The Hike

So then, we went into the Gila Wilderness. We saw the cliff dwellings, which you are allowed to walk through which is pretty cool. Of course the real fun was packing into the Gila. We hiked in through the middle fork route. It was 6 miles from the trail head to the mouth of little bear canyon, which is where we made camp for the night. It was really cool, at points the trail was over grown. There were about 36 river crossings for those 6 miles. The river was cool, not overly cold and the crossings ranged from a few inches to about knee deep. So we ended up hiking with wet soggy boots. It wasn't too bad, it was warm so the cold water didn't feel too bad.

At the mouth of Little Bear Canyon we set up our camp, it started to sprinkle and there was some thunder. After a short break the weather let up a bit and we set out to the hot springs. It was 2 miles out and it took a bit and 14 more river crossings but we got to Jordan Hot Springs. It was more like warm bath water than a hot spring, but it was still nice to relax a bit. But you can't dunk your head, cause there are ameobas that will cause menegitis. So after a bit of a soak we headed home and made it back to the camp. Since we had a bit of a fire ring we had a bit of a fire and had dinner.

The next morning we got up had breakfast and set out through the canyon. It was 4 miles back to the road and then 3/4 of a mile back to were we parked. We got back to the car and visited a few more people that were camping in the area. Then we headed home and just made it in time for mass.

So then for starters we were testing out the new water filter. We got an MSR Miniworks and it is great. It takes a bit of effort to pump and I think that about a gallon is all that I want to pump at one given time. But the water tastes really great. So I would definetly recommend it to anyone that is looking for a filter. Also I was trying out backpacking in a kilt. It really worked out well. It was nice, so again, if you haven't tried it out, give it a shot. Lastly Stella tryed out her new therma-rest. She really enjoyed it, said it was comfy, so all around things were good.

Back

ok, i survived the Gila. the route we took in had 50 river crossings. I'll see about putting up some pics. And since i'm tired i'll post more on it later.

Tomorrow

So then...tomorrow my next packing trip is tomorrow. I will be trying out the new water filter. Also....wait for it...wait for it...will try out backpacking in a kilt! prepare to be amazed! More to come.