8/24/03 Tumble tried to unbend the stove and canister, but couldn't. So, we sat and waited for another hiker to appear. We talked about the trail and agreed that we don't mind a trail that is difficult due to its character or weather, but do mind a trail made more difficult by neglect or poor maintenance. Our particular beefs are branch trimmings that extend into the edges of the trail and catch on our packs or poke us in the arms or legs -- or for Tumble in the face. Paths overgrown with raspberry bushes and nettles also top our list of least favorite sections. This subject came up because we both remarked on the beauty and maintenance of the section we just hiked. Thanks to Reidoon and Andrew Neuquist and all those who work on the Montpelier section.

At last we realized no other hikers were coming to the shelter and it was getting colder and windier. With no hot dinner and no hope of breakfast in the morning we nibbled on snacks and drank twice our ration of protein powder before heading to "tent," feeling a bit Dickens-ish.