DAY ONE (Continued)
 

 


The hike begins

And so my 13 day adventure begins.  Little did I know, standing under this sign, that the next 2 weeks would bring me physical pain, beauty, experiences, challenges and peace.  The Northville Placid would prove to be incredibly rewarding, more so than I ever dreamed - it would also prove to be physically and mentally demanding.  This was no easy stroll through the woods, and I learned quickly that there is a world of difference between the occasional weekend hike and a distance trek.

 

8/20/02

3:10 pm - Rock Lake junction - 1st break of the trip:  Took a seat next to the trail sign for Rock Lake and grabbed a quick breather.  Saw an A-10 fighter jet fly overtop and heard at least 2 others, not exactly the wildlife I expected to encounter on the hike.  Must be a base nearby.  My feet are a bit uncomfortable - Bugs not too bad.  Nice day, 2 1/2 to Silver lake

6:04 pm - Silver Lake:  The lean-to was occupied by a couple deep into a chess game, they were not overly welcoming and it looked as if they wanted some 'together time' - so I obliged.  I set my tent right off of the trail by the lake.  It is quiet and I don't intend to do any high impact camping so I am not worried about my proximity to the water.  I immediately took off my boots as my poor feet are aching.  Left one has blistered already and right outer arch is swollen and tender.  Hard to tell if my boots are old... or just my feet.  Took a swim in Silver Lake.  Very inviting, warm, clear.  Quit beautiful.  4 hrs of painful hiking for 15 minutes of blissful swimming.  Hmm, yeah it was worth it, worth every minute.  The lake was about 5 feet deep at the deepest section I waded too.  Very peaceful.  I want to nap right now but know I shouldn't miss dinner.

 

Silver Lake Photographs
(Click on a thumbnail to view a larger picture)

Silver Lake Sunset Mist Rising off the morning lake Another shot of the mist Two of my close friends take a sun bath