AZT Day 29 – Mary Poppins Strikes and a Very Lazy City Day
“Life is simply what you make of what falls into your lap, be happy, make the day happy.” It all depends on your attitude. ~Dave McCoy
3 miles to the AZT from Flagstaff at mile 585
April 7, 2022
We didn’t wake up refreshed or very happy BUT the day took a major turn when our hiking friend, Mary Poppins (trail name) picked us up for breakfast at the “Toasted Owl” (highly recommended) and go shopping. Instantly happy campers. We hope to see Mary Poppins again on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.
After breakfast, chores, and all the internet connection, we set out to hike a few miles to reconnect with the main AZT trail, feeling recharged and ready for the final leg of our journey.
AZT Day 30 – Miles of snow and aspens
Some people say, “Never let them see you cry.” I say, if you’re so angry you can just cry, then cry. “It terrifies everyone.” —Tina Fey
AZT Mille 585 – 606.7
21.7 miles
April 8, 2022
This section had some challenging aspects: 5 miles of total snow, 5 miles of intermittent snow, messy forest, and felled forest. On the other hand, the backdrop of the mountains in and around San Francisco was exquisite. AND Mary Poppins strikes again by caching water for us in 2 separate locations needed. Thanks and rock on Mary Poppins.
Just before we got to the full snow section, we came across one of the most beautiful stands of aspen I have ever experienced. So much so that I made a separate bonus video showcasing this unique medium.
We are leaving tomorrow for a few kilometers of juniper forest without water. What a contrast with today.
AZT Day 31 – Walk, walk and walk again to water and open spaces
“If you’re going through hell, keep going.” –Winston Churchill
Thousand AZT 606.7 – 632.7
26 miles
April 9, 2022
Today we did a lot of walking in dry open spaces and juniper forests. We had a 20 mile waterless section. The highlight of the day was walking a half mile off trail to a wildlife watering hole at sunset. We were in the company of a herd of elk and many birds.
AZT Day 32 – Windy City USA, Wild Javelinas and Ponies, Team Lounge
“I’m trying to get all the calories I can, okay.”
~Michelle Beiswenger
AZT632.7 – 657.6
24.9 miles
April 10, 2022
Well it was blowing today and fortunately behind us.
One thing Michelle and I made a priority is to have fun on this hike. Part of this is taking quality breaks. This means not only sitting for a minute or two, but lying down in the dirt in a supine position. We are now called “Team Lounge”. I think it perfectly fits and complements the dusty Arizona Trail lifestyle.
Wildlife was abundant today with sightings of wild ponies, javelinas and our first bull. He didn’t love us.
Tonight Mary Poppins walked a bit to camp and have fun with us. Lots of laughter and just a little dancing.
AZT Day 33 – Heading to the largest canyon, Grandview Tower, lounging at Starbucks and Poppins pops in
You are the artist of your own life. Don’t give the brush to anyone else.
~JJR
AZT Thousand 657.6 – 678.4
20.4 miles
April 11, 2022
Well… this morning I felt like I was writing behind Michelle and Poppins as we flew to Tusayan Town while waiting in line for Starbucks. We spent the afternoon eating, drinking, charging electronics, and well… lounging. We only have a few miles left to complete this 300 mile section of the Arizona Trail.
The plan is to get up early (4:30am) and hike the remaining 6 miles to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon to enjoy the morning light of the canyon. Tonight we camp just inside the park, enjoying our last night together and enjoying our little homes in our tents.
AZT Day 34 – Proper finishing, personal barista, incoming weather
“Things are happening in the sky and we’re leaving here. »
~Christy Rosander
AZT Thousand 678.4 – 684.8
6.4 miles
April 12, 2022
The alarms went off at 4:30 a.m. to ride the remaining 6 miles (all on asphalt) to the South Rim. It was so fitting that we saw elk on the way. We enjoyed following their hoof prints and morning sightings over the last 300 miles.
After reaching the edge and greeting our accomplishment with a few photos and lying down, Mary Poppins came out of the bushes with hot coffee from Starbucks.
Our timing is perfect with the arrival of a new storm system. “Team Lounge” plans to return next spring to complete the remaining 100 miles of the Arizona Trail to the Utah border.
Michelle is going back to work and I’m heading to southern Utah for a few weeks to guide with @andrewskurka Adventures.
Thank you for your fun following, encouragement and support throughout this journey.
Only 5 days of hiking left (from the South Rim to the Arizona/Utah border) to complete the Arizona Trail.
to be continued in May 2023…
*Arizona Trail Planning, Gear and Food Resources*
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