09/24/06

IAT Thru Hike

John Bauer and Bill Rhodes - 2006 Ice Age Trail Thru Hike Journal

2006-06-19 / Monday

Log Entries For Day 10 Thru Day 11 - Mmmm!  Mike's pie was sure tasty!

Days 10-11 Washington County.

            After taking a much needed days rest I found myself in the forest with rain pouring down on me.  I made a decision to hightail it for the 1^st shelter of the northern unit of the Kettle Moraine.  Only about 18 miles from where I departed.  Some local’s guys around my age were hiking through my camp and I spoke to them about the trail, what I was doing, and what the I.A.P.T.F. does as a whole.  They seemed enthused.  I dried out at the shelter and slept well.  No tent. No bag.  Now on the edge of the forest I planned my next move down through West Bend and on to Slinger.  Alone again, moving at my own pace I am beginning to fall into rhythm with myself and the trail.  I am getting stronger every day.  And my feet are healing.  After hiking through the lovely West Bend and Ridge run segments I strolled through Slinger and ended my day on the doorstep of Pike Lake state park.  I waited in anticipation for Biscuit to pick me up and take me over to Mr. Mike Wollmer’s place near West Bend.  We all enjoyed a great meal prepared by Mike after I showered and washed clothes, Followed by a few brews and pie, It was an enjoyable time with those guys.  Looking forward to a good day tomorrow now that I am fresh and well fed.  Thanks to Mike and Biscuit again.  Another moral booster. 

               -John Bauer 6/18/06

Part 1

Part 2