A Little Further Away – Fox’s AT Thru Hike – Day 18

Spence’s departure has many ups and downs, ups and downs. I tried to keep moving.

Arriving at Double Springs Gap around 2pm, I was gassed. After 17.8 yesterday and 13.5 at Double Springs, I was definitely hurting. I settled down to eat potatoes and tuna, quite determined to call it a day. Unable to imagine the climb to Kuwohi, I texted the foxes and told them I didn’t think I had another climb in me today.

spring is emerging

Five minutes later Jerz arrived. The summary is as follows: Jerz pointed out that today we do the climb in the sun or tomorrow in the rain. An incredibly compelling argument. I ate my potatoes, delved into pain management, and started chasing Jerz. He even convinced me to climb the Kuwohi tower.

The view from Kuwohi Tower was worth the effort. Boosting and developing my ability to walk faster will also pay dividends. We thought Mount Collins Shelter would be less populated, but we were wrong. People slept on the floor and under the eaves.

Finally, a serious question: does anyone know why an outhouse that can only be reached for double-digit miles over rough terrain would have grab bars? I’m sure there are reasons I haven’t considered.

Does anyone know how they would be used in a place that wheelchairs can’t reach?

• Breakfast: oatmeal
• Lunch: instant potatoes, tuna in foil.
• Dinner: oatmeal
• Appetizers: granola, clif bar, fig bar, jerky, figs
• Known today: Fancypants, Hillbilly
• Days without ramen bomb: 18

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