It started pouring on I-90 on the way to the trailhead so I stopped for gas and hung in the car for a few at the West Tiger trailhead at 0900. I was reminded of a scene/narrative in the movie "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" this am. Particularly when Brad Pitt talks about the events that lead up to Cate Blanchett's accident in the movie. He lists all the tasks and small events that lead up to a chosen and unfortunate incident and how missing even one of those tiny events can change history. For example, I tried to get out earlier but had issues with the weather report, packing, dog, traffic, all minute things but it lead me to the parking lot just at the same time as I received a text from a good friend who's husband passed unexpectantly. I was glad to be there with my phone at that moment and not hiking in the rain in which case I would have missed it and not had time to reciprocate in the moment.
I continued with my hike with a new sense of gratitude, and some sadness. Took it up the Nook and Section Line trails to the summit of WT3 thinking of all the great memories and times spent with them. The trails have alot of standing water in the first 3rd and muddy in many places. There are no blowdowns (thank you) or debris. There is a dusting of wet snow at the summit with a slight very cold breeze (freezing level 2500 ft today). On the hike, If it wasn't actually drizzling, there was tiny wet slush balls falling from the trees so I was quite wet but managed to stay warm in a hardshell jacket and soft-shell pants. Wore long gaiters to help with foot warmth. I tagged the summit and descended to West Tiger Railroad grade intersection and had some tea and a couple of delish cookies. (From the summit I went back the way I hiked up). A little quicker pace on the way down and less rain. Saw about 6 people ascending as I was descending. Very quiet today which was perfect. Happy Trails!
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