After too much chocolate cake and slow-and-go DC traffic, I arrive at the trailhead around 2 p.m. According to the ranger who issued my backcountry permit, the bears are already up and about, preying on park neighbors' tulips. Somewhat late in the planning phase of this trip, I realized that this will be my first solo tramp in bear country. This realization is rather terrifying. I can't wait.
Here goes nothing...
