Thu Jun 15, 2017 @ 12:08

Attending #hikenovascotia summit this spring introduced me to new trails - those already well-travelled and others in-the-making - and to kindred-spirit hiking friends. Two of whom (#mindymccleave and #meganmoore) were eager to test new tents and experience a first over-nighter on the trail. I suggested we choose an entry-level hike within 3 hours of our homes, where I experienced my foray into overnight camping with @hammerhead @toesalad @reneetougas @brienne @mypictograph @celine, the Bluff Wilderness Trail which I’ve posted about before. https://wrweo.ca/wp/blufftrailmaprevised2016-10-26/. For having just met we were a very compatible three-some: stopped regularly for photos and snacks and views, shared enjoyable trail-talk, and maintained a steady hiking pace that got us into camp early enough for a dip in the lake, short trek to stream to filter water, and have supper eaten before the black flies chased us to our tents. A full moon; a symphony of peepers, loons, owls, geese - a magical night leading into the next day’s 4-hour hike back to the trailhead.

To and from the parking lot, plus the perimeter of the four trail loops and one cross-cut, we hiked about 33 KM - each carrying packs with 25-34 lb. We all agreed we’d packed along more than needed (excluding the tetra pak of red wine!) and that the trek was a unanimous success to launch into over-night hiking!