Day 80 - Ensign Cowall Shelter to Antietam Shelter

Got up and out at 8! Big doings! Kind of strange to walk the same section of trail three times (since I had done a bit extra and then come back yesterday).

Tough climb to the Devil’s Racecourse. Shades of things to come? A couple of southbounders told us about a cookout at Pen Mar Park, so we started walking quicker! Murph and the gang were already here. A woman named Hat Trick and her husband Dingle, who thru-hiked in ’97, throw this picnic every year. Burgers, salads, chips, soda, brownies… it’s an absolutely perfect day.



The park is big and well-used by families (today is Father’s Day). Taking full advantage! Murph said it was one of the best days of her life -- not just on the trail. Oh, Dave 'kidnapped' my watch from me this morning. I really miss it but will try to readjust.


 

We spent the whole afternoon at the park. One of the highlights was when Dave picked up his socks, which had been drying in the sun. It was like they had been shellacked to be put in the Museum of Natural (or Unnatural) History.

Left at 5:30. A couple of curious people stopped us on the way out to ask the usual questions. Nobody seems to understand what we’re doing! Hiked to the shelter at five miles and it looked like people were staying. But I had wanted to go farther. Then everyone changed their minds and decided to do two more miles.

Good sleep in tent.