Day 2

Not a bad night, I was tired enough to sleep through aching feet and shoulders! It got cool and I put my puffy on but was fine then. I use a quilt instead of a sleeping bag (lighter and more versatile) and you can use straps to close it when it’s cold. But I had left those in my toiletry bag which I had already put in my Ursack (bear proof food bag) and hung up so I did without them. I have always found that when I get cold I get extra warmth rolling onto my tummy!

No noises at all during the night, just some planes! And hummingbirds!!! I awoke when it was already light, packed up and hit the trail. No coffee … I figured that would be the reward for making it to the outfitters cabin!

Shane, a super helpful outfitter out of Creston who knows the area well and has helped me plan my route, had offered I could stay at their cabin. The promise of a roof (saves setting up the tent), a table and even coffee (!!!) is just too tempting, even though it makes the 3rd day rather long!

He said it would be 9km on the horse trail from the park boundary to the cabin. I’m glad I didn’t attempt this yesterday since it was slow going! The trail was faint early on, with swamps, blow downs and big overgrowth making it a frustrating path. At least it was all downhill! And the thought of coffee as a reward kept me going ☕️ I talked a lot to Keyla and myself to announce myself to any wildlife (yesterday pretty much no bear poop, today much more).

Eventually I got down to the Kianuko Creek drainage but even then it wasn’t completely obvious where to turn, and I had to text Shane for clarification! Thank you for all your help Shane!

Now I’m at the cabin enjoying my coffee! I decided to rather have more time today to rest and dry gear, and a longer trip out tomorrow to meet Kevin near Kitchener.

One note: While I so very much appreciate all the support and messages, please do not respond to the Garmin checkins (the preset text or email saying I’m at my campspot or starting hiking in the morning). My InReach plan only comes with 10 custom messages per month (which replies count towards). Anything to my Gmail and regular phone number is great and I look forward to reading notes from you when I have reception!!! ❤️❤️❤️

About 11km hiked.