I was not happy to hear the alarm go off at 6 a.m. today, heralding our trek to Stockport. But, once again, rain was in the forecast. So we all got up, ate breakfast and repacked our cars. Then we dropped the Eckerts’ car off at Kincaid Cave and drove mine to Stockport, near a lock, and began hiking backwards.
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Today, again, was mostly a road walk. We walked through tiny Stockport, then soon got on super hilly backroads. Not too long into the day, we had a trail segment. It wasn’t long, but we had to cross a creek three times. This portion of the trail was on private property, so it wasn’t well maintained. With all of the rain, our feet got pretty wet and muddy.
Trudging Back to Kincaid Cave
During the day, we passed a spot offering pony rides, then hiked through a covered bridge. But, uh-oh, we missed a turn back onto trails and hiked up an insanely steep hill. When we discovered our error, we decided it was most prudent to continue onto the roads into Chesterhill, which is near Kincaid Cave.
I should note that we again had aggressive dogs threaten us. The owner was sort of apologetic, but also said, “Just kick them!” 
Umm … no, we’re not going to kick aggressive dogs. Luckily, the dog air horn worked pretty well. I’ve (sadly) had to use it a lot this trip.
When we were less than one mile from the Eckerts’ car, it began to rain. Luckily, it wasn’t too bad.
Day Is Done
Tonight we are ensconced in a really lovely Air BnB in McConnellsville. Rain is predicted for the next several days. That, coupled with the hilly terrain, caused me to pivot and shorten my days. I’ll also be staying in more motels versus camping. It’s just too wet and muddy.
Snowshoe
Ohio NCT miles today: 12.5 (20.1 km)
Ohio NCT miles to date: 685.4 (1,103 km)
Total NCT miles to date: 3,533.1 (5,686 km)
Total NCT miles to go: 1,066.9 (1,717 km)
Most useful gear today: My dog air horn, of course!
