Thanks, Rodney, for looking at my little travelogue. Well, FRiends, the trail did finally end. It was beautiful while it lasted, but after many many stops to take pictures, cool my weary feet, and breathe, I did reach the end and jumped into this lovely hot springs with a small group of other weary hikers. Here's just about the only picture I can legally post here, to give you an idea of the setting and ambience:
The water temp was about 104 degrees.