Despite a false start, I indeed managed to complete my 40th Wonderland Trail hike September 10-13. The false start was the prior week. Most of September was tied up in prior commitments so it was either the first or second week in the month or wait until October and hope for a good weather window. Despite warm temps and smoky skies, I attempted a 4 day itinerary starting September 3rd. None of the ideal camps were available, so it was a wonky itinerary to begin with. Either the days were too short or too long. The first day was Longmire to Olallie Creek Camp, a mere 16 miles on the Wonderland. The second day was to be Olallie to Dick Creek, well over a 30 mile day. However, I was destroyed by heat and smoke on day two. Olallie Creek to White River alone took me 11 hours to complete. I was so lethargic and behind schedule that there was no question I had to abandon the hike at White River. I secured a spot and my wife came the next morning to pick me up. Because highway 123 was closed the entire month, we had to drive a route from White River to Longmire that was well over 3 hours alone.

My wife encouraged me to try again the next week, so I set off with a good 4 day itinerary on September 10th. The first 2 days involved 25 miles each, with the third day a bit longer at 31 miles. However, that put the last day at 14.5 miles, which had me strolling into Longmire in time for lunch at the Inn with my daughter. Everything came together on this hike, making for a memorable and relaxing 40th transit. I reminisce along the way and incorporate video from up to 20 years ago, a period where I had already hiked the trail 20 times. I hope you enjoy this 40th celebration hike! Filmed in 4K, run time 58 minutes.