It ended up being a 20 mile day … that’s just how it worked out with the passes and campsite (had to get over the pass to get to this lake)! When I started out from Glen Aulin camp, it was nice and cool, and the first stretch was surprisingly cruisy! Soft forest floor and not too steep.
That changed soon and the “Roman rock roads” were back 🙂 There were some steep uphills and then I had a nice lunch on the sandy beaches of Miller Lake. The breeze was just enough to keep the skeeters away!
Shortly after that the long hot afternoon climb to Benson Pass started.
I find big uphills in the afternoons so much harder when it’s hot, and today was no exception. I took numerous breaks but eventually made it up Benson Pass and over, and down to Smedberg Lake. Gorgeous!
I ran into Joe who is camped with his two buddies JJ and Steve “next door”, currently playing the guitar for all of us. He even agreed to heat up my coffee water in the morning since my gas canister is getting very low (best to save it for dinners).
The view from my tent is great and I’m glad I made it here! Only 48.5 miles to Sonora Pass!!
Going to REI tomorrow and will try some on. My foot is narrow and altras have the wide toe box so not sure if they’ll work. May be too sloppy. You don’t have any complaints about durability?
I thought they lasted as expected (600 miles?) but the Topos (currently wearing) are supposed to have all the same (wide toe box etc) but better durability. They are also supposed to be narrower in the midfoot and heel. Might work for you??
Your toes look bunched together like mine. The toe next to the big daddy even sticks up like mine, on your right foot. That toe of mine always gets very painful and tender. Does yours bother you too? This has been a life long problem. Carol thinks I should have it amputated. I’m still curious about your shoes.
I don’t really have any major issues with that toe or the others. In Altra shoes they are happy! The Topo shoes have been fine so far too but overall I think Altra are slightly more comfortable … Can’t go wrong with those! Do you wear them?