Updates from the trail

Since my last post the trail has been a whirlwind of new adventure. With Roxy's stamina and physica. fitness wavering, we've had to take things one day at a time. Some days she is full of energy and ready to tackle all sorts of challenges, buy other days she is barely walking and struggling to even get out of the tent in the morning. Today we are resting in Lake City, Colorado, because after a 4 day and 60 mile stretch of trail, Roxy is very stiff and tired.

While we rest and recuperate, it is exciting to look back at all of our recent pictures and admire the epic views we've seen. I'll be uploading an album to Facebook soon. Here are just some of the exciting events we encountered during our journey:

● Moose! Although they are common in Maine, I never saw any moose during my Appalachian Trail hike. It was amazing to come across a ridge and see several moose grazing at a pond in the valley. 

● Freezing temperatures. It's summer, right? We were very surprised to wake up one morning to frosted plants and a frozen bowl of water. Apparently winter doesn't give up easily in the mountains. We have had many snow banks we've had to cross and very dramatic and sudden changes in temperature. 

● Killer instincts. Any time we are above treeline and I can see for miles, I let Roxy run around of leash. She has been struggling with the fact that there are absolutely no toys to play with and entertains herself by chasing mountain mammals. Amazingly she managed to catch and kill a mouse during one of her escapades. 

● Tough terrain and epic views. During this latest stretch of the Colorado Trail we spent the majority of our time above treeline. This meant traversing rocky outcrops, steep ascents, and long stretches of trail without shade or water. Although strenuous and physically daunting, the trail rewarded us with some of the most scenic and stunning views we have ever encountered. 

It is hard to belive we only have one more week left out here. Too little time to sit around playing with a phone while there is still so much left to explore. It is unlikely I'll update again during this trip, but when I'm back in the land of flat, I'll be sure to reminisce about this epic journey. 

The mountain meadows are bursting with colorful wwildflowers. 

High point of the Colorado Trail! Suprisingly much less scenic than I expected.

Just admiring the views with my bestie.

This was the trail. Roxy found it hard to believe we were going to hike straight up a pile of rocks.