Fox got his resupply box at Elk Lake, but Rocky Point and I were getting ours at Big Lake Youth Camp, just 36.3 miles away: another worthy goal for the day.
The scenery was also very pretty; instead of just hiking through the forest, we passed through several meadows and had some views of mountains.
The wildflowers were in full bloom and made the air smell amazingly fragrant. We crossed several creeks and went by some lakes.
In the afternoon, however, we entered the lava fields and our forward progress slowed significantly.
For nearly five miles we trudged along the pumice, watching the clouds roll in.
Then the storm let loose and within minutes it went from clouds building to a downpour! We were out on the exposed lava rocks (me without my rain jacket) and we got drenched. We tried to make a break for the woods nearby but you can’t walk too fast on lava rocks without risking a twisted ankle. When we got to the trees, they provided great cover but it was a bit too late. However, once again the storm passed quickly and the rain stopped soon enough.
The last few miles to Big Lake Youth Camp were through the woods, on a fresh bed of pine needles.
We got to the camp around 8:30 pm and immediately picked up our packages before the reception closed. We got the tour and heard there was leftover dinner in the dining hall so we headed there directly. The camp food is all vegetarian and we had delicious chili, cornbread, and salad. I hadn’t eaten anything for over ten miles and I was hungry! Food always tastes the best after hiking so far.
After eating, I took a shower, did laundry, and reorganized my food and pack. I didn’t get to sleep until nearly 11 pm. It was a long day!