Thursday, April 20, 2017

Pics, Pics and More Pics

I've seen so many amazing things over the past couple weeks that I can barely wrap my head around all of it, let alone write about it. Until I get my thoughts together, I hope you'll enjoy some random photographs from the Israel National Trail. 


 

Real Israeli craft beer! This delicious porter is from the Negev Brewing Company. 


 

A gift from my friends Itai and Yona. 



The trail blazes took a little getting used to but it's easier now: The INT follows the black trail to the left and the blue trail continues to the right. 



 

 A monument to a man who died out here from dehydration. A reminder that mistakes made in the Negev are quickly punished. 



 

I'm sure my cell phone camera does not do justice to this view. The Maktesh Katan (the 'small crater') was stunning to see but difficult to cross. 



 

In Detroit, when someone shows you their '67 Mustang, you think, "Wow... 50 years old!" These steps were carved into the rock by the Romans 2,300 years ago. Puts things into perspective. 



 

Again, hard to tell how massive this structure. It's called the Karbolet and it's basically a giant cliff turned up at 45 degrees. The trail takes you along the knife edge at the top. 



 

Nightmare takes Leave No Trace VERY seriously. He strapped this plastic car bumper to his pack and hiked it out. 



I am constantly reminded that this entire desert uses to be under water. Amolites and sea shells are everywhere. 



 

One of the few natural springs here in the desert. I had to dip into that cool cool water. 




 

 
My friend Denise looking majestic at the cliff's edge. 



What's the difference between a hiker and a homeless person? I'm not sure. In this country, we're both!



 
 The Afghan Fox (not my photo). These things are everywhere and they are BOLD. They have no problem sneaking into your campsite and stealing your food. 



The tomb of David Ben-Gurion. He was Israel's first Prime Minister and a super-genius. 



 
 Nightmare setting up his tarp before dark. On windy nights, he does a 'storm pitch'. 



 
More Ibex. I see them everywhere and I always stop to watch them. 



 
....for now. I'll post more pics again soon. 

I love comments! Please leave yours below. 

24 comments:

  1. Great Photos!!! I met this guy along the way, and he's a real.....Good guy;)
    -N

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    1. Natan! Thanks for leaving a comment! I'm in Arad today (Friday). Where are you guys? I will visit the Dead Sea today and hike out tomorrow (Saturday) morning.

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  2. Awesome stuff!!! Keep it up!!!

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    1. Thanks, Jeff. You would not believe all the crazy stuff I'm seeing over here. We'll get together when I get back so I can tell you about it.

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  3. It looks Amazing Chris, can't wait to hear about your whole adventure...miss you, stay safe and enjoy your hike..

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    1. Thanks, Lynda. We'll resume the shenanigans as soon as I get back. Until then, don't let anyone touch Flooring and Furniture!

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  4. This looks like an amazing hike! I'd love to see some of the foxes. Have you been taking any video?

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    1. I have recorded a bunch of video but I need really good wifi to upload it. So far, I've only found spotty coverage. I'll post some soon.

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  5. I love the pictures. It is as close to being with you as it gets.

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    1. Thanks, Jerry. That beer was good but it was no Flying Mouse!

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  6. Oh WOW, what an amazing adventure. Love seeing this pictures. How wonderful that Nightmare cares that much about the trail. Blessings.

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    1. This must be Becky. Thank you for the kind words. Yes, Nightmare is adamant about Leave No Trace. He's packed out tons of garbage included a metal chair.

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  7. Love the picture of the spring in the desert. The water looked a little green. Did you drink it as well as swim in it? Also very impressed that Nightmare hiked out a bumper? How do you suppose that got in there?

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    1. Hey, Susie! That water was a little green. And gross. And there were huge 'oriental hornets' (I looked them up) buzzing all around but I simply could not resist. That pit could have been filled with kerosene and I still would have climbed in.
      We sometimes find weird trash out here because of the flash floods that occur in the winter. They flood the wadis (dry river beds) and bring trash from miles away.
      Thanks for leaving a comment!

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  8. Glad to see you Chris.......and pleased that you are fulfilling a dream and having a great time!!! Look forward to hearing/seeing more of your adventure!!!

    Teri L.

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  9. AMAZING PHOTOS.... I thoroughly enjoy your photos and words. Keep them coming. We miss you but happy for your adventure.

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    1. Thanks, Roberta. I've got some good posts coming soon but all I could manage was pictures for now.

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  10. Hi Christopher.
    I'm doing a promotional video for the trail and looking for cool people that are doing the trail right now.
    If possible I would like to meet and join you for a part of the way.
    How can i contact you?

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    1. I would love to. Email me at cbhillier2@gmail.com

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  11. I'd like to have as many pictures as possible of Nightmare carrying out the garbage off the INT. It's important.

    C U soon.

    Yankale

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    1. I can send you many pics. We both embrace the LNT philosophy. I'll contact you when I'm leaving Jerusalem.

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  12. Hey chris your blog is awesome keep doin what your doin, man. I aspire your lifestyle!

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