The overnight downpour turned out to be just a smidge. I think the worst of the weather is yet to come. Anyway, I ran out of the campground this morning with one goal in mind: hike 12 miles to Brushy Mountain Outpost before they closed at 2 pm. I needed some snacks and saw on FarOut that they might have hot food too.
Encounter with bears
Yesterday another hiker saw a black bear not far from me on the trail. In fact, we were so close that I literally heard her yell «bear.» When I got there, it had already disappeared. I told him I hoped to see one, and a day later my wish was granted. While walking today, I heard a disturbance right next to the trail. I was walking along the ridge of a valley and, down the hill, there was a little bear. It wasn’t a puppy, but it definitely seemed to be younger. Although he didn’t notice me, I gave a small cry of surprise. He quickly galloped towards the valley and I almost lost sight of him. I took a photo; he is the little black spot in the middle.
Brushed Mountain Burger
By the time I reached Brushy Mountain Outpost, the bear adrenaline had worn off and hunger had taken over. Inside, I was able to pick up some replenishment items and ordered a burger with raspberry ice cream on the side. It was definitely worth a quick hike. A group of hikers sat inside, eating and charging their devices. As he did so, the sky opened and the downpour began. The rain was torrential and I postponed leaving as long as possible.
one early night
Most hikers at the outpost opted to be picked up at a hostel or motel in town. Another hiker and I finally made it down the trail and got soaked along the way. I chose to end my day early so I could sleep in a shelter and protect myself from the rain. Only 21 kilometers today, but there are only three of us in this camp. I feel like the king of the castle.
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