Six years ago I trudged up hills and glissaded down inclines and somehow managed to keep myself found in the twists, turns and undulating peaceful serenity of the trail. For the past four days I’ve walked some of those same footsteps, albeit with no snow, and found today parcels of what I’d been anxiously seeking to see again.

Memories and flashes of moments that stay forever etched into one’s mind. How often do memories fade into an obscured interpretation verses the memory that is crystal clear with no kink of the reality?

Over 50-miles had passed since we crossed a stand of trees. Today, we encountered Englemann Spruce jutting high towards the limited sunshine available in the tight, narrow gorge. Having a root hold here required roots to grasp for ground that endlessly slips into the precipitous draw landing in fast flowing, clear water.

As suddenly as they appeared they were gone; falling behind with the relentless climb into a small cirque with its rocky edges and willow choking the center. Branches with arms grabbing and tearing at flesh or any less than adequately attached gear hanging from a passing pack.

Foot placement was often unknown and perilous. Sun blanketing green leaves with ample sunshine allowing the annual growth to choke the landscape.

Sweat is pouring. The tops of my hands reddening. Legs shaking with exertion. I’d smile but I’m winded. The views are stunning.

The willow spits me out with no warning to a meadow that climbs unabashedly. Tripping over rocks; I refuse to concentrate on anything but my smallness in the greatness of this vast expanse. I pant but slow none for I know what lies ahead.

Nebo has a black snarling face and a moat-like lake that protects his front. His back bears the brunt of seasonal winds; his statue foreboding. But what lies before him is an alpine jewel with a mini landmass in its center. I’ve only seen her bright blue – with white fades and streaks on breaking ice – her openness today was juxtaposition to the daring Nebo.

I stared fondly, impressively and wildly at the privilege to be so near to the heartbeat of this creation before making a turn that led me over the saddle that would take me to yet another side of paradise.

Few clouds shaded these next meadows well above the treeline. Willow persisted with edge line groupings (and groping’s) holding the trail edges in place with their anchored roots that crisscrossed beneath the fine soils.

Lakes deep enough for an invigorating dip became more frequent and called for releasing toes encased in boots. Each lake required another climb and concluded with another viewing of an omni-changing landscape.

Last pass in a day of multiple climbs; too short descents and a hillside of willow waited without a word. One mile, two hours – branches sneered as they ripped skin and shredded with relentless persistence. No clear trail was found until the end though pieces of our ramble indicated the history of a trail once being constructed (long before the willow had grown over my head). The weaving clogging branches allowed for moments of walking on willows; risky maneuvers that had distinct advantages!

After clearing the green I turned around anticipating the willow to be doing an orchestrated stadium wave of the victors. Yet I saw only quiet ambivalence to our passing.

The willows protect tonight’s camp in a small draw where I’m craving salt in a dinner of spicy happiness. The fudge grahams are a bonus in a day of landscape rewards with meaningful challenges. I’m reminded that my presence is only as a visitor – in a backdrop where much energy is placed into mere survival – the will in the willow is to live.

ABOUT US AND OUR ROUTE:

Together, Boone and I have over 30,000-miles of backpacking experience. We made a conscious decision to hike over 20-miles per day to reach our goal for this particular hike. We would not recommend you do the same but instead that you take the time to enjoy the grandeur of the divide.
Our route followed the Colorado Trail and Continental Divide Trail beginning at Spring Creek Pass and coincided with the guidebooks related to both trails.

If you would like more specific information pertaining to the planning details of this particular hike please contact Stacy at info@stepoutdoorscolorado.com.