Got packed up pretty quick in the morning and decided to swing by the visitor's center on the way out to check my messages. It was open early, and I never miss a chance for coffee so I stopped in.
Met Crush and E.T. who are finishing their through hike started last fall. Got caught up chatting with them for about an hour before hitting the trail.
Climbed back up on the ridge for a morning of hiking. I noticed that I could see cooling towers to the west that were visible from shelter two nights ago. It's always amazing to see the progress by landmarks.
Overtook Chewy and Sassy on the trail. Unfortunately I dont recall their hiking plans because we just talked briefly.
Later on I came across none other than Crazy B having a snack with Two T's. Great to see her back on trail. She gave me a few updates on the other hikers we both know.
Most importantly Pat got named FB so I'm interested to find out more about that. She also thinks Otter and Sparticus are south of us so maybe I'll get to see them again!
Hiked through a pretty warm afternoon. Planned to get water after "Rattlesnake Mountain" but it was heavy with tannins and I didn't want to subject the filter to that.
Made it to a big road crossing and walked down to Gyp's Tavern which is known to be hiker friendly. Also biker friendly. It was on a beautiful lake.
Had a beer and some food with 2 northbound section hikers and 3 southbound ones. Pretty cool randomly meeting up like this and having a relaxing meal.
The southbounders were from a Minnesota hiking group. The northbound guys were from Massachusetts. The later group was heading to the same shelter as I.
Put down the last 3 miles to the shelter but decided to tent because of the mosquitoes. Nice to have the spring, bear box, and privy to make camp easier. The shelter is 67 years old. Wild.
Today I broke 300 miles!