I had a great overnight adventure on the Colorado Trail this past weekend. I completed a 20.4 mile southbound hike from Chalk Creek to Highway 50 near Salida. Amazing views. Great trail conditions and great weather. No snow (on the ground), ice, rain or mud. Visiting from MN for my niece's graduation, I thought I would give the trail a try and see how I react to the elevations before considering a long hike of the trail next summer (maybe a thru hike). Elevation was not a serious issue. Just huffed and puffed a little more. I did have some anxiety because I expected trail markers and blazes as often as I see them on the Superior Hiking Trail. I found this part of the trail only had trail markers near trail intersections. My anxiety was caused by not being 100% sure I took the right trail and then didn't see any blazes for hours. The trail was clearly identifiable, just wasn't sure if I was on the right one. I also was a little ignorant as to the colder temps in higher elevations. Temps overnight at nearly 10,000 ft fell to around 20 (about 20 degrees cooler than my brother's house in Salida). I had a 20 degree TQ and UQ, and was fine...just surprised.
There was a lot of climbs and down hills but the majority of them were gradual. This portion of the trail was a multi use trail where horses and mountain bikes were also allowed. I saw a number of mountain bikers in the first five miles and then didn't see many people (bikers or hikers). I think bikers would have to care their bikes for some portions of the trail. I expected the trail to be easier being a multi use trail, but it did have some challenging areas and my pace was similar to the Superior Hiking Trail (2 MPH).
I didn't see many animals, but I saw some elk crap and some cacti. Great time and I will be back next year!
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