Two if by foot, one if by bus—the CDT approach trail. Miles hiked 3ish?

I found my exit buddy! For those of you who don’t know, my best friend from skiing world, Alanna, has consented to joining me on this wild adventure. I met up with her late last night at a Tucson trail angel’s house. Thank you to Dar for letting us sleep in your yard! Here are pics of Alanna and I waking up to singing desert birds and doggy kisses from Dar’s critters.

From Dar’s place, it was a nice 3ish mile stroll through the streets of Tucson to the Greyhound station. We also enjoyed a quick pit stop at Starbucks to enjoy the last of a Christmas gift card, thanks mom! Yes, I brought my lunchbox from home…but only to savor the last of the fresh produce from my fridge. It’s going home via snail mail later today. 

We met 3 other thru hikers ar the Greyhound station, so good to be back around my trail folks. It feels like a family reunion. 

This afternoon has been down time to check in to our motel in Lordsburg, NM, organize for tomorrow, and enjoy some good Mexican food. Unlike hiking on the AT in New England, we are indeed very close to Mexico! No town day would be complete without a run to the Dollar General for tasty treats with our new friend, Slim.

Our shuttle to the border runs at 6 am tomorrow morning, and from there we’re on our own to walk the 85ish miles back to Lordsburg.

Happy trails!