The journey from Colorado to Wyoming was a challenging yet rewarding experience for the hikers, who braved the elements and the terrain to reach their destination. The author begins by describing the initial struggle of leaving their family home in Steamboat, Colorado, and the constant battle with mosquitoes. Despite the hardships, the trail offered breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment as they crossed the border into Wyoming.
One of the most memorable moments was the warm welcome they received in Encampment, a small town with only a few restaurants. The hikers were grateful for the resupply at a gas station, which became a recurring trend. The excitement of nearing The Basin of Wyoming was palpable, as the terrain changed and the road walks became more challenging. The author mentions a particularly grueling 25-mile water carry and the decision to avoid bushwhacking by taking a paved highway.
Rawlins, the next stop, was a peculiar town with a strong smell and chain hotels. The hikers were relieved to find a comfortable place to stay and enjoyed the amenities, including a Walmart for their gear needs. The author expresses a preference for steady and consistent hiking, avoiding the temptation of huge mile days, which can lead to stress, fractures, and burnout.
The Basin of Wyoming lived up to its reputation, offering stunning sunsets and the sight of wild horses. The author describes a thrilling encounter with a solo horse that ran up to them and stopped just 20 feet away. The desolate landscape, however, lacked shade, and the hikers had to be creative to find respite from the sun.
The journey continued towards Atlantic City, Wyoming, where the hikers enjoyed a delicious meal and a comfortable campground. The author mentions a peculiar incident with sirens at 10:30 PM, which turned out to be from a volunteer fire station. The final stretch to Lander was marked by a thrilling road crossing, where the hikers were picked up by an 18-wheeler semi-truck.
The author reflects on the beauty of Colorado and the relief of leaving the state, emphasizing the challenges of hiking through it. They express gratitude for the experience and look forward to the next adventure, with a hint of nostalgia for the trail and the sense of accomplishment it brings.
