Footpath, Segment 23, Colorado Trail, CO (8)

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Footpath, Segment 23, Colorado Trail, CO (8)
Footpath, Segment 23, Colorado Trail, CO (8)

CO (San Juan County)

Day 6 near Cataract Lake to Stony Pass

A bit chilly by the lake but tolerable. I was packed up and hiking by 7:15. The sun was out but the mountains kept it from shining on me. I am always hiking before the rays of sunshine can warm me in the tent although there is a better chance of that above treeline. The initial discomfort of the cold fades quickly once hiking and coming out of the shadows of the mountains is always welcome.

The frustration from the day before was over; nothing to do but hike. It was still challenging through this 'roller coaster' though. One thing I've always enjoyed about the Colorado Trail is seeing the footpath twisting and turning in the distance. This portion of the trail had some interesting rock cairns. Cairns are used to identify where to hike when the footpath is not visisble due to snow. Especially critical above treeline. Posts are used often as well.

There were still quite a few hikers out, even some heading to Denver. Someone mentioned the possibility of snow next week. Feet of snow; not the dusting previously experienced. The probability of thunderstorms diminishes in September but the threat of snow increases. Very dangerous in the higher elevations. Fortunately for me I was finishing up this hike.

I was making better time today and the hiking was enjoyable. The landscape was still lacking color but I did encounter an interesting water flow. Although not so grand, I took a short break at the headwaters of the Rio Grande. Hard to believe that this is the beginning of an 1896 mile river. No canoeing at this point but it was suitable for a water source to quench my thirst.

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Taken on: September 5, 2020
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