I've been wanting to do this route for a while, and finally had a great opportunity to do it. I figured it wasn't the best timing to do it with the heat and the bugs, but I had a pickup on the other side of the trail. So I decided not to put this off any longer and just get it done. I started at 5:55 AM. I wanted to take advantage of cooler morning temps. I was covered in clothing from head to toe, ready for the bugs. Much to my surprise, I found out early on that the bugs were nowhere to be found on this day. Bonus! The heat was here though and I found myself drenched in no time. I carried a 2 liter bladder full of electrolyte drink and also had a water filter. My plan was to drink the bladder throughout and camel up when I came to streams or lakes. I carried some food also, but only ended up eating about half of it.
Things seemed to go well early on. I was moving well and sticking to the plan. The eastern part of the route is more traveled and better marked. I knew it would only get harder as I went on. I did my very best to stay on the trail. It's really tough though! I found myself often looking for a blaze or flagging tape and saw nothing. All part of this adventure though. I ran when I could but it was few and far between. The trail is just very technical. So I just kept moving forward the best I could. I did find myself getting dehydrated later on. I was also getting closer to finishing. The last couple miles are a non technical slight downhill. What a treat. I took full advantage and picked up the pace. Getting to the bridge by Fort LaCloche was a great feeling. I had enough of the heat for one day. I think it felt like 37 C.
I was able to go for a swim in a near by lake after finishing which felt great. Thank you Chantal for throwing this idea out there and for dropping me off and picking me up on the other side. It was now time to get a Froster and drive home.