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CDT Day 62 Sad to leave Salida

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18th June

11.6 miles

Monarch Pass (899.2) to Bushcamp (910.8)

Salida was a difficult place to leave. I must admit this trail has worn me down, physically and mentally. I felt refreshed but I must be honest that I didn’t want to go back to the trail. I’m tired and just want to rest. Colorado is tough but I’m trying to be tougher.

I couldn’t be bothered hitchhiking the 20 plus miles from Salida back up to Monarch Pass. I took a taxi. I didn’t see any other hikers in the area so I set off alone.

The trail climbed up and over 12000ft. My days in Salida had lessened my ability to breath efficiently at altitude. I struggled. I’m starting to wonder if there is something wrong with me. I’ve been to high altitudes before. I’ve climbed Mt Kilimanjaro in Africa and climbed over 20000ft in South America. This altitude is killing me. Several weeks at altitude and I’m still struggling.

With a late start I only made it just over 11 miles. I fought for every step. At times I was almost in tears. I was frustrated with my inability to hike with the freedom I have previously known and enjoyed. I guess right now I’m not enjoying the trail. As I make camp nausea ripples in my stomach. I think I need to vomit. I hope I feel better in the morning. Tomorrow is a new day.


Next – Day 63 Emotional Rollercoaster

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About the Author:
Brad is an Australian who has completed the hiking Triple Crown after he hiked the Pacific Crest Trail, Continental Divide Trail and Appalachian Trail. He has hiked on every continent (except Antarctica) and has cycled from Alaska to Ecuador. He is an expert on outdoor gear currently living in Chile.

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18 thoughts on “CDT Day 62 Sad to leave Salida”

  1. I’m so sorry you have been struggling. Saying a prayer for strength for you! That last photo looks like a beautiful painting.

    Reply
  2. Hang in there!!! When do you think you’ll be in Breckenridge or somewhere “closer” to Denver? I’d be happy to meet up for a semi-familiar face and some food!

    Reply
    • I’m at Twin Lakes at the moment. If I feel fine I’ll be in Breckenridge in 5 days, or so. Would be cool to catch up again.

      Reply
  3. What’s the saying: embrace the brutality. Seriously though, be careful. Don’t push too hard. Smell the roses along the way. Pearl

    Reply
    • I feel like I’ve embraced the brutality. I think I’m just at that low point of the trip, we feel it somewhere. I’ll bounce through it I hope.

      Reply
    • Yes Bob, Colorado is extremely tough. I fear that if I rest or take too long in a town I may not want to get back on the trail, so I’ll keep on hiking.

      Reply

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