The sun doesn't shine down as early when you're deep in a valley, subsequently the birds stay quiet a little longer. Waking up to eat breakfast right next to a beautiful river is very nice, so I took a little extra time to masticate.
Setting out at 9am, I was welcomed back with 6 of the easiest miles I've walked to date. Walking beside the winding river and tributaries, I made my way to a shelter for a quick early lunch.
I enjoyed a couple of my pizza tortilla wraps while chatting with Yin, Yang, and Palm Tree. It was brief, but energizing, which I knew I would need for what was yet to come.
Right off the bat the trail went uphill, but quickly turned into the steepest bit of hiking I've done. It was only about a mile of really steep, but it definitely exhausted me. Thank goodness it was only a 12 mile day.
Once I arrived at Sugar Run Gap I followed the signs toward Wood's Hole hostel, just .5 off the trail. By this point I had been out of water for 5 miles and was desperately thirsty. I was greeted by Suds, who was taking a zero here today, and I ran to the fridge to grab and down 2 sodas. Wildly refreshed, I took my shoes off and stayed awhile.
Soon we were joined by Meta, Stonechair, and Tapeworm. They informed me that Stonechair has to leave the trail and tomorrow is his last night. He has to leave because he's out of money, so thank you again to all who've donated. This sad news was greeted with the appropriate response: farewell party tomorrow. Instead of enjoying a zero we're going to hike 10 miles down into town, get a hotel room, and toast Stonechair's departure.. many times.
Mr. Fantastic arrived soon after, as well as Wendigo, Hoppel, 4 thru's I haven't met, and a couple of section hikers. Wood's Hole is full up tonight, and Dick Flap still hasn't stumbled in.
While they weren't making their typical full organic dinner, fresh bread was being baked and they had great cheeses to offer. The best were the fruit smoothies made with Amish ice cream. The whole place is very interesting, with dogs, chickens, goats, pigs, and a beautiful garden. Let's not forget laundry and a hot shower. With these kinds of luxuries and such a beautiful location, it hardly matters how challenging the day was. Hopefully the 10 into town tomorrow will be relaxing, but not before a promised breakfast of cheesy grits and cinnamon buns. If I go to sleep now will morning come sooner?
