Yes, I like the idea of adding those days to your prelim. schedule and reducing the planned mileage. The San Juans include some rough country! I think the up-and-down along the CT is worse there than the Sawatches, but I've never done the complete thru on the CT (but have hiked nearly every mile of it in sections).


Leadville: nothing against Leadville, per se, but there is just not much to do there, considering you'll be walking right through that country during your through hike. I would suggest staying in or near the city of Estes Park for a few days, and venturing up into Rocky Mountain NP a couple/few times, doing some day hikes in this most amazing national park. You'll certainly get some good altitude training. You could start "low", like 8000-9000 feet in a few areas the first day or two, then get on some alpine trails near and above treeline. It would be a shame to visit Colorado and NOT visit RMNP ! It's the Gem of Colorado. Zillions of trails.

Leadville? Meh. Just another high mountain town. Nice area, but again, you'll be spending plenty of time there.

The only downside of Estes Park is it might be a tad crowded on weekends that time of year.

I also say lose the gaters, and definitely carry a warm cap! I personally think a "winter hat" is a bit much for mid-summer along the CT, but defintely a pull-on wool or fleece cap. And bring plenty of sunscreen! The UV in the CO high country is as high as it gets in the lower 48 of the US.

Finally: don't forget to research and visit some of our world-renowned micro breweries!