Colorado Trail hiker survives storm

A Colorado Trail thru-hiker faced a near-death experience during a severe thunderstorm while exposed high above treeline. The hiker, reporting for The Trek, hiked 23.1 miles on Day 24 and plans to take a zero day in Silverton after catching a train the following morning.

The day began with magnificent sunrise views from camp, including a return visit to the trail's highest point. The morning offered sweeping, wild vistas in every direction. Miles felt cruisey despite the terrain. The hiker pushed for distance because the entire route was above treeline. Only two section hikers were seen all day.

Moose Sighting

The hiker spotted a moose grazing near Cataract Lake, marking the second such sighting on the journey. This positive moment was captured on video. The day's tone, however, shifted dramatically in the afternoon.

Storm Panic

Storm clouds rolled in from all directions. Exposed on rolling hills, the hiker could see rain falling everywhere and hear distant thunder. Panic set in atop a climb, leading to hyperventilation and tears. After a brief descent, a lunch stop and a glimpse of sun provided slight relief. The rain began again on a plateau, bringing deep sadness and uncontrollable crying.

With minimal service, the hiker made calls to friends Erika and Carter for comfort, sobbing through the conversations. Harder rain forced the call with Carter to end. The emotional low was severe.

Exposed Camp

Past 6 p.m., near a couple of lakes, the hiker decided to set up camp despite a Garmin weather check indicating more rain. A rainbow during setup offered a needed sign of hope. Menacing clouds soon approached, prompting the fearful thought, "Oh my god, I'm going to fucking die out here." The location was still above treeline, with over 30 miles since proper tree cover. Shelter options were limited; the map showed only more exposed uphill trail in both directions.

The storm hit with a massive, sustained gust of wind that threatened to destroy the tent. The hiker physically supported the structure as crackling thunder erupted directly overhead. Fear peaked with thoughts of lightning strikes or the tent flying away. The intense cell passed in about 15 minutes, but another treacherous cloud loomed. The hiker improved the tent's stakeout points and dug a trench before the next cloud missed the site.

Emotionally spent, the hiker repeatedly thought, "I hate it here. I want to quit. I want to go home." The plan remained to hike 9.5 miles early the next morning to catch an 11 a.m. train to Silverton. After Silverton, about 73 miles of trail remain. The hiker doubts actually quitting but is eager for the zero day and hopes for more forested sections ahead. The nervous system was still calming down past hiker midnight.