It was about lunchtime on Wednesday, August 9. We were on the last leg of the hike from Toxaway Lake back to Pettit Lake and home. We hiked in the previous Sunday and had spent three night together on the trail. Over Snowyside Pass from Alice Lake, down into the Toxaway drainage, up on Tuesday to Sandy Mountain and a quick look into the Edna Lake drainage.

With only about three miles to go, it was time for lunch. Plus, my knee hurt, my feet hurt, and I was tired! Even so, the joy, thrill, and beauty of our four days together -- Ben, Mike, Chris, and Dad -- was very much on my mind. It was the first experience at backpacking for all of us except Mike, who was our organizer, leader, and guide. Also it was the first time all the Hirby "boys" had spent such sustained time together. We had a wonderful time, and if the three of us who are married can persuade our wives that the benefits of our being away outweigh the costs, we may do it again!

Lunch break (and foot break!)
Originally uploaded by troelby.

More photos from
Chris
Ben