It's This Simple . . .

Day 13, Dufton to Alston: 20 miles

The route description: This is the longest and the toughest day on the Pennine Way . . . In clear weather, this is a splendid stage, climbing high and staying high, enjoying wide ranging views.  However, these hills hold the English record for bad weather.  ~ Paddy Dillon, The Pennine Way

The weather forecast: Persistent and heavy rain (this came true, except in times of sleet).

The view from Cross Fell (the high point on the Pennine Way at 2930 feet);

OK, so this is really a white wall, but at the reduced visibility we had today, the picture is spot on!

All that mattered once we got hot showers and dry clothes:

Trekker's sports drink -- It was a heck of a day

We are well: Tired and a little achy, wondering if we're crazy . . . but well.  This evening starts our second (and final rest day).  G'night from Alston in Cumbria!