Day 52 Del Norte CO to Summitville CO

I had been alone in the hostel, not even a manager. All managed by security codes.

Del Norte Hostel – open plan – 8 bunk beds lounge & kitchen

Before leaving, I bumped into Joao again, we had a little chat on yesterday’s ride & bike issues. He needed to stop over. For me, though midday, I was keen to tackle Indiana Pass, the highest point on the Divider at 11,910ft.

The ride gradually left the plains & reentered the Rockies for the 23mile climb.

Del Norte – Farmed Bison

Del Norte house – planning permission does matter too much here

Today’s Ranch Sign – Quaint

Homesteads often decorate their fronts with old wagons or farm machinery

Reentering the huge Rio Grande NP

The summit above the tree line, may not be the most spectacular view but to me, a major milestone in my journey!

Views looking back during the climb

Indiana Pass – highest point on the Divide. (disappointing to discover no signs)

Photos near the top of the pass

Looking back to the north, I could see rain, to the south, clear skies & the route to New Mexico. Who could want more!! One complaint, the summit of the pass is not clearly marked.

By the time I reached the gold mining, ghost town of Summitville, it was less than 1hr to dark. The place dates back to the 1880s, & at its peak, had 1,500 residents – the last 8 occupants only departed in 1956, forced to do so because they were polluting the water. Unlike South Pass, here I could touch the past & remoteness.

Tonight, I selected the least derelict home & slept with the ghosts – for one night only – increasing the population from zero to one!