Odometer: 1,682 miles. Today: 119 miles.
The Colorado Trail is a 486-mile hiking trail through the Rockies, connecting Denver with Durango. In the summer of 2021, Samuel and I hiked a 160-mile section of the trail, called the Collegiate Loop. I was so happy to come back with Janet and hike 2.5 miles of it!
We spent a fine night at Monarch Spur RV Park and Campground at 8600 ft, which kept it nice and cool at night! It was a lovely campground with a beautiful stream running past, surrounded by mountains, and a dog park for Saydee to run in!
The following morning, we were ready to hit the trail! After finding that the trail from our campsite to the trailhead was closed, we drove around and just managed to squeeze Arvan into a spot.
We walked 2.5 miles along the Colorado Trail. Most of it was uphill, taking us up to 9,600 ft. I think the altitude confused Saydee, who wanted to run and couldn’t understand her body’s reluctance! We loved the trees, the deer, and the river.
It was a lot easier walking back down! This section of the Colorado Trail climbs a steep hill up to Monarch Pass at over 11,000 ft. This was where Samuel and I started our two-week walk five years ago so it was fun to return with Janet.
The most difficult part of the drive so far was coming down from this pass. My right shin was screaming! Anyhow, the road leveled off and took us along the Blue Mesa Reservoir.
Our day’s destination was a national park that you’ve either never heard of, or struggle to remember its full name. Nevertheless, it was very cool, but that’s tomorrow’s story!
The Adventures of the Cajunlimeys 