Last night, we had the shortest but most intense thunderstorm on trail so far. Loud bangs echoed throughout the valley for 30 or so minutes after lightning struck right by us. Large rain drops slapped our tent and kicked up dirt around us. We slept okay but not great.

After getting up, we rolled into the gas station called ‘Kracker Barrel’ not to be confused by the chain restaurant. We wish it was. The place wasn’t great but for a gas station, they catered well to hikers. We picked up our boxes, showered, did laundry, ate some processed junk food, charged our things, and lounged. We met back up with Ant Man, Frog, Skywalker, and a couple others as we traded stories and mentioned our plans for the rest of the trail.

After our share of beer and food, we packed up and headed back out on trail. Just a couple miles in. Tomorrow, we’ll go for big mileage on our way up to our next stop - Steven’s Pass. With full packs, we’re moving slower but at least we’re well fed.

Happy trails…