Today was the day -- the dreaded roller coaster. Two people had told us it wasn’t that bad and “don’t believe the hype.” Actually, three. But, luckily, I retained my skeptical nature. It was that bad.
I actually found it to be a challenge, though, and looked upon these up-and-down-and-up miles as the last big hurdle to overcome in reaching the 1,000 mile mark. It was disgustingly hot, the kind of heat that makes you look like you just got out of the shower -- without any of the clean scent or feeling of refreshment.
Stopped counting the hills after 11 -- but I think there were 14 in all. Got to the Bears Den Hostel around noon. Really nice place, and they let us use the facilities even though we weren’t staying there. Hung out for three hours, dreading the return to the roller coaster in the heat.
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| Blur and Longshanks, with 1,164.7 miles to go |
After a couple more climbs, we came to an open area on some big rocks. Smittee and Dave decided to take a break. I didn’t really feel the need for one, but took off my pack and found a perfect lying spot on a rock with a nice cradle for my head. It was the ideal temperature, with a light breeze blowing. I could have stayed there all night. But onward we went.
Walked for quite a while, and we weren’t sure exactly where we were. Thumper actually way underestimated our mileage. Came to the hostel within a few minutes, much to our surprise. So we decided to go the three extra miles to the next shelter, as was our original plan.
Got there at 7:30. Just enough time to cook dinner and get ready for bed. Dave and I decided to set up camp on the deck and hope for clear skies. Lots of bugs enjoyed not having to sneak inside a tent for a meal.
Used my new sleeping bag (Dave called the company since his ripped apart, and they sent out a new one). Was excited in the morning -- lots to look forward to.
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