CDT Day 40: South San Juan Wilderness

Daily Miles: 21.6, Total Miles: 692.0

I quickly returned to 12,000 ft and stayed there most of the day – breathtaking views in all directions.

Still plenty of large snowdrifts to get through and a few dicey, steep crossings. Large sections of the trail are clear but underwater in places. Waterproof socks and snow gaiters are welcome additions on this section.

Had to seek cover for about an hour to let an intense thunder and hailstorm pass.

Saw a pack of coyotes in the morning – I had heard them off and on through the night. And an elk charged down a steep mountain and crossed the trail in front of me – so fast and seemingly barely in control.