What a day! I think I can say that today was my biggest climb and descent ever, in one solitary day. (Well, with the exception of Mt. Rainier). This was only done by the strength of my Lord with much perseverance and determination. And motivated by the fact that my food bag is empty and I’m hungry.

The route I was following is the Silverthorne Alternate. It follows Bobtail Creek and then climbs up and over several peaks and ridges. The path is part trail, part route finding and much scratching my head as to what way I should go.

Like many days, I appear to be the only soul out here. I didn’t see another hiker all day, but I did see a foot print, which I followed. This gave me assurance that I was, in fact, on some course and hopefully, it was going where I intended.

My first climb was through a cirque, that was marked with rock cairns. I had a few route finding roadblocks but after some time, I found my way up to my first peak. I’ll just call it Peak 1. When I made it to the marker, a wooden stick in the ground, I was relieved for only a moment. Where is the trail? It was nothing short of loose sand and marbles that I was to navigate. Oh, my joy ended as soon as it came!

Downhill is my nemesis. I don’t like looking down, hiking downhill, or running in a downward projection. Nope, not one little bit. It was stupid steep and a very narrow ledge that resembled an animal trail. Needless to say, I went very, very slowly until I could regain my composure and breathe again.

Peak 2 was a bit better being there was a trail and no route finding. It switched back and forth for quite awhile and ended up on Alpine Tundra which I enjoy. It’s one of my favorite places to walk.

Then there was Peak 3. It seemed fine and dandy until I noticed the huge rock outcropping. This is never going to end well. The route was typical, steep and slippery. But when I had to climb around the rocky terrain, I was a bit over my pay grade. I really don’t like this part of hiking! No pictures were snapped while hiking, as I was glued to the trail, if you can even call it that.

Peak 4, 5 and 6 were unexpected but much friendlier. The entire day I was above tree line, on mountain tops that were higher than any other peaks I had hiked in recent memory. It was clearly a day, not for an amateur, but a thru-hiker who has God to lead her! I was way out of my comfort zone. Yet, I felt at peace with my choice to be here, hiking in God’s splendor and majesty. Backcountry travel has its rewards, but it should be done with a partner! I’ll be picking up Fearless when I get off this mountain.

Once I reached Ptarmigan Trail, Breckenridge, Dillion and Frisco were visible. You have no idea what a relief it was to see civilization rather than endless mountain ranges! I called George and cried with relief to hear his voice. There is something about talking to the one person in this world who understands my heart, who supports this endeavor and who somehow, always answers the phone when I call. Especially when I’m on top of who knows where! I love you more than you’ll ever know, sweetheart!

The route down was littered with fallen trees, like a tangled up jungle gym. But that was a welcome sight. It was obvious that I wasn’t the first one hiking through, as there were workarounds throughout the forest. Chipmunks were chirping, birds were singing and I was on my way to a warm bed and a hot bath! Once I exited the trail, I followed a dirt trail that took me through a neighborhood. I put my sticks away and within a few minutes, a nice couple stopped and gave me a ride to the Super 8 Hotel. Thank you 🙏

Today was, indeed, a culmination of many months of preparation and a bit of grit. I depended on the Lord to guide my every step, give me confidence and wisdom to find the best path and felt his constant ever presence. What an incredible gift that I have , in Christ Jesus!

“Exult in his holy name; rejoice, you who worship the LORD. Search for the LORD and for his strength; continually seek him. Remember the wonders he has performed, his miracles, and the rulings he has given,”. ‭‭ 1Chronicles‬ ‭16‬:‭10‬-‭12‬ ‭NLT‬‬