After nearly a week off trail, time begins to move more quickly. Without a constant stream of new sights, and a continuous effort throughout the day, things seem to pass by faster. I spent three days exploring the city, more or less aimlessly, but with plenty of opportunity to reflect on the nearly six months I’d just spent on trail.

The first day, we all had plans to explore some of the city, and look for more town clothes. I still needed to get my hands on a passable shirt, and the others were looking for a full kit. There was a baseball game on later, and we all agreed to meet up at a sports bar to watch that.

In the afternoon, Mango and Cook arrived in town. We met up down by the wharf and hung out for a few hours. Later in the afternoon, we all headed towards the sports bar to watch the game. Seven of us shared a table at the bar and watched the baseball game, I have to say, we did quite a bad job of pretending not to be a group of stunned hikers who just got off trail.

On the second day, we checked out of the Air BNB. Three of the others were leaving Seattle, Goldfish had plans to hike more down south, while Sweet Potato and Showers were heading back home. Veggie was staying in town for one more day, and I had plans to stay as well, but in a different hostel. We all cleared out and went our separate ways. It was bittersweet knowing that we’d each completed the experience of a lifetime, but also knowing that it was really over now.

I spent the afternoon hanging out with Cook and Mango, who were still in town for another day. We visited the 5 Point Cafe, and the Pike Place Market while we were in town. After that, we headed to Pine Box for a couple of drinks.

On the third day, I found a nice coffee roaster near the hostel I’d stayed at. I hung out here for a while, Mango and Cook joined me later in the morning. We hung out for the afternoon and returned to the 5 Point Cafe for lunch.

It’s strange to be doing such normal things in town. Certainly, three days have passed feeling about as quick as one day on trail. I have plans to continue traveling before returning home, and now that I’m facing the reality of being off trail, I’m glad to be doing so.