tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-58600002856738069172024-03-04T21:05:37.676-08:00The Glitter BlogUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger64125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860000285673806917.post-5698887147042386712016-06-22T10:31:00.001-07:002016-06-22T10:31:11.651-07:00Approximately 684 days laterI'm back on the trail! Blogger seems to have taken away the iPhone app, so I've switched my blog to Wordpress. Check it out at <a href="http://pctglitter.wordpress.com/">PCTGlitter.wordpress.com</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860000285673806917.post-51932670951852778962014-08-28T15:20:00.004-07:002014-08-28T15:20:50.734-07:00Post-PCT UpdateIt has been 19 days since I left the PCT.<br />
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When I first got back to Seattle I was excited to see my friends, move into my new apartment, and get back to my comfortable routine. At the same time I was anxious about having to answer everyone's questions. Why did I leave the trail? Am I <i>that</i> sick? I felt confident about that I made the right decision for myself, but I was having a difficult time verbalizing my feelings in a way that satisfied other people's curiosity. I knew that I was still processing the experience and I found myself experiencing shame in a way that I didn't expect.<br />
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I started having nightmares every night about leaving the trail. One night I dreamed that my ex-boyfriend angrily blocked the trail in front of me and I couldn't get around him. Another night that my father berated me for no apparent reason and dropped me off in the middle of the desert, miles from the nearest trail head. The following week the setting of the dreams changed, but the feelings they contained did not. I dreamed that I was fired from my job and I dreamed that I ate my friend's toddler and was too ashamed to tell her that it was me. I find it interesting how the feeling of shame has arisen in my subconscious even though I consciously know that I have nothing to be ashamed about.<br />
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After seeing a doctor in Ashland and having several stool tests, I still have no clear answer about the physical symptoms that I was, and still am, experiencing. The doctor suggested that I could have treated the giardia successfully in Seiad Valley and my that body is still recovering, made more difficult by the fact that I continued hiking. The doctor also suggested that I could have an illness that wasn't found on the specific tests he ran or that the tests returned a false-negative. I've scheduled a follow-up with my naturopath here in Seattle, but at this point I'm not expecting that she'll find anything conclusive. Maybe she'll recommend an expensive and out-of-pocket panel that will show an overabundance of some bacteria in my gut. Who knows.<br />
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Besides what I've already mentioned, the only update I can give is that reintegration into city life has been difficult and my feelings about leaving the PCT are complicated. I feel healthy even though my bowels do not and I'm doing my best to recognize and release any shame that I'm feeling about not finishing the PCT. I'm looking forward to never having to eat a Snickers again and I'm excited to provide trail magic for some of my hiker friends as they pass through Washington State.<br />
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Thank you all for following me on this journey.<br />
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Until next time,<br />
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GlitteRob<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860000285673806917.post-90706846058646020942014-08-14T20:43:00.000-07:002014-08-14T20:43:02.356-07:00The end... For now!<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
