July 21 - An Unexpected Ending

July 21 - An Unexpected Ending

Last night I camped in between lava fields. Fortunately there was a small break between stretches of rough lava where a grove of trees had escaped the destruction. It was a perfect spot where the morning sun would wake and warm me. So I slept in.

The trail through the lava was miles long and ended none too soon in a burned area. The lava was torture compared to the relatively sandy soil in the burn zone. The fact that the trail then went uphill for several miles was nothing compared to the torture of walking on huge cinders. 

I took my time and arrived at the Big Lake Youth Camp at 2:30, just as they were shutting the kitchen down for the weekend. Of course they accommodated me and prepared a quick meal of pizza, watermelon, and grapes. It was delicious. After lunch I turned my stinky clothes into the laundry where I would pick the up two hours later smelling fresh and new. I took a shower after dropping off my clothes. The camp even supplied a fresh towel. This place rocks!!! After gathering my resupply box I set out. 

I had heard that a trail angel was set up down the road providing burgers, drinks, and root bee floats tonPCT hikers. Mike had set up a cook station, a big tent to keep people dry, and several chairs. Sun, Jill, Sarah, and I showed up just at happy hour. Since there were only four of us he invited us into his motor home to escape the mosquitoes. Mile shared a few stories, as did we, but every few minutes his phone chimed. Unfortunately his mother-in-law had taken seriously ill and he was being kept appraised of the situation. With grave consequences possible Mike would have to leave in the morning. We all agreed to stay and help him break down. It was quite an unexpected ending to the day. 

My Jefferson 

Ferns along the trail. 

Lunch courtesy of the youth camp. Yum!

Hikingsolo (aka Allen)