July 17 - Wildcat Shelter (Day 120 – milepoint 1348.6)

Erin and her father, Robert, showed up this morning and offered me a ride to the trailhead. We also picked up Boji at the Days inn on the way. Very gracious folks. Not a bad way to start the day.

Big climb out of Vernon on yet another ridiculously hot, humid day. Siesta at Wawayanda State Park and about a 2-1/2 hour nap, thank you. The next nine miles were brutal with no water and little shade.

I came upon a road 3 miles before the shelter, very dehydrated and somewhat delirious. Followed the sound of barking dogs into a small neighborhood searching for outside water spigots. Nothing. Finally, a man came out of his house to quiet his dog. I seized the opportunity and asked for some water. He invited me inside and I enjoyed a nice conversation with him and his wife between sloppy gulps, water dripping from my now bushy beard. They seemed amused. I was thankful and the Mrs. handed me a peach and a plum for the road.

Made it to the shelter without further incident and have been drinking since I arrived. Joined by Merry Star, Boji, Meant2B, and Harmony.

Aquaholic