3 Highlights:
1. Hot spring
2. Espresso by Swiss drummer at paid hot spring
3. Beautiful views
Daily Summary:
– Distance hiked: 44 km
– Starting point: Turquoise Lake
– Ending point: Above Shoal Lake
– Weather conditions: A mix of rain and sun
Daily Reflections (challenges, insights, musings):
Woke up on a tilted floor, which made for a night of sliding around like I was on some kind of weird camping slip ‘n slide. Breakfast was cold coffee—because nothing says “ready to tackle a mountain” like lukewarm sludge.
We hiked for about 4-5 hours until we reached Granite Creek Hot Springs, a business establishment that, for the low, low price of $16, will let you swim in their hot springs. They also have picnic tables, so we had a nice lunch and bought some overpriced candy. Feeling like true trail connoisseurs, we then crossed a freezing river to reach a magical, free hot spring just beside a large waterfall. We steamed there for 30 minutes, soaking in the glory, then promptly went back to the store for more candy. Oh, and I got a hot espresso from a friendly Swiss drummer who’s decided to pick up the banjo. As you do.
After that luxurious interlude, it was time to pay the piper with a brutal ascent up to over 3150 meters—a cool 1455-meter climb. It was tough, but the views were worth it.
We kept spotting moose tracks, but when we got closer to the top near Shoal Lake, we found out they belonged to some very large llamas. Apparently, a family was up there fishing for trout, and the llamas were just hanging out like it was no big deal.
We crossed paths with Grebbit a few times during the day and finally caught up with him near camp. His hiking buddies had gotten lost, but they sent him pictures of beer, so clearly, they were doing just fine.
We set up camp around 21:00, just in time for a lovely rainstorm from 20:00 to 20:30. I’m now wet, cold, and really starting to think I should’ve stayed another 30 min in the hot spring.
Good night! ❤️
