Feel the burn. Today is the required pack test. A 3 mile hike with 45 pounds in less then 45 minutes. The crew’s goal was to all cross the lane at the same time to reduce paper work complexity. We all achieved 42 minutes. The course was set up on the old landing strip the smoke jumpers used to use about a mile from base.

After lunch is the famous power hike where Dewey the Superintendent (head guy) leads the crew with full packs for an "easy 6 mile walk in the woods". The trail is a steady up hill grade for between 3-4.5 miles (distance remains disputed). Dewey is 6 1/2 feet tall and all legs. He leads the hike at the pace he would use if a fire were chasing him in an emergency situation. The goal for the crew is to stay with him for as long as possible. Only one person achieved that goal and it wasn't me. Tough hike but I held my own.