Since we had about 100 miles and 4 days to reach our next resupply, we prepared for another long 24 mile day.
Our map showed a shortcut that saved about a mile. We decided we would just take the real trail because the notes said the shortcut could be a difficult bushwhack. As we approached where we thought the junction would be, we found out that we were actually on the shortcut. Not sure how we missed the junction. The GPS said we were about halfway through it so we decided to keep going. It was mostly trail until it just ended and we had to do some swampy bushwhacking to get back to the trail.
As we were studying the map, we realized that a major alternate was coming up. The notes on the map said it was recommended because it was more scenic and straightforward than the actual CDT. Judging by how we felt at the end on yesterday's long day, we decided the alternate was the way to go. This would shave 15 miles off our route to the next resupply. This meant that we wouldn't have to do a 24+ mile day today.
A good portion of the trail was seriously messed up from horses going through the trail while it was muddy. It made walking very difficult on the uneven terrain.
We went through another burn area, but this one was maintained recently. We are now in the Bob Marshal wilderness, so that is why the trails are so nice.
We met a section hiker going north. I mention this because we have seen maybe 3 other people this entire trip hiking the opposite direction of us. He said he has seen a steady stream of southbound CDT hikers every day of his 8 day trip so far. He also said that the alternate was amazing and recommended it to us.
We got to camp by a large stream and Andy and I decided to jump in. It was freezing so Heather decided not to go in.
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