My socks, shoes, and gaiters were frozen solid this morning. I knew it would be a cold night, but I wasn’t expecting freezing temperatures to last long enough to solidify everything that was wet. I warmed my socks with my breath, slipped them on, then jammed my feet into frozen shoes.
| 🗓️ Date | April 27th |
| ⇢ Mileage | 23.9 |
| 📍 Trip Mileage | 261.6 |
| ⛅️ Weather | Below freezing morning, 75°F and calm at midday |
| 🏞️ Trail Conditions | River valley, plenty of crossings, trail eventually evolved at the end of the day |
The valley again showed its wonders. The Gila is reminiscent of combined images of Zion, Grand Canyon, and Pinnacles National Parks. The forceful river at its heart might not be immense, but its roaring nature cut the walls of this valley from tough igneous rock.
I caught my first western diamondback today. I had been anticipating one in the desert, and I’m happy I caught a glimpse of this beauty.
The Gila may have scarred up my legs and tweaked a few muscles, but it toughened spirit and renewed my soul. I’ll miss her deep valleys and unfaltering flow. I must continue north.
I’m camped at Snow Lake campground and excited to hopefully have less wet feet in the coming days of hiking. But, I will dearly miss the Gila and the depth of her gorgeous rage.
Signing off,
Zeppelin
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