Up and over

So, today the plan was to hike up and over from Breck to Copper Mountain. Big elevation gain and big descent as well. NOT an easy day at all. And my friend Polly is staying in Breckenridge for a few weeks this summer, so she gamely decided to join us for the 13 mile trek. Her husband, Ed, dropped us at the trailhead at about 9:30 and we started up. This was no PCT grade hike! There was some really steep climbing but with spectacular views as the payoff.

Looking down at Lake Dillon.  I was not having my best day! Not well hydrated. I know better but let's face it, sometimes beer and Diet Coke just taste better.

Climbed to our highest point on the trail so far. 12,500 feet. 

Polly did great! Got to the top where it was cold and windy, so we didn't linger too long, but had to snap a few photos of course.

Murphy, Clean Socks and I ...happy to be at the top :)

We hiked above the top of the Breckenridge ski runs and down the other side over by the Copper Mountain runs.

More spectacular views on the Copper side of the trail 

Got to copper late afternoon and Ed picked us up . Spent another night in Breckenridge. We were all pretty wiped out, so ordered a bunch of pizza, salad, even more Mary's Mountain Cookies, and drank a little wine. Another night of bed and pillows! Ah!