Day 12

Weather:
It rained all day.

Today's Hike:
Beech Gap to Big Spring Shelter - 10.0 miles

Today was our first day of hiking in the rain; light rain but constant. My rain gear held up well. It's was hot though; I need to wear fewer layers underneath so I don't sweat so much.

The hike itself was easy until we reached Bear Gap. Then I rock scrambled up Albert Mountain. We met up with the Tag Team (Tagless & Tag-Along) about halfway and we stuck together to the shelter. Right now we're all sitting around in the shelter talking about food, weather, and the local wildlife. There's been a bear reported in the area that has taken peoples packs and "shows no fear of humans." We've all been on the lookout. Lefty says he heard the coyotes at standing Indian last night and Cindi has been hearing the Screech Owls.

Due to the rain, Cindi and I are both going to brave the shelter tonight. Lefty is giving us some pointers on how to deal with the permanent residents (the mice). I want to put the tent up in the shelter to block the wind......but I'm getting some strong objections from my shelter mates so I'll refrain. Tomorrow's going to be a tough day; 12.8 miles to the shelter. Hope I sleep well.