I'm ill and my body needs more rest. I've decided to fly back to Seattle. I've given this hike my best and it's time for me to go back to Seattle and heal my mind and body. I'm proud of what I've done and it has been a really difficult decision for me to leave the trail.</div>
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I want to say goodbye to all of my badass hiker buddies and THANK YOU to everyone who read my blog and supported me along this journey. I especially want to thank my dad for his constant encouragement. </div>
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Farewell <i>for now</i> PCT.</div>
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Also, I plan on writing a longer post about my decision to take an extended break from the PCT, as well as my readjustment to city life, just as soon as I have enough energy.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860000285673806917.post-23394599078451378232014-08-04T23:28:00.001-07:002014-08-08T20:58:42.127-07:00PCT Days 119-125: Ashland to... Ashland<div><b>Days 119-121</b></div><div><i>Zero days</i></div><div><br></div><div>I'm up as the sun peaks into my window over interstate 5. I eat as much as I can at the motel's continental breakfast before jumping in the car with Strawberry, Unicorn, and their parents for the 8 hour drive back to Seattle.</div><div><br></div><div>I've decided to go home after all, but only for a few days. I need some rest and a healthy dose of love from my family in Seattle. On the drive I buy a plane ticket from Seattle back to Ashland/Medford, just to have my plan set in stone.</div><div><br></div><div>Thank you Strawberry, Unicorn, and family for your generosity and the snacks on the way back to Seattle!</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSuh7IoN12CYupmU2nuhaSSDglGtmatVCOqQaCB9UkuFud50Oork9lGA9Tt3YQL9NUlXhhkFve4JtHoR31awo3r0Fqx5jh8wvqRLLthQyIq6t2G__8T35kQchtLT7LtmcEKn_iJAOuT10d/s640/blogger-image-73322639.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSuh7IoN12CYupmU2nuhaSSDglGtmatVCOqQaCB9UkuFud50Oork9lGA9Tt3YQL9NUlXhhkFve4JtHoR31awo3r0Fqx5jh8wvqRLLthQyIq6t2G__8T35kQchtLT7LtmcEKn_iJAOuT10d/s640/blogger-image-73322639.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div><div>I arrived home in the evening and immediately went to a going away picnic for my friend Stand who is moving to Norway in a few days. I knew a bunch of people at the picnic and it was incredible, and a little overwhelming, to see so many familiar faces.</div><div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEion-NXZXpClCw_G4hGMqu4Y9KZLmvCdNAADVacqrgl7R3oDtMxXt5tFYd8tIBjEUa1zTvaN8uiWhSF5kquOPXavKsW0sN9FAwaaSAd-cGosu3KuNdZYGUfWVVjufxZr1xGLX4YL8NVFhP2/s640/blogger-image-1798074499.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEion-NXZXpClCw_G4hGMqu4Y9KZLmvCdNAADVacqrgl7R3oDtMxXt5tFYd8tIBjEUa1zTvaN8uiWhSF5kquOPXavKsW0sN9FAwaaSAd-cGosu3KuNdZYGUfWVVjufxZr1xGLX4YL8NVFhP2/s640/blogger-image-1798074499.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Seattle must have known I was coming because the PCT made the headline in the Seattle Times! I met the guy they wrote about (I think his name is Stringbean) when I was hiking with my dad. In fact, my dad hitched back to his car with this guy's support crew!</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH1hAdw1FOoQKuoJ4OUzFYTrPNe-StKTZ-CmWojqUbaHiGtcCLoGEm-wz9UUSSexdhG3j4iqTqdZR1YBpBusPmMcrlkhgi0JBnbR569YyTXRGTDARTD1H_Tw03xrIYG_O8e_Exo1Dn6Lzs/s640/blogger-image--1595532585.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH1hAdw1FOoQKuoJ4OUzFYTrPNe-StKTZ-CmWojqUbaHiGtcCLoGEm-wz9UUSSexdhG3j4iqTqdZR1YBpBusPmMcrlkhgi0JBnbR569YyTXRGTDARTD1H_Tw03xrIYG_O8e_Exo1Dn6Lzs/s640/blogger-image--1595532585.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>My visit was absolutely perfect. I spent tons of quality time with my friends and even went paddle boarding with my guy. Speaking of paddle boarding, I managed to get my iPhone wet. Oops! Hopefully this doesn't affect the quality of my pictures in the future.