Day 7: Blue Blazes and Blister Tape
I awoke to a crisp, misty morning atop Rocky Mountain, a stark reminder of my questionable life choices. The world outside my sleeping bag felt like a lawless place, and I was grateful for the warmth and comfort it provided.
As I sipped my Mountain House scrambled eggs, I felt a renewed sense of purpose. The hike down to Indian Grave Gap was surprisingly pleasant, and I stumbled upon a couple who shared a fascinating story. Their husband recounted his attempt of the Appalachian Trail with his brother 40 years ago, and they called it quits right at this very spot. This realization gave me a sense of accomplishment, knowing I was outperforming hikers from the 1980s.
My confidence boosted, I made a bold decision: my first blue blaze. The trail led me to Tray Mountain Road, and I opted for the gravel road ascent instead of the dense forest path. This choice proved to be a refreshing experience, almost like a welcome change from the treadmill to the outdoors. I'm open to evolving my opinion on road walking as the journey progresses, but for now, it was a delightful surprise.
The climb to Tray Mountain was a challenging test of my endurance, but the summit view was worth every step. I envisioned enjoying the scenery with a snack, but the buzzing insects had other plans. I quickly retreated to Tray Mountain Shelter, where I discovered the toll my hiking had taken on my feet. Blisters between my toes, a gnarly heel blister, and hot spots on my feet greeted me. Despite the discomfort, I found a roll of Leukotape and meticulously wrapped my feet, transforming them into a makeshift mummified state.
Trail survival, it seemed, was not glamorous. I made a note in the shelter logbook, declaring Tray Mountain as my personal conquest, albeit with a mild censorship for the Scouts who had signed before me. My original plan to meet fellow hikers at Deep Gap Shelter was abandoned as my mummified feet slowed my progress. I stopped at Addis Gap instead, setting up camp on a slight incline, a luxurious camping experience.
The water collection turned into an unexpected expedition down an old logging road, providing an opportunity to soak my blistered feet once more. Despite my fatigue, Mountain House Buffalo Mac & Cheese became my dinner savior. I ate, rested, and passed out, another day successfully completed.
Despite the blisters, blue blazes, and necessary mileage adjustments, I couldn't fathom being anywhere else. The journey was a testament to my resilience and determination, and I looked forward to the challenges and rewards that lay ahead.
