The New Trail.

I look up the trail and begin walking. Through the trees it seems the sun is fading, maybe from some clouds coming in.

'It was supposed to be a clear few days, I hope it stays that way.' I think to myself.

I continue walking through the trees making my way past the lower lake and off to the upper lake. I hope to make it 20 miles today before finding somewhere to camp for the night. After about 4 hours of hiking I've made it around 10 miles and decide it's a good time for a break. I find a nice little spot with a down tree and sit down.

In my pack I find a granola bar and have some water. I also snack on some dried meat. After finishing my snack I'm off again. In another 4 hours I will arrive a the lake where I can camp close to the beach for the night.

The last bit of the hike is feels long as the anticipation of a new view builds up. I know I must be getting close judging by the lowering sun and my clock. The trees are starting to thin out a bit up ahead and I notice the nature around me changing slightly with a new scenery.

I can see the last line of trees up ahead and pick up the pace without realizing it. As I emerge from the woods the most beautiful lake comes into view. The upper lake is much bigger but I can still see the other side. I walk to the waters edge, the beach is made up of small stones. he entire lake is surrounded by trees.

I can see on the far side a pretty big cliff that looks over the whole lake. That must be the overlook where I will be heading tomorrow. I turn and head towards the tree line looking for a good place to camp. I find a nice flat spot at the edge and set my pack down.

After pulling out my tent I set up camp and look for some wood to start a fire. It doesn't take long to find the supplies I have and get a fire going. By now I have everything ready and the sun is beginning to set.

From here I can see a smoke plume coming up from the trees across the lake on the right side. I try and look closer to see anything more but with the dimming light I can't make out anything. I wonder if I will meat them along the trail. I'm always unsure about meeting people when I am alone like this. At least I will be hiking up the left side of the lake maybe we will miss eachother.

After finishing my meal I quickly put out my fire and head into my tent after one last look over the lake. I always sleep the best in my sleeping bag under the stars with the fresh air. I think of the hike in store tomorrow along the lake as I drift off into darkness.