Nature, to be commanded, must be obeyed.
~Francis Bacon
Paynes Lake to Etna Summit
6 miles
My excitement for the day was smashed when I woke up to pouring rain that didn’t stop…ever. Magic did happen however. A couple miles before the Etna Summit where I was going to attempt to get a ride into Etna 14 miles northeast, Ben and Kate came strolling up. They are the first northbound hikers I have seen AND they have come all the way from Mexico. These hikers are doing 30 to 35 miles per day!!! I hiked to the summit with them and they decided to go into Etna also to get dry and warm. Halleluia!!!! We waited for a ride for just a few minutes and was picked up by gentlemen that were out panning for gold. So great.
I am staying at Alderbrook Manor that is a beautiful bed and breakfast. They have a special building just for hikers with everything hikers need. My laundry is done, I have checked in with my family, I am dryed off, warm, have just finished eating a large spinich salad and a smoothie at the coffee house, and am now using the computer at the public library. BTW: I am so jealous of their library. It is filled with friendly, helpful librarians and has the love of learning atmosphere. Now that is hard to beat. I am thankful.
Tomorrow the weather forecast is not good, but is clearing up on Wednesday. I have decisions to make.
Etna sounds wonderful! Glad you are dry now.
Etna is the best. Especially the smoothy! Hope you are getting in some trail time with your super lightweight system.