Morning Dampness – The Usual Suspect
Is it even worth mentioning that everything was soaked again this morning? And it hadn’t even rained! But today, rain is on the forecast, so I can’t even imagine what’s coming. I tried to cinch down my tent even more to minimize condensation, but I’m increasingly feeling like this single-wall tent just isn’t for me. 😟
Other hikers supposedly don’t have these issues – at least not with single-wall tents. I was even woken up by a big, cold drop that landed right on my face. You really don’t want that! I’m wondering what I’m doing wrong – am I too bundled up in my quilt, exhaling a lot of warm air that’s condensing? Or am I sleeping too “closed off”? I’ve got half the tent opening unzipped, but that won’t be an option today with the rain.
Trail Solidarity
Last night, I was chatting with Charlie, another hiker, about whether he had microspikes. He said he did, and asked if I had any. I said no. And this morning, he brought me a pair from the hiker box! I love this feeling of trail solidarity.
Now, here’s a quick tally of what I’ve gained and “sacrificed” on the trail:
Gained:
- Microspikes from the hiker box
- Gossamer Gear sleeping pad
- Lighter and CNOC bottle (2 liters) from Eric
Lost (Consumed):
- Mashed potatoes
- Instant noodles
- Over a kilo of peanut butter
- Half a pack of oatmeal
Hopefully, I’m ready for tonight. But with my lack of experience, I’m not entirely sure. 😟
Seven Hours of Rain
It didn’t take long for the rain to start. It lasted for over seven hours, and the temperature dropped to around 6 degrees Celsius. The rain was coming from all directions, and there was no escaping it. I tried to shelter in a pavilion, but I was freezing. My boots are completely soaked. I didn’t really want to get into my tent because I was afraid I’d bring even more water in and the humidity would be unbearable.
Still, I had my first American beer – though it felt a bit symbolic in the cold.
Cold, Hot Food, and Relief
After 6 PM, I couldn’t take it anymore and headed into my tent. I was done with it all. When I finally got into my sleeping bag, I looked at the clock and realized it wasn’t that late. The rain had stopped by then, so I decided to head to the store and restaurant to warm up with some movement, a hot meal, and an indoor environment.
I ordered a massive portion of food, of which I managed to eat about 25%. I’m curious to see what that spicy sauce does to me. The rain is supposed to return tonight, so it’s time for a clean-up, zip into the sleeping bag, and sleep.
Daily Summary
- Miles Today: 0.
- Total PCT Distance: Still 2,626 miles to go.
- Highlight of the Day: First beer in the USA, endless rain, and getting through the day despite the cold and dampness.
