Big Butt and Blackberry Fields (Day 31)

I left camp at 8:15am this morning, a slight improvement from yesterday. It was cold though, so I was definitely motivated to hit the road. After a short climb, the trail opened up into a field filled with what I think are wild blackberries. I always enjoy getting out of the green tunnel, even if it’s just for a little while. It’s a nice change of scenery.

big butt

Early in the day we arrived at Big Butt Peak, which is supposed to be a rock outcrop with views. Unfortunately, I seemed to have missed any side trail that would take you there, because I was heading down the mountain before I realized I had passed it. I sometimes feel discouraged when I miss certain views or am too tired to take a side trail to an overlook. But I try to remind myself that the road is long and there are many opportunities to see interesting things.

Easy, Easy, Difficult

In the first half of the day, I felt like we were floating. The terrain was quite easy, with more downhill than uphill. Once we crossed Rector Laurel Road, the trail again led into a field. From there, the next 6 miles or so to Hogback Ridge Shelter saw a big elevation gain. I think I prefer the climbs to be concentrated at the beginning of the day, when I have the most energy. But unfortunately the mountains did not consult me ​​while they were forming.

More long walks

Hogback Ridge is a good place to camp, although the water source is about a 15-minute round trip from the shelter. I think I’ve decided that filtering water is my least favorite camping task. It’s funny because I thought I would do less housework when I left the house. But in reality, you do morning and evening routines that are just as extensive in the woods. I close the night with another tasty backpacker meal. It can be hit or miss, but I’ve had good luck since my last restock – little pleasures.

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