The arcing hike into Crater Lake National Park was hot, dry and largely burned out, but led to a large pot of trail magic at the end. Forced to carry a full three liters of water to make the 20 mile stretch to the park entrance, I doggedly trudged along through a blackened forest, the tall husks of long-dead trees towering overhead but offering little shade. At times the high volcanic peak of Mount Thielsen reared its head above the horizon, and an unknown snow-capped mountain could be seen at one point in the far distance.
I felt relieved when finally I reached the low wooden sign demarcating the border of the park. A short walk down the road led to Mazama Village, the main visitor area complete with campground, small store and most importantly, a restaurant to which I immediately beelined. Extremely thirsty, I gulped down a full 20 ounce soda and refilled my cup twice before my large pizza arrived. While gracelessly shoving whole slices of gooey cheese into my mouth at a table outside, a man sitting a few tables down approached and asked if I was hiking the PCT. I told him about my journey and learned his name was Roger and he was on a roadtrip with his wife. When I finished eating he generously offered to donate some supplies for my trip, including two dehydrated Mountain House meals and a tall Coors beer. I thanked him profusely and we parted ways, wishing one another well as I walked toward the designated thru-hiker campsite reflecting on the kindness of strangers.
Russell on the Road 