The morning hike started briskly with a long downhill stretch so that we felt sure we would do another ‘tenner’. However at about 9:30 we came across a group of hikers collected around 3 large containers. One had bananas and apples, another a collection of packets of noodles, a container of hard boiled eggs and some sweets. The third container was a rubbish bin. Trail Magic! We enjoyed the unexpected treat of fresh fruit and eggs as well as a chance to chat with some other hikers.

We have noticed a number of these huge slugs while hiking.

Today’s challenge was a 10 mile uphill climb with a long water carry. Although the weather was warm and sunny, fortunately the path was mostly in shade.

At the top of the climb on Huckleberry Mountain we were rewarded with views south to Mt Hood and north to Mt Adams.

On the way today we passed in total 48 south bound hikers. One, Clams, we recognised as having seen a number of times in the early sections of California. We chatted for a bit before continuing on to our campsite.

More huckleberries!

Another milestone achieved – today we passed 1500 miles!