New Jersey is Rugged!

Monday was a long and difficult day for Lyle--he has to not only develop his trail legs but his mental toughness (we talked a lot about this as he was planning his hike).  Lots of rocks but really good weather.  Lyle completed 11 miles and reached the camping area fairly early.  After Lyle had set up camp a couple strolled into camp and introduced themselves to Lyle.  They were caretakers and visit frequently to clean up trash and remind the hikers about using the bear box.  This particular site is one of the most active bear sites.  They stayed for about 20 minutes and left taking all of Lyle's trash with them.  Lyle was nervous about staying there alone (and I was nervous about this too) although he was so tired he was going to sleep in spite of the heightened concern about evening bear visits.  But eventually other hikers started to come in for the evening and there were 5 other hikers for the night.  Lyle had set up his tent in the shelter for added warmth but there was enough room for everyone as several hikers set up their tents separate from the shelter.  Next morning Lyle reported that it was an uneventful and restful evening.  Thank goodness!  Several of the hikers are heading in the same direction as Lyle although they are only doing NJ and NY.  After a brief good morning he is off for another day of hiking.