Total miles: 12.9 miles

Steps: 32,484

Injuries: Intercostal Strain

Achievements: Mount Rogers, *** 500 Miles ***, Fatman Squeeze, Grayson Highlands, Ponies!

For once, it seemed like our luck had changed.  We packed up at the usual time, but a trail angel brought us coffee.  We were expecting rain and thunderstorms.

Our goal was to first climb Mount Rogers, then enter the Grayson Highlands.  Captain Blogger was so excited to see the wild ponies.

After much tweaking, I finally have a way to tighten my straps so my back does not hurt.  We climbed Mount Rogers in good order.  As we started our descent, we spotted some ponies in the distance.

We started our descent further.  Kea and Sweeper were faster.  I spotted some more ponies and took Captain Blogger to them.

There is a broken rock called Fatman Squeeze.  I’m happy to say I had no problem passing through.  The hike has been successful.

We paused for lunch and the ponies came to us.