CDT - Day 69 - Stanley Mountain and Fraser
Today was an easy 5.8-mile hike. I reached the summit of Stanley Mountain (12,515 feet) by 7:55 a.m., completing the first and only major climb of the day. Mesa Man joined me at the summit a few minutes later, and we hiked together the rest of the way to Berthoud Pass. Once we reached Berthoud Pass, we quickly got a hitch straight to the Safeway in Fraser. Our driver, Foon, gave me his phone number and told me that if we needed anything while we were in town, just to let him know. Trail angels never cease to amaze me. Our first order of business in Fraser was lunch at Sharky's, where I had a fantastic burger. After that, I checked into the Holiday Inn Express. My legs desperately needed a break. My quads are pretty sore after the relentless climbing over the last few days, so I'll definitely be spending some time soaking in the hot tub tonight. Tomorrow morning, I'll be back at Sharky's for breakfast before hitching back to Berthoud Pass. The next section is only 54 miles to Grand Lake, so I'll be carrying a nice, light food bag for the next few days.