I have to say, I’m loving the Creede Alternate! Because it’s shorter, I slept in a little and took my time breaking camp. It was nice not to feel rushed.
The miles into Creede were largely downhill – no surprise after yesterday’s insane uphills – but I didn’t go much faster, as the hills were steep and full of gravel.
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Heading South of Creede
Got to Creede around 11:30 and bought some toothpaste and sunglasses. I’d packed lots of toothpaste but couldn’t find my new tube, and I’d lost my sunglasses during that last rainy day heading to Lake City.
Then I returned to Kip’s for lunch. Had a salad this time and ate it slowly while charging some of my devices and catching up on email. This place even has washers and dryers for hikers (and others). Wow.
Last Stop in Town
Next up was the chamber of commerce to grab my box of food. I didn’t want to replenish my stores, because my pack already was WAY too heavy. But, of course, I had to. Pam handed me the box I’d dropped off 
yesterday and I decided what to take and what to leave for other hikers.
Then it was time to head out. It was early afternoon now, and hot. The path initially is along a road heading out of Creede, then segues onto the Deep Creek Trail.
This trail is rocky and somewhat overgrown. It unspools along Deep Creek, although it isn’t always easy to access. Camping spots were scarce.
Ending Early
I eventually found a really sweet camping spot right near the creek and decided that, despite hiking few miles today, I’d stop hiking and set up camp here. I didn’t want to be stranded in some awful spot.
I’ve got a lovely, flat site under a pine tree. I was able to really wash up, since the creek is so near, plus hang some clothes out to dry. I feel a little guilty stopping so early, but then again, why not?
I even have wifi, so I can catch up on email and the news.
Snowshoe
Today’s Miles: 11.3 (18.3 km)
CDT Miles to Date: 598.7 (963.5 km)
CDT Miles to Go: 2,501.3 (4,025.5 km)
