Salida to Leadville (7/6-7/12): 110 Miles
Leaving Salida we had nothing but good feels after 2-0 days behind us, and good forecast ahead of us (aka no rain). We had been hearing from CT hikers and locals that this part would be one of the bests while on the CT: The Collegiate Mountains.
To test us, our first full day back on trail was a 21 mile day with 5,000 ft. of vertical gain throughout. We had amazing views + completed 5 passes (see below for individual pass elevation). Our night ended tucked away besides some pines at 12,000+ ft. near a stream, with the sky brewing a storm, but never raining on us. Instead, the sky showcased soft pink and purple views.
We continued on in the wilderness, where we decided to camp at Texas Creek - a water system flowing good enough for us to soak our feet in. We wanted a good nights rest, as the next day was getting over Lake Ann Pass.
10 miles of pretty much constant up, we got to Lake Ann Pass and for once, didn’t have to rush down because of a dark sky. We enjoyed the views for a while, where it felt even better for me because I finally found a rhythm in my walking on my way up. Trail legs?! Though the up was sweet, we had to navigate the snow cornice on the other side to get down. We carefully walked around it, where hundreds of other CDT, CT and day hikers had done the same, creating lose rock with each step. We got around it and enjoyed the views of Lake Ann: another beautiful pool of turquoise water.
Our uphill battle wasn’t over with quite yet for this section, though. Hope Pass was up next the following day, where we would gain 2,500 ft. in just 2.3 miles. My confidence from Lake Ann Pass quickly shattered with this climb, but the victory just as sweet. Views for miles.
We were able to bop into Twin Lakes before getting to our final destination of Leadville: A less than 5 mile detour to Twin Lakes with a food truck and general store sounded too good to be true. We roadwalked into town, grabbed a burger, some beer and chatted with other hikers.
Town day was yet again timed out perfectly, as we arrived on July 12th - Ross’ 32nd Birthday!! A shower, laundry, drinks at an 1879 saloon and Mexican food with friends made it all even better.
Pass Elevations:
Chalk Creek Pass: 12146
(No Name) Pass 2: 12312
(No Name) Pass 3: 12103
(No Name) Pass 4: 12870
(No Name) Pass 5: 12779
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