Detour to DC

Days 93 – 95

It was nice waking up in a bed with a hot breakfast provided by the hotel.  After we ate it was time to complete some chores.  As the laundry was going, we sorted through the cold weather gear Kurt brought down.  It’s a little early to change out but we’re okay with the timing.  Now the challenge is figuring out how these bulkier items will fit in our packs.  Some changes include swapping out our 30 degree sleeping bags for 15 degree bags, some more wool layers, hiking pants, and gloves.

We’ll never claim to be lightweight hikers. Reminder, we’re carrying two stoves, a chair, and an extra hammock (although we’ve decided to send our hammock home as we are hiking bigger miles and have less time at camp now); however Eric is excited to get a lightweight piece of gear from Hyperlite Mountain Gear, the Versa Waist Belt. Any of you other lightweight backpackers out there want 15% off your next purchase from hyperlite mountain gear, use code ERIC99129 or the link below:

https://www.hyperlitemountaingear.com/discount/ERIC99129

After completing our resupply and getting everything into our packs, we left Front Royal making our way to Washington, DC.  We met Eric’s aunt, Susi in Bethesda and shared parts of our adventure.  Kurt and Susi were excited to catch up as well so with plans to meet tomorrow evening, we left them and made our way to the capital.

We spent a few hours snacking and resting at the hotel. In the evening we walked around the White House enjoying the warm summerish air (we are used to a crisp cold feeling back home this time of year). We’re excited to take a few days off trail to rest, relax, and recharge, although we do get a sense of pack separation anxiety.  It has been strange not putting our packs on for past three days   During this time off trail, we enjoyed exploring several museums, attending a baseball game, and catching up with family.

Eric enjoyed catching up with cousins; Javid, Robert, Andrew, and Roshan.  It has been over 10 years since he has seen most of them and almost 20 since last time he saw Robert.

We have enjoyed our time in DC but are missing the trail.  While DC wasn’t the most relaxing few days, they certainly were exciting! We’re also closely monitoring hurricane Ian’s path as it slowly makes it’s way north.  We are looking forward to continuing our SOBO adventure while making good decisions!