Project Eveningland

6/9/2023 Friday

A drizzle arrived late morning and washed the air somewhat. Innkeeper Kevin and I discussed the latest legal news on the drive to the drop-off point, from which I resumed my hike. Just a quick nine miles today to meet my buddy Neil in Duncannon.

There were only a few miles of field and grass left. It was cooler and overcast enough for me to keep my hiking pants on for a while.

Rocksylvania begins here, or so they say. It’s rocky as shit—I can confirm. I’d guess that my mileage will be reduced by maybe 20%. Those who stride farther, faster may see a greater impact from the rocky tread.

I worked with Mom and my sister Tracy to find a place for me to stay in ten days or so. I’ll be taking a few days off to check the proofs for my book. My parents will join. I need a longer rest anyway.

The first rocky ascent carried me to a rocky ridge that carried on being rocky most of the day. But the breezes were deeply pleasant. Lots of chipmunks capering about. More rain, ever so gentle, visited just before lunch.

Mountain laurel is such an elegant plant! When the flowers begin to fall off and get more sparse, it delivers a very different look. The knotty, crooked “trunks” have a bonsai appearance. The air still smells wonderful from the blooms. I saw a few day hikers but mostly it was a quiet day. I kept my eyes down on the rocks.

I reached Duncannon late afternoon and checked into Kinda Outdoorsy, one of your rare downtown hostels. Nice setup! The owner understands hikers. There’s one of the best notes I’ve seen in a hostel. I’ll put a picture below. Neil is getting a good hostel experience for his four-day AT adventure. I plan to get his “outsider” perspective on all the crazy shit I’ve come to think of as normal.

He arrived shortly after I did and we grabbed dinner at the Doyle nearby. Then we got ice cream from a convenience store and unloaded his gear from his car. I’ve talked him into abandoning his platypus bladder in favor of plastic water bottles. And he brought me new shoes! Just in time to help protect my toes from those mean old rocks.

That hair gel I started carrying? Totally worth it. I turn heads in town with the lift and texture I’m getting. Shaggy Doug! Tres chic!