I started at 8:00 after leisurely breaking camp.  The first 6 miles or so were more up and down to get around Caribou mountain, and then the trail dropped into river valleys for the rest of the day.  The trail is much easier and the miles roll by, but the mosquitoes and ticks are a real nuisance.  I found 3 ticks on my right leg and one on my sock, and the mosquitoes are capable of landing and biting even when I’m moving at full speed.  I think I got the ticks while bushwhacking in the Dearborn river valley to get back on the trail, but now I’m having to constantly check myself.

Today I met Paia – a very nice guy from Czech, Salty – a girl who was also very nice, Stretch – a young guy by himself, Rangeskirt – a middle eastern guy, kind of serious but nice, and finally Sugar Rush, a young woman maybe 27 From New Jersey whom I talked with for probably 30 minutes before moving on.  All were SOBO’s.

I really ran out of gas this afternoon.  I think it’s my lack of calories and the furnace just runs out of fuel. On the positive side, this is one of the nicest campsites yet. I’m next to Welcome Creek under some trees on the edge of a beautiful meadow. I haven’t seen anyone since early this morning and have the place all to myself. I love listening to the water bubbling away as I relax inside my tent and prepare dinner.