Highlights:
– Raleigh flight booked
– Found a filter and a new sleeping pad!
– Enjoyed a delightful cortado
Daily Summary:
– Distance hiked: 40 km + 6-7 km in Helena
– Starting point: MacDonald Pass
– Ending point: Pond after km 616
– Weather conditions: Hot
Daily Reflections (challenges, insights, musings):
The day began with a cold shower, which was surprisingly refreshing. I then had hot coffee and a conversation with Peter, a 66-year-old biker from Santa Cruz who takes care of his 93-year-old mum. Feeling inspired, I hiked 5 km downtown to get a filter and found myself looking at flights. I booked one to Raleigh.
A delightful cortado lifted my spirits, and I bought a new sleeping pad and a new water filter along with some other minor essentials.
Frank, an 81-year-old former US military serviceman, gave me a hitch, even taking me to his home to fill up on water. Hiking was initially tough with all that weight: 4 liters of water and 4 days’ worth of food.
I took the yellow line and got a 2-mile ride from a UPS driver. The road was infested with big trucks and caterpillars, making the hike less than pleasant. Along the way, I met four NOBOs, including a father and son duo, and a SOBO with a bad knee.
Now, it’s time to sleep. Tomorrow is another day on the trail.
Sunrise at the camp spot
A good cortado is hard to find. This one didn’t dissapoint.
Evening in the woods