CDT Day 130: Storm Lake To Highway 1

Daily Miles: 12.1, Total Miles: 2,284.7

I thought it was chilly last night as I put my gloves on for the first time this morning. Confirmation was seeing a thin sheet of ice on a shallow pond soon after heading out.

I hiked further around beautiful Storm Lake, climbed to a pass and then down to Twin Lakes, obscured by tall pines. Came to an obviously new trail that didn’t show up on my Guthook app or my maps. I decided to take a break at a creek and contemplate my next move. Down this new trail, rides a guy on a mountain bike. By something of a coincidence, turns out this guy is Jerry Brown, the maker of the Bear Creek CDT maps. Who better to ask directions from? Jerry had heard about this new section of trail and was there to confirm the route and coordinates. By the time I got out to the Twin Lakes Road and Highway 1, he had finished his survey and was arriving in his truck. Perfect timing for a ride into Anaconda – thanks again, Jerry!

Post office, lunch, checked into the Grizzly Den and hiker chores in that order.

On a recommendation for a good steak, I had dinner at nearby Barclays Supper Club. I swore I wouldn’t bore readers with food descriptions but I can’t help it. A hiker feast of breadsticks, relish tray, shrimp cocktail, salad, spaghetti, baked potato, perfectly prepared medium-rare NY strip steak and a large bowl of huckleberry ice cream. This satisfied, happy camper waddled back to his motel.

Tomorrow, I plan to hike south from town back to where I left off along Highway 1 and then hitch back to Anaconda.