high as f*%k in colorado: june 5

Today we ventured to the summit.  It has been a tease since we entered Colorado, seeing the snow capped mountains in the distance.  I just could not wait to frolic upon them, so we did.

The summit was at 12000 feet, snowy and a bit chilly.  I was fine in my shorts, and just had the urge to make a snowball. Although we have, obviously, seen snow before, this was different for me.  It was 80 degrees below and snowy at the summit.  This is something I will never forget.  I am blessed I got to share it with Todd.

We walked around the summit, the altitude has been pretty good to me, so far.  I have not had to use my inhaler or any oxygen.  Todd felt a little funky at the summit.  We observed, took some pics and chatted with a ranger.  We then made our way down the mountain to 9700 feet, and began our hike.

We did two trails  named, “Bear Lake” and  “Alberta Falls”.  We connected the hikes and they were beautiful.  We got 5 miles out of our hiking today.  The inclines are what get me winded, so I rest and keep trucking. I am not certain I would be able to do one of our 1800 foot climbs out here, at least not without oxygen. A simple hike like Bear Mountain, would be real magnified at this altitude.  We will head out again today and get another 5 miles in.   Slow and steady wins this race.

Once again, and in a different state and park, we  passed a few ignorant folks with no clue.  No water, no idea about the complications that may arise with altitude, just strolling along, so they thought.  We passed a few in pretty bad shape.  One woman had no water and was actually keeled over.  I offered her my water.  Altitude sickness is real.  The rule of thumb; hike high, sleep low.  Always stay hydrated.  Todd and I drink at least a gallon of water a day.

We spent a good portion of our day in the mountains and then ventured to Rapid Transit Rafting, and booked our trip for Thursday.  This should be a good time.

We then grabbed an early dinner at Bird and Jim, we had some serious burgers.  It would be difficult to find a shitty place to eat here.  The food along our journey has been awesome, from breakfast bistros, burger joints and fine dining.  Just real great.

Back to the lodge for a peaceful evening by the rolling river.  Watching the humming birds. Going through picture.   Recalling our travel memories.  Feeling very blessed.   Peace from Estes.

PS:  we get high as f*%k by hiking