Day 33: July 12

A 54 mile day from Aspen to Leadville turned into one of our most difficult days. Mentally!!! WE Were put into a position where we had to decide whether or not to continue biking. First 20 miles out of Aspen were climbing, climbing what many local cyclist tend to do (recreationally or as a part of the USA Pro Challenge/America's Race) to reach the top of Independence Pass 12,000 ft high this mountain stands. Challenging to some, easier for those not carrying their house on the back of them, but yet this climb is doable. 3 miles from the top and four hours later we realize we are running out of water. On the side of the rode we have to decide whether we take the risk of no water on the other side and continue the rest of the 3 miles up, or turn around go downhill to Aspen to rent a car to get us over. Nick disappointed and me completely embarrassed we put on our wind jackets and continue backwards passing all the hard work we just did. We pass through town and head towards the rental cars; after talking with the rental car guys we come to find out that the only drop off for the vehicle is in Denver. So it looks like we will be touring Colorado by car. After getting over our disappointment, we load the car, up Independence Pass we drove. Later we come to find out once you reach the top, five miles downhill and another 15 miles or so to Twin Lakes ( a very small town we did not know was there as it was only represented as a lake on the map) where we could have gotten water. Who knew???