The team has made it to Cottonwood Lakes trailhead and is preparing for takeoff.  Time for one last coke from the cooler before heading up the trail.  It's also time to check everything in our packs.  A mistake now hurts for 6 full days.

The sun was intense up here at 9,625 ft.  Sunscreen required.  Temperatures were in the 60's... perfect for hiking.