What distinguishes a mountain goat from us?

Only that it can't jump into the pool afterwards (because it can't open the door).

Today was really exhausting, I reached my limits, while Carsten danced lightly like an elf with an average heart rate of 125 over the rocks, I felt rather clumsy.

The whole thing started with a level footpath that abruptly ended in a steep natural stone staircase. 

Oh yes, we hiked the 7 km long RIM-Walk at the upper edge of Kings Canyon. Indicated with 3-4 hours. Just a quick interlude, so you know what was on the agenda today. 

Well then, let's go, it's good for a tight butt and fitness, I tried to talk the staircase nicely. I think that was the only part of the 7 km where Carsten's heart rate increased.

Eventually we made it to the top. The sun was blazing in the sky and the first half liter was gone and so were the first 200 meters.

But a great view, so first a photo. There was no time to rest for long, we still had 6.8 km ahead of us. We continued up and down stone slabs, past rock edges. And up and down again. That's how mountain goats feel. Up and down the mountain. 

For a change, we went down 3 super steep stairs, crossed a bridge and went up 3 stairs again. And again up and down the mountain. 

And just when you think you're almost there and can finally go downhill, you have to go uphill again. It felt like it would never end. The only thing that ended was the water. We clearly didn't bring enough.

Somehow it was pretty cool up there. Incredible rock formations and the walls of the canyon looked like they were milled smooth.

After 3 1/2 hours, I was just walking like a robot, had to concentrate fully on the path to avoid spraining my ankle. After 4 hours and 7.4 km, we made it. Completely exhausted and dehydrated, I just wanted to go home.

The pool was a welcome cooling off after the ordeal.

Oh, and we also had to do laundry and get rid of leftovers since we're returning the camper tomorrow. Have the first 3 weeks already passed? How time flies.

So, put the laundry in the machine and started the grill. It was warm again today, so the laundry was dry after 30 minutes.

Really interesting for you, right?

Okay, I'm done for today, Mareen and Alex will be here soon, the couple that Carsten got into a conversation with in Alice Springs, do you remember?

Two very interesting and super nice personalities. It's fun to talk to them. If you two are reading this: have a good trip and keep in touch every now and then.