Monday May 19: Afternoon at Deep Creek Campground

From the journal of Ben Lebofsky,
“Preparations were made at the deep creek campground, our trail head. This is where we leap off into the great green abyss. I have no clue what to expect. Everyone has built up a head of steam and seems eager to begin. Myself, I feel good, feel ready, and soak in the collective excitement. I’ve got my knife, my shovel, batteries, sleeping bag, tent, and a great big hard-on. Oh boy, this is going to be great…”

Five days later Ben would break his foot and, due to complications involving infection and gangrene, eventually have it amputated.

Monday May 19: Deep Creek Trail Late Afternoon

The initial excitement of our intrepid hikers is tempered by the hours leading up to the trek spent in cars as they sped away from their homes and responsibilities back in Ohio. Many of the first timers find themselves out of breath and burdened by poorly packed packs, but the sights and the promise of untold beauty give them energy to plod on. The forest is lush, damp, welcoming like a mother’s warm bosom. The creek is a guide telling them they are on the right path and that a camp site can’t be too much farther.

Monday May 19: Deep Creek Trail, Evening

The hike continues into the evening. Weary from their long drive from Ohio, and the ups and downs along the initial 3.5 mile hike, they camp at the first site they can find along the Deep Creek. Quietly, respectfully, they set up camp as if they are laying down in the cathedral of a revered church. The quiet of the night is broken by fitful rain showers. The first day on the trail was wet and muddy, but the spirits of the proud naturalist warriors are far from dampened and each alone with their thoughts in the deep dark of the forested night looks forward to tomorrow.