First off the weather was pretty incredible. It was unseasonably warm and I personally spent a bunch of time in a t-shirt. The 60 degree weather was a far cry for Thanxgivings I and VI; trips spent almost entirely at or below freezing. We had a total of 13 participants. Most of the regulars were joined by our first ever hike-only Thanxgiving participant. Pete and Doug got an early start with a hike up Bear Mountain. The rest of the crew left the S-BM trailhead at 1PM. Pete and Doug caught up on the trail. Thankfully we got the shelter, and in a change from recent years, saw few people other than a Korean hiking group. No one shared the site with us.
Cara had a quick scare with a rapid-onset allergic reaction to some trailmix which was alleviated with Pete's know-how and a healthy dose of Benedryll from Paul. Just prior to dinner Dan and Pete hiked Doug down to the car for extraction and to grab additional gear and move some cars.
At Leah's request we continued the turkey-roast for the third year. Wood was abundant due to recent storms and someone's illegal felling of a huge oak a few months ago. We were able to maintain three fires for most of the evening for cooking and entertainment. The food came out great again and out turkey was flanked with stuffing, carrots, cornbread, rolls, sweet potatoes, and mashed potatoes. Dessert included pumpkin cake, hot chocolate, and s'mores.
Most of us tented: No less than six tents were pitched and the remainder stayed in the shelter. As promised Rob arrived late, around 1AM. Everyone enjoyed the warm morning with some hot beverages and a leisurely departure. Rob left first to head back to south Jersey. Paul, Jay, and Carl left shortly after. The rest of us left just after that and took a leisurely pace back with a prolonged stop at ORAK.
Trip conditions were great as was the food. Looking forward to more. Next overnight will likely by December 30-31.
