Elevation changes: 12,467' to 16,240' to 13,386'
Distance: 13.67 miles
We woke to another blue-sky-beautiful morning. Today was the toughest day of our trek. We crossed our highest pass AND walked nearly 14 miles to our next campsite. We began the day with a climb towards a small white chorten on the ridge. Then we turned south into the deep Mo Chhu valley, climbing steeply until we crossed the river. Then we continued to climb steeply, on snow, until we reached the Yale La pass.
It was tricky walking on the snow covered trail. Every step had to be measured. Was the foot planted? Would it break through? Would traction be lost resulting in a fall? And don't forget to breathe! Slow and steady we climbed and climbed. It was cold and windy, especially at the top. No time to waste. We took a few photos and scurried down the other side where we were served a hot lunch near a frozen lake. After lunch, we continued to descend... down, down, down... until we reached Shodu. Once again, our camp was a welcome sight!
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| room with a view |
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| breakfast in another stunning landscape |
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| morning sun on camp |
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| We prepared to hike as the crew was striking the tents. |
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| juice break before the big climb |
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| The trail goes on to the right. See the frontrunners in the distance? |
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| You can see the trail going up in the snow. |
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| Made it! |
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| We ALL made it! Group celebration! |
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| Oh, yeah ... the view! |
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| lunch stop |
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| hot food on a cold day |
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| down we go |
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| So good to see that campsite after a long day of trekking! |
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