I missed the Ice Cream Chicken? That clucks
Started up from Appalachia a bit after 4:30. Had a quiet climb up to the hut where I gave the croo a warning of the impending onslaught. I refilled my water (3 liters sucked down already), had a snack and lathered on the sunscreen. I met up with Jay and Giggy on Adams. Hiked with (behind
) them between there an Jeff. We crossed paths with Sherpa John and Hans. We all took a short break at the summit of Jeff and shared some of Mtnmama's 7 Layer Bars (Hey Giggy next time I'll bring something without nuts
).
After leaving Jeff I was soon alone as the others dissappeared into the distance. It was still early and I had already been above treeline for well over an hour. Climbing out of the col towards Clay I realized that it would be a hot day even on the high peaks. I met a Peak Bagger bearing Snickers. Thanks!
Just before the climb up Washington I was greeted by Mtnmagic, SilentCal and SonicBoom. They were passing out water. Thanks for carrying those heavy packs for us
I took a vitamin water and downed it like I hadn't drank all day. Skiguy came by with three boxes of Alligator Eggs from the Double D Lounge. This was not a typical hike. We were joined by 4000er, Gojeb and another hiker whose name escapes me (and who hiked with me from there most of the way to the summit). On the way up I was passed by Chomp. I guess he had to pass just about everybody at some point.
I approached the rail crossing in time to be within 50ft of the train. Perfect opportunity
except that several small children were in the immediate area
Some other time.
The summit was like a small city. People everywhere. Got some quizzical looks as I stretched in the corner of the cafeteria. I reloaded on fluids, had a snack, treated a blister, and got ready to head out. Abster and the gang were having lunch, so I stopped to chat briefly. They all looked pretty chipper for all the miles they had behind them.
Up to this point I felt very good. As I descended towards Lakes I started to run out of steam. My feet were sore and my legs started to lose their normal spring. I decided to bail at Ammo. I was concerned about being fatigued and making a careless mistake. At the junction of the Westside Trail I met Bubba and Daxs.
Outside the hut I was resting on a bench preparing for the last three miles of my day. Hikeramiga and Hikerfast came around the corner from the Ammo. Hikerfast gave me some Fillet Mignon. I'm serious!!! This guy knows how to live on the trail.
I limped down Ammo sitting and sliding in places I normally would just walk. When I reached the Gem Pool I took off the boots and soaked my feet. Then I soaked them some more. My body was spent, but the smile was there to stay. Mtnmagic and SonicBoom caught me shortly thereafeter and we hiked out together.
