Trail Conditions

So I mentioned how we found the initial southern beginnings of the trail to be in excellent shape. For the most part it has remained the same. There are a few areas that need brushing or that ascend or descend steeply but we still applaud the work that has gone into creating this massive trail project. Thanks again to all the volunteers! Although ascents can be marvellously gradual and zigzaggy, they can also go directly straight up. This directness can take a lot out of you. While on one of these sharp upwards climb, I sketched in a poem to pass the time:

UP SUPERSTITION WILDERNESS
Climbing in the midday light
Uphill through the heavy white
The weight of the sun sits on my shoulders
There are no lies to tell
Poles stab forward followed by my step-step feet
Repeat
Breathe
Can’t think of anything except this uphill white uphill light
Sweat trickles down my face
Belly sweat wets my shirt
Still air. Tall grass. Heavy eyelids.
Poles stab forward; step-step feet
Repeat
Breathe
I am told to watch for snakes in the grass
But I can’t For if a snake dared show its head-
I WOULD BE THE BITER!