8/31/02

8:00 pm Cold River lean-to #:  A mile shy of Duck hole.  Not the greatest spot for a lean-to and its in rough shape but I heard duck hole was often crowded, so this will do.  Today was as advertised.  Long.  15 miles in all.  Some of it fairly pleasant.  I did the first 5 miles in an hour and a half.  Pulled lunch at Big Eddy and had one f the most enjoyable swims of the trip.  Gorgeous water and warm sun as I floated from rock to rock in this natural pool, at one point I was so relaxed I almost fell asleep as I drifted by the little water falls.  I floated back to my pack and had a good meal and nap on a large rock.  This is really what I love most about hiking.  These little enjoyable down times, just soaking in the woods.

At Ouluska Pass lean-to  I met a wonderful group of hikers.  I sat down in their camp and had some food and re-wrapped my feet.  We were having some good conversation and laughs.  An older woman and gentleman (older in years, not spirit) completed the NP a few years before so we chatted about our experiences.  They invited to make room in their camp for me to stay the night but I really had to beat out another 4.5 miles - so after one last snack I hit the trail again and ended up here.  Tomorrow if all goes as planned I will reach the trails end - I am anxious.  I bet it will be a relief, but I am sure I will also be a bit  sad.  I am looking forward to being able to say I did it.