Bubbles Day 25 (Thursday, April 21st)

Today was a short hiking day. We originally planned hiking 17.1 but only hiked 6.2.  When I made it to Tom’s Run Shelter I knew that I needed a rest.  I couldn’t push myself to go further knowing that I am going to get new boots in two days.  

We spent the day lounging and meeting and talking to people.  We met a nice gentleman from Germany named Gunnar.  He was so cute.  Every time I said something he would giggle.  He was super kind and cool.  He had European Coke bottles too which was cool!  

It was interesting to talk to him about how he got his gear over to the US.  He couldn’t take his backpack on the plane with him (fuel, knives, food).  Everything that he was allowed to bring with him, like his food and knife, had to be in his checked luggage.  He wanted to take the least amount of chance for his luggage to get lost so he found a direct flight.  It was very stressful for him.

We met a gentleman name Pop.  He is also a flip flopper and we had the same boots.  His feet seem to be in a lot better shape than mine (he’s not missing 3 toenails)!

We also met a guy named George.  He was with a group of hammock hangers.  It’s a group of people (strangers) that are passionate about hammock camping.  They were even having a pig roast on Saturday.  We want to check out some of the gear tomorrow.

We were going to stay in the shelter but decided to set up our tent because it is supposed to rain.  We want to see how our tent holds up in a torrential downpour.

On the trail

A hearth

Love to find ruins on the trail

Great dry place to hang out