Day 26

Had examination with orthopedist and no obvious signs of major damage to my ankle so will start physical therapy for strengthening.   At this point feels more like a sprain than the sharp pain I had with heavy pack on rough terrain.  Hopefully I can return to the trail next month.  Thanks for following the blog and all your support and prayers. !   😀 I posted below photos in last couple of days on hike and am reposting as I forgot to mention to note the damage from this summer/fall's wildfire.  It was evident along lots of areas on the hike, but particularly on the trip around Stsnding Indian.  Literally tens of thousands of acres have burned in the National Forrests and designated Wildernesses. Most of the fire damage can be seen along the Forrest floor.  Where the deadfall and organic debris buildup burned down to the soil base. In several places the trail is now a foot higher than the Forrest floor where the buildup of leaf debris was particularly deep  You may want to view photos on computer screen to see full scale of fire damage. Cudos to Forrest Service and firefighters for their efforts to build backfires and protect the shelters and campgrounds.  All for now.