AZT Day 18. The Trail Provides. October 21, 2016

24.8 miles
Mile 233.6  to Double Springs Campground (closed), mile 258.4
Total miles: 219.1

A few days ago another AZT hiker ahead of me messaged me that I could have the water he cached. He gave me detailed descriptions of where to find it. I got to the first place and found a jug. But it said it was for Sequoia.  I had no idea if this was the guy’s trail name. So I sat down and messaged him. While I was waiting for a reply Micah came walking up to his truck. We talked about the AZT and then he said he would go to his trailer just down the road and get me a gallon of water.

By the time he got back I had heard back from Sequoia. That was him and the water was mine. Micah brought me back a can of sockeye salmon and some crackers. It looked delicious. Neither of us had a can opener but I took it anyway. I knew I would get it opened somehow.

As I walked I thought about my options. My little Swiss army knife is way too little and I’m sure I would cut myself trying. Then I thought about my tent stakes and a rock. I’m pretty sure I could get it open with that.

At 11:30 I sat down on the side of the dirt road I had been walking on. I had seen no vehicles and didn’t expect to. I rinsed off two different types of tent stakes. I set the can and stakes down and got out my camera. Just before I snapped the photo I heard a truck coming my way. I quickly moved my stuff completely off the road. 2 men had been out cutting firewood and their truck was full. I asked them if they had a can opener. The driver got out and looked at the can. Then he went back into the truck and returned with a knife. He said “I’m Mexican” and pointed to the knife and can. He doesn’t need a can opener. He gets one of the ultralight life principles…. multi use!

The salmon and crackers were delicious.

When I got close to Mormon Lake I started salivating at the idea of a steak.  I just had to get there. And I did. The steak, potato and beer at the bar was perfect. The shower was pretty divine also.