It dropped to around 19°F overnight, and my water pouch froze. When I got up it was 21°F, and the forecast (which was correct) is for it to not go above 26°F.

My plan had been to load up with water and camp at ‘Paddy Creek Trolltunga’. However, I realized that I’d have a lot of trouble keeping all that water from freezing during the 26°F day, and even lower temperatures at night.

Looking at the map, I thought I’d try to follow a ‘Social Trail’ that passed nearby and ought to head north-west to the North Loop; I could then try to find a better campsite overlooking ‘Spring Hollow.’ Or I could go and camp near where the shortcut crosses Little Paddy Creek. The water in both places was running and wouldn’t freeze, so I’d have no water issues.

Despite all the downed trees and obstructions, I made good time to my planned campsite, arriving at three-fifteen. But I was not too fond of the spot, as the only trees suitable to hang my hammock from were right next to the fire ring. I spent about an hour looking for an alternate place to spend the night. It was getting dark by the time I’d finished I’d settled on a spot and set up camp, ready for what promised to be a cold night.

Today is the only day warm enough for shorts! It’s in the mid-fifties, but quite windy, so no sitting around cooling off for too long.

I love this spot and stopped for a bite to eat before embarking on what I reckoned was going to be a difficult time on the trail at the bottom of the ridge. The area flooded recently, and no doubt the trail will be messed up.

I made good time getting here, about an hour-and-a-half or so. I didn’t start out until eleven-twenty.