Day 27: A 20 mile day!

We decided as a group, Gravy included, that it would be best to arrive in Echo Lake by morning. The thought of a huge breakfast and a huge lunch all in one day conjured thoughts of indescribable bliss. In order to accomplish this task it was necessary to walk at least 20 miles for the next 3 days. As an inexperienced long distance hiker the thought of walking 20 miles is a bit daunting, but to be honest there are two important things right now. The first is food and the second is mileage.

Off we went. The vistas in this part of the country have changed a great deal. The sky seems a bit bluer and the wildflowers span the rainbow. The lakes are also more plentiful and it is now a tradition to jump in every single one we pass. ASA lake was the first up. It was actually a bit muddy and more like a pond, but it took away the sweat from the morning and provided a perfect reason to snooze in the sun. Gravy hadn't caught up to us yet so we took a very relaxed stride and stopped yet again at the next lake for another nap. At Highway 4 we crossed paths with Gravy and arrived at camp by 6:30.

Home tonight is incredible. Our tent is perched on a rock overlooking Upper Kinney Lake. I almost feel as if I'm in a private country club. The lake spills off the side into another lake below just like an infinity pool. The sky frames the view with purples and deep blues making it almost too perfect.

If only my camera could really capture the true beauty of this place. Perhaps it is a good thing that only hikers can reach this spot. If too many people were to realize the perfection of this spot it might be lost and destroyed within minutes.