Day 3

Mile Marker 30.6 to 56.8 (26.2 miles)

"A Marathon day..."

But today I was optimistic. My body is getting used to being back on the trail, my pack is a little lighter, and the terrain today is not as strenuous. Though this is the Colorado Trail, so constant ups and down are the norm after all.

The first stretch is a 14 mile dry section. Luckily no big ups and downs and it was mostly under tree cover because it was a hot day.

When I reached Straight Creek, I found this shaded spot next to the water and I took my shoes off and soaked my feet in the stream. The water was freezing cold but it felt so good! It's been my routine lately when I feel my feet burning up, that is to stop by a water and soak my feet for a bit.

I laid my foam mat and stretched out as I ate some snacks and hydrated myself. Oh yeah I pretty much snack all day as I don't really have a lunch break. Although I must admit I've started craving ramen. Even on a hot day, a hot ramen sounds so good right now. Must be the salt.

After an extended break, up to Blackhawk Pass, only a thousand feet up. Thank goodness! Also it is a much friendlier ascent as the switchbacks are graded well. When I got above tree line, I could see the top and thankfully today there was no sight of a thunderstorm. It's a clear day, a little windy, but I welcome it.

Upon reaching the pass, the view was just amazing! Super windy though coming from the north. On the way down, I had a small conversation with a bikepacker pushing her bike up in the opposite direction. She said "You're going faster than me." In which I replied, "...because I'm going down." She looked exhausted but I gave her some encouragement that she's almost near the top and it's an easy ride down on the other side.