Appalachian Trail (day 38) - Hog Camp Gap to Maupin Field Shelter / mile 844

Very rainy day, up to a point that I decided to spend my second night on AT inside the shelter.

In the morning I've rollercoastered myself over Priest Wilderness, this section would have had some good views but unfortunately everything was covered in clouds and fog, I couldn't see more than few metres in front of me.

Rain could not decide if it wants to start falling or not until the afternoon when the answer was resounding yes and it had not stopped until next morning.

It looked like everyone stayed in towns and shelters today, I've only met two other hikers desperate enough to brave the weather. Priest Wilderness ended with the big downhill section, followed by yet another big climb to Three Ridges.

The highlight of the day for me was seeing the Barred Owl! I don't think I've ever seen an owl in the wild before so it felt very special, here's what Merlin has to say about this particular bird:

"Large owl, mottled brown and white. Black eyes. Listen to it's instantly recognizable: "Who cooks for you? Who cooks for you all" call. Favours large, mature forests, often near water. Hunts small animals at night; however is more active during the day than other owls"

Considering I've seen it in the afternoon by the body of water this description seems accurate. I also start to enjoy the way bird calls are described, very memorable.

I've arrived at the shelter around 6 PM, there was another hiker staying here but he wasn't much for a conversation and just huddled in his corner, perhaps he wasn't feeling well.

It looked like everybody had one of them days, I was glad it was over and done.