Once again, I left later than I wanted. I stayed up late the night before, trying to catch up on my journal. The plan today was get to Caratunk….19 miles and relax the rest of the day. I smashed out the two biggest climbs in the morning, I knew the rest of the day would be a breeze. While keeping a steady pace, I thought I would be able to catch the boat shuttle to get across the Kennebic River. The Kennebic River is a dangerous fast flowing river. Many hikers have died trying to cross it. The park service supplies one guy that canoes back in forth 8 am-4 pm. I kept a steady pace to catch a ride before the guy shut down. I got to Caratunk by 2:10 pm and hit up the post office for my drop box. As I was hanging outside a guy drove up from the local resort and asked if I needed a ride there. I glanced at my watch and thought I could squeeze it in. Got to the resort and scurried thru my food drop to pack it up. I got done with the organized food cramming in my pack, I figured I might as well treat myself to a burger. With time running short, I devoured the burger and fries and caught a ride back to the Kennebic River. Thankfully the canoe worker was having a good day. I showed up 5 minutes before 4 pm, he was pulling the canoe up on shore to call it a day. I signed the safety waivers and put on a life jacket. Hopped in the canoe and we were headed off to the other side. Forgot to fill up my water bottles before I left the resort, so I had to hang out and filter my water. As I was hanging out on shore, I watched the guy paddle back to the other side by himself. It was quite impressive with that strong of a current. Smashed out the four miles to the next lean-to and called it a wrap. Made some hot coco before I jumped in the lake. An older German couple were also sleeping in the shelter. As I walked by her she said, “Oh my, YOU’RE STINKY.” I laughed and took that as a great compliment. Hopped in the lake. It was soooooo refreshing, I stayed out there longer than normal. Washed my clothes, made a small fire, and chatted with Bobcat, he was from Michigan.

Tons of rocks