3 Highlights:
1. The birds—saw a hummingbird, bald eagle, and raven.
2. Water crossings and a jump into a waterfall from a deadwood bridge.
3. Spotted my first bear paw print in the mud. It was enormous.
Daily Summary:
• Distance hiked: 40 km
• Starting point: Reynolds Creek
• Ending point: Atlantic Creek via Triple Divide Pass
• Weather conditions: Good
Daily Reflections:
Tough climb up Triple Divide Pass. Had to stop a few times to catch my breath and sanity. Started singing in Spanish to the bears, “Osito…déjame en paz…,” hoping they understand my plea for peace.
Independence Day was a birdwatcher’s delight: bald eagles soaring, ravens cawing, and a tiny hummingbird darting around. Seeing that bear paw print in the mud was both thrilling and a bit unnerving. It was a reminder that I’m not alone out here.
