Day 24: And then there was one…
Day 24: April 17, 2023
AZT mile 349.6 to 356.0
Hiked today: 12.4 miles / 20.0 km
AZT hiked to date: 45%
With Rob’s leg still paining, we nevertheless set out, first across the lake with views from the bridge across to the Roosevelt Lake dam wall. Then, it was on up further steep climbs through fields of glorious wildflowers.
Each time we stopped, we reassessed the state of the leg. At the 6 mile point, Rob finally conceded that this was getting worse, not better, and reluctantly agreed that the only sensible thing to do was to opt out now. Especially as we had 2 days ahead to the next exit point involving 7000′ of ascents and almost the same in descents.
Retracing our steps allowed us to enjoy views of Roosevelt Lake and dam from the other direction. The steep climb became a steep descent as we slowly made our way down to the road. There, we tried without success to hitch a ride, standing for over an hour in the midday sun. Rob found the contact details of someone who could give us a ride and made arrangements for him to collect us from back at the marina.
We consoled ourselves with a nice lunch at the restaurant, and the helpful waitress provided an ice pack for Robert’s leg. Dave arrived right on time and took us to the town of Payson, where we had booked a couple of nights in a motel.
It seems like this is the finish of the AZT for us now. Although we haven’t made it to the Grand Canyon, we have completed 45 per cent of the trail and seen the desert at its best with an unusually spectacular wild flower bloom.
We are now resting up trying to come up with a plan B.
5 thoughts on “Day 24: And then there was one…”
At least your have enough for a lovely photobook!
💕 and 🤗 🤗
Bummer. Was scared this was coming. Really sorry for you. Trust that plan B will sit well with you and be a good thing.
I knew that this was a tough trail when we started, but I never thought that it would take three of us out. Not three seasoned long distance hikers. I guess it shows who was the toughest of the four of us. I hope your leg is okay and heals soon. Looking forward to seeing the two of you in Seattle.
Hello Ros and Rob, Big disappointment you cant continue but when you gotta stop, you gotta stop. Take care of those bodies for the next future adventure.
You certainly got some spectacular country to experience and the wildflowers are mind boggling.
I cant believe the pace you kept. From Day 20 I thought I was in the middle of an exciting Wild West Motion Picture.
Rest up and enjoy those wonderful moments and the great American hospitality, Best wishes, Kris
Wow, 45% further than me! I can’t wait to see this photo book, so many stunning wildflowers. Take care x