The goal for today was to make some progress toward the hike. Mission accomplished, but I’m still here at home in bed. I spent a good chunk of the day gathering everything on the list and packing the pack. And now, the pack is packed, the list is checked off. The final weight? 34 lbs. 10 oz. I wore it around the house today for a while. It wasn’t bad. We’ll see what I say after eight hours of walking uphill.

The Pinnel Trail extends from Twelve Mile Summit to Eagle Summit. You could start at either end and walk to the other. I’ve read some reviews that say starting at Twelve Mile is slightly more desirable because the terrain and the view continue to improve to a great climax near Eagle Summit, even thought there is a net elevation gain going that way. That is my plan. But tomorrow, I’ll start at the other end. Tomorrow (Sunday), the plan is to drive to Eagle Summit (my eventual destination) and walk up the trail all day, camp overnight, and walk back out on Monday. This will take me about a quarter of the way in, but will feel like about half of the eventual time and distance. It also occurred to me today that since we’re close to 24 hours of daylight now, I could pitch the tent and sleep through the hot part of the day and hike through the night. It’s a possibility.