Overnight on the Colorado Trail

We are in the midst of some warm weather here in SW Colorado, day’s in the mid to upper 40’s, nights hovering just below freezing. On a whim, I put together a quick overnight kit with the intention of a low milage overnighter. I got the chance to use some new equipment: Seek Outside Divide and an MLD balaclava. I live about 5 miles from the southern terminus of the Colorado Trail and after a hitch to the trailhead, I was on my way.

The walk up to the trailhead

I got to the trailhead about 4pm partially due to my indecision about going due to the late hour, and partially due to no one wanting to pick up a dude with a giant backpack with snowshoes strapped to the back.

The snow was not in the best condition – it’s been a week or so since we got snowed on last and consequently snowshoes were more of a burden. Microspikes and following in others footprints worked best.

Destination in sight.

I made it to Gudy’s Rest (~4miles) just as the sun was going down and called it a night. The weather called for no precipitation so I just through down a bivy and started dinner.

A small amount of graupel fell about 3am and continued for about an 45 minutes. I started worrying after about 20 minutes and rather foolishly decided to drape my tarp over me and wait it out. Thankfully it let up.

I was rewarded with this sunrise. Made it back to the house before noon for a much needed breakfast and coffee.

Great trip!