September 4th and 5th
Dan works out at the same gym around the same time as me. He was interested in hiking part of the trail in Colorado. He put a huge effort into planning, gear and getting in shape.
After I did my usual town chores we got together for dinner. I was a little embarrassed because of how much food I ordered, but figured he might as well see what hiker hunger was like. As if on cue, the rain that had held off all night came down as I walked back to my motel.
We set out the morning of the 5th. It was cool seeing things through his eyes. Nice vistas, cool mountain sides, beautiful creeks were thing that I had been taking for granted. Dan quickly reminded me why I was out here.
Going up to Eccles Pass, Dan thought this area looked like a place he had backpacked as a young man. It turns out he had been on this portion of the trail almost 30 years before.
We cruised pretty far. The altitude was starting to take its toll. It was impressive how Dan kept grinding away at the trail.
We camped up high. I believe the saying “camp high, hike low” is true for adjusting to altitude. Even though it was cold and windy, Dan was adept at setting up his gear and cooking a hot meal. He knew his stuff. I was thankful.
backpacking over the hill 