The Great Divide Trail (GDT) is a challenging and rewarding hiking experience, but it's not without its challenges. On Day 4, the author encountered a unique obstacle: smoke. The air was thick with it, making breathing difficult and visibility poor. Despite the discomfort, the author persevered, climbing to Sage Pass and continuing on to Scarpe Pass. Along the way, they met three lovely ladies and their dog, Nala, who were also hiking the trail. The author found the company enjoyable and the break refreshing, especially after the steep sections of the trail. They also discovered a spring that allowed them to stay at Scarpe Pass, a lovely meadow with plenty of space for tents. The author's main challenge was the smoke, which made breathing difficult and caused exhaustion. They also struggled with the steep uphills and the urge to keep the dog, Nala, moving forward. Despite the challenges, the author found the experience rewarding and enjoyed the company of their new hiking companions. The GDT is known for its PUDs (pointless ups and downs), and the author found the trail to be a constant climb, both up and down. The author's experience highlights the importance of being prepared for the unexpected, especially in the great outdoors. It's a reminder that nature can be unpredictable, and sometimes the most challenging parts of a hike are the ones that test our resilience and determination.
