New Jersey, New Snake (Day 101)

I wakened on the church garden this morning with espresso on my thoughts. There was a restaurant simply down the road, and I left my packed bag behind in pursuit of a latte. It appeared like each hiker who stayed on the town had the identical thought, as a result of we had been all ordering espresso as quickly because the doorways opened.

I even bumped into somebody that I hadn’t seen since earlier than Trail Days. I’m at all times amazed by how the path brings individuals again collectively. You might imagine you’ll by no means see somebody once more, then at some point, spherical a nook, and there they’ll be! 

Crossing the Delaware 

After espresso and buying gas, we headed out for the day and instantly crossed the Delaware River, getting into New Jersey. The bridge was shaky and rocked as large vehicles flew by near us. But I didn’t care, I used to be simply glad to be onto the subsequent state.

First Water Snake!

Our first break of the day was at Sunfish Pond, though it appeared extra like a lake to me. The solar was shining, and at first it appeared like a pleasant spot for a swim, had that been permitted. But as soon as I noticed the water snake swimming simply off the financial institution, I used to be glad I hadn’t positioned a toe within the water. She was nonvenomous and appeared relaxed, transferring into plain sight as if posing for our cameras. But I’d nonetheless favor to not swim alongside her. 

A number of miles later, a big cairn marked the highest of Kittatinny Mountain. There had been stunning views, and it was a pleasant spot to relaxation. Apparently, you could possibly see the Pocono Mountains from up there, though I wasn’t positive the place they had been. 

Fountain of Youth 

The final main cease of the day was a number of hundred yards off-trail to the Fountain of Youth Spring. Water was pouring out of a pipe within the hill, and rumor has it that you would be able to drink it straight, although I didn’t take that likelihood. I ponder when you nonetheless get the anti-aging advantages when you filter the water. Does a Sawyer Squeeze take away magical properties together with micro organism and parasites?

Sleeping With One Eye Open 

My climbing associate and I camped at a dispersed website only a few miles previous the fountain, and I used to be confused once I heard singing and shouting close by. Turns out that Camp No-Be-Bo-Sco was just under, and summer time was in full swing. A fast Google search knowledgeable me that the camp was additionally the filming location for the unique Friday the thirteenth film. How spooky! I ponder if Mrs. Voorhees plans to actual any revenge tonight…

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