We were 5 or 6 miles down the trail when we came upon a sign noting a mere 13 miles to Roads End. The descent, despite my uneasiness with footing on the downhill, was going remarkably well and even I was finding a grove. We’d not planned to end the trip for another day yet, each of us felt a sore throat coming on and did not want illness to prevent us from returning to work as planned. So we weighed the pros and cons of ending a day early over the next few miles.
Wildlife Encounters
While the rattlesnakes were definitely harder to spot, their existence was never to be forgotten. They were there, hiding in the nearby shrubbery, or in the rock beside the trail’s edge. I spotted three along our 46 mile trek.
As for bears, they were a little more keen in their movement – at least around me. A hiker not far behind us got a nice shot of one just a few minutes behind us.
Honestly, I was a little bummed. Safe bear spotting was on my list for this trip.
The lizards, however, they were plentiful, clearly visible, AND happy to be photographed.
Up and Over Glen Pass to Charlotte Lake: Day 4
Our day took us up to the tippy top of Glen Pass. My ability to hike from 10,500 to 12,000 feet in a matter of a couple of hours really blows my mind. I am both amazed and thankful for my health & fitness, endurance & strength. Without these, I would not be able to take on such an adventure and would not have enjoyed the spectacular view from the top.
Sun rising on the lake
The sun has yet to make it’s appearance yet the moon has drawn me to the lake after my morning pee. Lovely, isn’t it?
Since I’m up anyway, I head back to the tent to grab the water filter to prepare for another day. We are taking on Glen Pass today. Going from an elevation of 10,500 to 12,000 feet. I can’t sleep anyways. I’m nervous and excited.
Mule Train
When your worn out from mile upon mile of mounting elevation you begin seeing things. What’s this? A mule train?
Unfortunately, they were going the wrong direction, and there wasn’t any more room for my load.
So, onward I trek.