles for the day followed a beautiful meadow gradually uphill. I kept my eyes on the clouds, hoping that I wouldn’t have to deal with a thunderstorm. One rumbled and grumbled behind me for a while but thankfully it was headed in the opposite direction.

I was almost to my campsite when one rolled overhead. It looked like a small cell so I opted to shelter in some trees and avoid the pouring rain. Maybe that would be it for the day?

Alas, there was one more storm on the horizon. I’d gotten my tent set up at camp and had just sat down with my dinner when the clouds opened, dropping hail and pouring rain. I managed to shelter in some trees to eat before retreating to my tent for the night.