I got to Picketpost TH without a plan...I decided to do passage 17. After about a 1/4 mile, I changed my mind and opted for passage 18. Doing the AZT as an out-and-back, you are alloted such leyway. I'm glad I changed my mind. The hike north was nice single track the whole way and I took the road back and some off-trail to make it interesting. I forgot my hiking pole and ended up hiking twice to this really cool peak.

I didn't see anyone else until I saw two women on horseback. They were awesome and I got to pet the horses and spend some time with them. I told them I could hear their conversation from about 1 mile away.

The views throughout the day were steller as was the weather. My lunch spot was amazing right along the road with clear running water and sand to lay in and the shade was an added bonus. I soaked my feet in the cold water and relaxed and just soaked it all in. It was kinda Nirvanaish. The whole hike my mind was slipping. At one point, I was freaked out by a cow that came out of no where and gave me the hairy eyeball.

The streak continues....I've seen at least one deer or elk on every section. This one was walking right toward me(as the wind was blowing in my face). The Silver something windmill was spinning wicked fast. Definitely a passage I'll hike again when my friend Nick can make it.