I knew today was going to be a lot of physical and emotional ups and downs when I looked at the trail profile the day before. Even with this expectation, I was unprepared. Silver pass was beautiful as they all are, gorgeous aquamarine alpine lakes, a few snow fields here and there, marmots scurrying amongst the rocks.

Two separate ascents followed the first; I always struggle with climbs in the afternoon in the heat of the day.

We were able to take one last dip in a Sierra lake four miles before our campsite which brought everything into a fresh perspective, even the last climb of the day.

We met another person from Colorado today which was exciting! We’re not always on the same schedule as new folks but it’s fun to find new people we may eventually adventure with when we return.