Early to rise at Percy Tent Site to gauge whether or not I wanted to head to the north peak for sunrise. I made some freeze dried eggs for breakfast and when I could finally start to see daylight, it was overcast. I ate breakfast, packed up camp and headed out to South Pond for a two day stretch on the Kilkenny ridge.
I passed by Victor Head and made a note to head up there when I come back through Nobo next year. As I crossed rt 110, and started the road walk down South Pond Road, I started thinking about the Devil’s Hopyard. I knew it was going to be a scramble, but how tough was it going to be with a 24lb pack? Actually, it wasn’t too bad. It was so hot out and the Hopyard had its own microclimate. It was incredibly refreshing, cool, mossy, and enchanting. I made my way to the end where a huge rock wall towered above me. I took a few videos and pictures for the road and headed back out to the main trail.
It was supposed to start raining again this afternoon, so I had to book it to Cabot Cabin. Luckily, I made it not to long after it started to sprinkle. I went in, put my pack down, claimed my bunk even though I was the only one there, then went out to take pictures and a few videos.
Hunkered down in the cabin for the evening, I wondered how I’d get more water. The water source was dry. Even though it was raining, it wasn’t enough to replenish. As I was sitting at the table pondering my dilemma, I looked over and saw an older gentleman walking around the cabin.
He walked inside and we exchanged hello. He saw my pack sitting next to me and asked if I were staying the night. I looked at his small pack and realized he was not staying the night. I immediately became nervous for him as it was already after 6pm and the skies were dark with an impending downpour. He sat down, pulled out a bowl of fresh fruit, offered me some and we chatted about our kids, fishing, and hiking. His name was John and he was on his 46th 4k. His son was a climbing guide in Colorado. I mentioned to him that the water source was dry, so if he needed water, he’d be out of luck. He said he had plenty and offered me two of his bottles (he had brought 5 with him!) The trail provides and it was the best trail magic. He packed his bag, we said goodbye and off down the mountain he went.
I settled in for the night, caught a friend hiking on live, watched a couple of quick videos to decompress after a very long day climbing up and reveled at the thought of a mostly downhill day tomorrow.
