
Shadows lengthened as the sun descended below the trees. John needed to find a spot to spend the night as he mentally checked off potential threats. Wolves, bears, coyotes, and possible hypothermia were but a few. His clothes were damp which would not help him keep warm tonight. There were plenty of loose sticks and branches to make a fire, but with no blankets, it would be an uncomfortable night.
The river began to narrow and increase in speed. The banks became steeper as he worked his way along them looking for an appropriate area to spend the night. He could barely see the sun through the trees as it neared the horizon.
John noticed a large tree that had fallen across the river. On closer examination, he saw it had been felled on purpose. The banks were now around fifteen feet high and the river flowing at a quick pace. The most interesting discovery was the lean-to on the other side of the river. It looked to be about four feet high, six by four feet at the base. It looked inviting to John but he was worried about crossing the slippery log. The sun touched the horizon as John was deciding what to do…
Cross the Log Continue Downstream