Day 7

Thursday, July 10, 2014

We have come to the consensus that our trail data book is tricking us. We estimated our mileage today to be 11 miles, and yet again it crept up to 12 as we approached our campsite. The trail today went up and down as the elevation began at 10,600 feet, traversed down through more beautiful flowers and picture perfect Aspen, climbed back up to 10,799 feet, and finally descended back down to our campsite elevation of 10,000 feet. We are exhausted, but the majestic beauty of Colorado keeps us going. 

We woke up freezing this morning and needed five layers of clothing and some hot tea to lure us out of our cocoons. 

We began singing the "Mr. Sun, Mr. Morning Sun" song and soon enough, he came out to play! 

Pippy posing with the "Red Watermelon" and Zippy's "Big Blue Whale"

Some highlights of our day...

We followed a trail like this through the aspen for several miles. 

Yellow daisies to make us smile outlined the well-manicured trail along with other newfound colorful wildflowers 

Hiking at our highest elevation at 10,800 feet 

The panaramic view was as far as the eye could see. Every angle we looked just made us stop and take it all in. 

Pippy was so tired by the end of the day, but she mustered up enough energy to thank Mother Earth for providing this beautiful flower-laden trail, especially the columbine. 

At the end of the day, all we want to do is just stretch out our shoulders and back. 

Awhhhhh.... We are still "hanging in there". 414 miles to go! Bring it on.

Tip of the day: At higher altitudes, it is recommended to drink 2-3 times more water than at sea level.