Left Cloud Pond early and started the day with some deceptively strenuous sections. No big climbs, but a lot of smaller up and downs. Very picturesque swampy sections as well.

In the afternoon came to the West Branch Pleasant River crossing, which could have been one of the bad ones. After arriving we saw that it was just about knee deep. Very happy, as the alternative route around that would have cost us half a day at least.

Before crossing we checked out some unexpected trail magic at Gulf Hagas trailhead parking. Was very nice, with hot dogs, snacks, sodas, trash.

After that we crossed the river, and hiked another five miles to Carl Newhall Lean To. Daybreak was set up there in the shelter, and Turmeric was able to return her tent stakes, which we had found abandoned on trail earlier.

More: Old plane wreckage in the forest/on trail (father and son pilots were able to hike out quite alive supposedly).