Saturday, September 21, 2013

Day 22: Connecting Route, John Muir, Marquette Trail, Portage Canal



Ah, these blisters are so annoying! Today a very minor blister on my heel, which hasn’t bothered me at all before, decided it didn’t want to be encased in a running shoe. What to do? Luckily I had my Keen sandals with me. I wore them all day, even when running, and they performed admirably. My blister thanked them.

The day was mostly cloudy and cool, although the sun broke through near the end of the day. The John Muir segment was short, but very pretty, running around Lake Ennis. Lots of pretty prairie and remnants of a rare oak savanna.

The Marquette Trail ran along a hilly bank above the Fox River. The views were gorgeous (see photos), although the footing was a bit tricky (the “bank” was marshy vegetation). The trail crossed 21 bridges/boardwalks, which was fun.

A gravel path ran along much of Portage Canal, although it switched to a bike path in town.

I ran into two section hikers today, and Ed and I saw innumerable cranes along the lengthy connecting route. A local told Ed she thinks they’re gathering for their flight south. They’re such cool birds, sort of prehistoric looking (and sounding). Can’t forget to mention a decent sized buck clattered across the road this morning, right as I was starting.

Last night we stayed at Bowman’s Oak Hill B&B in the Dells. The innkeepers are warm and friendly, our bed was quite comfy and the food was great.


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