Wow, what a crazy day’s hike to Cottonwood Pass. As I noted yesterday, I didn’t hit my goal mileage, which made today’s even longer (17.3 mi / 27.8 km). I woke up at 5 a.m. and got on the trail by 6:20 a.m., hoping for the best.
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The day began with a long downhill on a soft surface – yay! – and then came the first climb. It was long and hot, but I made it. The views were spectacular. But the middle miles before the next big climb were not easy.
Hoofing It to Cottonwood Pass
First I crossed a boulder field that was about 1 mile (1.6 km) long. That was tough. Then I came across vast fields of shale. They were arranged into a path, but it was still hard on the feet. These shale fields kept popping up. I reminded myself I WAS in the Rocky Mountains, so I couldn’t really complain.
Once again the views were spectacular. I passed many people on the Colorado Trail 
heading in the opposite direction.
At the start of the day, I thought it could take me until 8 p.m. to reach the trailhead. But I pushed myself hard and made it there by 6:15 p.m. But I am SO beat.
Tucking In in Buena Vista
I had reserved a lodge room in Buena Vista. Trail angel Kim shuttled me from the trailhead and even took me into downtown so I could buy some pizza (and beer) for dinner.
I got to my room, ate dinner (I was starving), then showered. Now it was time to do the laundry. Much to my dismay, it closed at 8 p.m. and I got there at 8:01 p.m. It doesn’t open again until 8 a.m., and that’s when Kim is supposed to shuttle me and another hiker back. But I really need to do my laundry. Not only is everything dirty, but one of my two shirts is all bloody from a tumble I took.
And so the pivoting begins! Maybe Kim can find another trail angel to shuttle me mid-morning. Or maybe I’ll stay here another night and she can take me on Friday. It’s always something!
Snowshoe
Today’s Miles: 17.3 (27.8 km)
CDT Miles to Date: 856.2 (1,377.9 km)
CDT Miles to Go: 2,243.8 (3,611.1 km)
My favorite piece of gear today: My Altra Lone Peak shoes. They have a nice, wide toe box that lets your toes all have their own space. No blisters!
