Since I was shuttled last night from the CDT trailhead on the southern shores of Twin Lakes to the Twin Lakes Inn, I’d missed several miles of trail that run along the lakes’ northern side. So today, after a great breakfast at the inn, I first stopped next door at the Twin Lakes General Store.
Here, I picked up the package I’d mailed myself, then bought a new Sawyer filter and some treats (candy and soda). Then I headed out to do an out-and-back on the trail.
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Leaving the Twin Lakes Inn
The trailhead is 1.2 miles (1.9 km) from the inn. When I got there, another woman about my age was trying to hitch back to the spot where I’d ended yesterday. She had just hiked the little piece of trail on the north end of her lakes, but did not want to retrace her steps.
The day was sunny and warm, and the trail was mostly flat and crushed gravel, so it was 
very easy going. I made it to the end, rested for a bit, then hiked back. I love slackpacking!
Oh, I did notice a bunch of helicopters lifting water out of the lakes in giant cans to help fight the La Plata wildfire. I could smell the fire yesterday and today, plus the skies were hazy all day.
Hanging at the Inn
When I got back, I met another hiker, Scott “Shroomer” Williams. After chatting a bit, we agreed to have dinner together and talk all things hiking. There are always food trucks outside the inn, plus the inn has a bar. Perfect!
Shroomer and I had a great time talking about all of the different trails we’ve hiked, both here and around the world. We’ve done a lot of the same ones. We even know some of the same trail angels!
Snowshoe
Today’s Miles: 8.8 (14.2 km)
CDT Miles to Date: 872.6 (1,404.3 km)
CDT Miles to Go: 2,227.4 (3,584.7 km)
My favorite gear today: My ultralight day pack, which I can easily stuff into my backpack.
