Luscious once again wanted an early start since his resupply box was waiting 24 miles up trail. He needed to pick it up before the post office closed.
The hostel owners had chickens and brought eggs in for the hikers, so I made scrambles for both of us early risers. Luscious was trying to empty his food for the upcoming resupply and shared his remaining cereal with me, which was quite good. He also gave me some of his custom trail mix!
Out the door by 530 riding back to where I started my slack pack yesterday. Obviously today I go north instead of south.
Beautiful colors in the sunrise while driving. This was most of the sun for the day unfortunately, after it rose it was overcast.
In stark contrast to yesterday the woods were unremarkable. Many miles of brown trees with scrubby green underbrush. I saw at least three groups of deer as I hiked.
Came across two guys working on the trail. They had lugged a chainsaw in and were clearing trees across the trail. We chatted a little and they mentioned that the next shelter had a brand new privy this year. Excited to try it out!
At Wind Gap I saw Katara and Indy taking a break. We discussed the upcoming water availability and where we were headed today. Originally I was planning on camping but it was early and I was feeling OK so I thought maybe I'd press to the shelter. There was a chance of rain after all.
Getting to my potential campsite and seeing the stagnant spring there sealed the deal: I was heading to Kirkridge Shelter.
The last 3 miles went up and over Wolf Rocks for one of the only views of the day so far.
Arrived at the shelter which also had a bit of a view. The view came with a price: heavy wind straight into the shelter. Wind chill made cooking slower and standing around uncomfortable. So after dinner and cleanup, straight into the sleeping bag.
Katara and Indy showed up later. Both are doing flip flop through hikes. We are all heading to Delaware Water Gap in the morning for various needs. I'm considering going into town for the shoe store but haven't decided if its entirely necessary.
Gear Gab
On a final note I thought I would describe my sleeping gear. I use a down sleeping bag (not shown) on top of a inflatable pad.
The pad is for comfort, but more importantly insulation. Since the ground can be cold you need some sort of thermal barrier and a sleeping bag doesn't cut it because it gets compressed under you.
Finally, in the shelter I put my tent footprint down to prevent debris or splinters from damaging the sleeping pad. I made mine from Tyvek house wrap which is light, durable, and waterproof.