Belorado to Ages

Day 11

Today I portered my pack. I’ve told my husband that I’d do that on days that either I’m hurting or there are steep inclines and lots of miles. 28k and a hike into the mountains warranted me packing a light day pack with just the essentials and sending everything else on ahead. This abbreviated pack made me think a bit about what was essential vs alternative creature comforts. What’s in my day pack I could, technically, make it across Spain with. Sun hat, sunglasses, rainproof jacket, pilgrim’s credentials, passport, bank card, cash, sunscreen, aloe vera, basic hygiene pack, first aid, and extra water. Made me wonder why I packed so many creature comforts. Oh, yeah – sleeping bag, extra outfit, dry socks, warm fleece jacket, additional toiletries and soap, and sandals. That’s about it.

Portering was the right call. I ascended several hundred meters to over 1000 feet. The landscape changed dramatically from open, rolling fields to thick pine forests. The wildflowers of the lower lands gave way to ferns, short, tiny flowers that do well in low light, and giant mushrooms. At the top of the mountain I hit the plateau and walked on a flat dirt path for miles. There was over 12k without any rest breaks – made me very grateful for extra water and a couple oranges to eat along the way.

In the civilization prior to the mountains I stopped at a bar for a cafe con leche (coffee with milk) and a fresh orange juice. Two dogs waited outside the bar hanging on every word of their respective master’s voice. The wee pocket pup was especially adorable. After I finished my coffee I filled the cup with water to give them a drink.

Got a little while towards the end of the trail I thought I might have taken a wrong turn. Not to worry. The welcome sign at the towns edge says in English at the bottom, “I walked for ages to get to Ages.” Lovely to be here. Had a pilgrim’s menu for dinner and tried the pialla (a local specialty).

Early night.

More later…