What's Cookin'?

We've decided on one-pot meals for the trek. To that end, we cook a huge batch of food (enough to make 10 meals for two people), dehydrate it, then vacuum pack it. So far we have finished about half the dinners. We are on schedule as we still have, according to that hourglass gadget Whiptail added here, 51 more days. That's a good thing, because I can't decide what to make next. Some of the recipes in the books sound delicious, but are 'way too labor intensive at the campsite. Others seem simple, but unpalatable (does anyone really eat Spam?). So I may do a little experimentation...make a small version of a meal, then dehydrate and rehydrate it to see if it is tasty enough to make it into our packs.

Speaking of packs, we are really trying to keep the weight down. Mine is weighing in at about 15 lbs. before food and water, but I still have a few things to add. Guess it could be worse...

I've got to call about the permits now, so I'll sign off. Happy trails!

Addendum #2: An extended stay in Bryce.

We needed an option for resupply at the end of section 8, just prior to the all-too-brief excursion into Bryce Canyon National Park. After a bit of research, I found that a good alternative to hitching into Tropic or Cannonville, UT is a more thorough backcountry visitation of Bryce. We are going to hike the Under-the-Rim trail all the way from its intersection with the Hayduke Trail, to the trailhead near park headquarters. This rather pleasant alternative was facilitated by an amiable park ranger who not only agreed to 'pre-permit' us until we get to headquarters, but also will accept a resupply box. So after our showers we can either hitch, shuttle back, or hike back to Rainbow Point to reunite with the Hayduke. From what I've seen of the bizarre formations along this trail, the added 24 miles is well worth this diversion. Hoodoo you love, baby!