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAzRvmM28kVY9E3k74XbGkVWESNYvuggfd9_OxegW8M8Qw42BQFHn2mVEYAzuVtGaIorf3i-PAeOgZFErIGumgocfpzmYjfxOieGJKLxWYxLf2HyBUg_POJNRiN3J249M03xy4yU68bSPi/s640/blogger-image--49446735.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAzRvmM28kVY9E3k74XbGkVWESNYvuggfd9_OxegW8M8Qw42BQFHn2mVEYAzuVtGaIorf3i-PAeOgZFErIGumgocfpzmYjfxOieGJKLxWYxLf2HyBUg_POJNRiN3J249M03xy4yU68bSPi/s640/blogger-image--49446735.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Thank you everyone for your love, support, pizza, and help in getting me ready to go back to the trail. I am especially thankful for my guy, Ethan, for taking so much time to help me when I was overwhelmed with town chores. </div><div><br></div><div>Thank you Ethman for your patience and care, for helping me shop, and for fixing both my tent and backpack. You're the BEST!</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisbAA8NTb8Xdx6cS52T4WySpdFG5d686jmaxkNL55au3P8iqt8huM-KuT_Bn-xdFGXx3iRIJFtf0RakN9RT7DXS_lo_PyDfjYI6rEBRFBZ5F0kpY80w80qdpp-TC1FF_8M51urt7DBcNux/s640/blogger-image--296601627.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisbAA8NTb8Xdx6cS52T4WySpdFG5d686jmaxkNL55au3P8iqt8huM-KuT_Bn-xdFGXx3iRIJFtf0RakN9RT7DXS_lo_PyDfjYI6rEBRFBZ5F0kpY80w80qdpp-TC1FF_8M51urt7DBcNux/s640/blogger-image--296601627.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div><div><b>Day 122</b></div><div><i>Miles 1727-1729</i></div><div><br></div><div>Ethan walks me the bus stop bright and early as I start my trip back to Ashland. I take the bus to the train, the train to the airport and a little plane to Medford. I hop off the plane, eager to meet Moxie and T-Rose in Ashland, and wait for my backpack in baggage claim. I wait 45 minutes and watch the last person walk away from the airport's only baggage carousel. Um... where's my bag?</div><div><br></div><div>The woman at the Alaska counter tells me that my bag was sent to Portland, but not to worry because it's on the next flight and they'll happily fedex it to my address. I give my best hiker trash smile and explain that I'm essentially homeless and everything of value that I own is in that pack. She asks if I know anyone in town or if there is anywhere I can go. I explain that I'm out here alone, without a hotel, and I can't go anywhere without my backpack.</div><div><br></div><div>After some discussion and genuine effort on her part, she gets my bag on a flight that will arrive at 5pm, just 5 hours after it was originally expected. Cool, I think, I'll just hang out in the airport until then. Luckily, the Medford airport is air-conditioned and it feels pretty luxurious compared to what I'm used to.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm0I9ogp5-Rg1TJA3vBWm0MsBXwAtapxKBJrgY7lHVJAA0pI8FgoYsuxmC8xGKfutxWKVhniJ0m1CHtTUDx-vpALJ08JkvMPhIASZSq4gqGyRiQzmKYuA6Yk-piKCIzJbiocQutnSDgTr1/s640/blogger-image--1398030933.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm0I9ogp5-Rg1TJA3vBWm0MsBXwAtapxKBJrgY7lHVJAA0pI8FgoYsuxmC8xGKfutxWKVhniJ0m1CHtTUDx-vpALJ08JkvMPhIASZSq4gqGyRiQzmKYuA6Yk-piKCIzJbiocQutnSDgTr1/s640/blogger-image--1398030933.jpg"></a></div><br></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">My friends decide to wait a few more hours for me and it's not long until we're all reunited in Ashland. I haven't seen T-Rose since I last left Independence in the Sierras! We're also joined by Mountain Spice, who I met way back in Warner Springs around mile 100.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk7IMW-KCoIq16oEsRZD-GFfD7rMSW3EAF9DEYzTaHkVTSuNOHxCWpctuoCQ0jwJhKvgRHu-n4BUuL_vTqhi8aGOGduQY-3naQZrG8_G8sly89EUcp8OpenCxR-F3DRNjoNGTAtkaQtJ8u/s640/blogger-image-155413769.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk7IMW-KCoIq16oEsRZD-GFfD7rMSW3EAF9DEYzTaHkVTSuNOHxCWpctuoCQ0jwJhKvgRHu-n4BUuL_vTqhi8aGOGduQY-3naQZrG8_G8sly89EUcp8OpenCxR-F3DRNjoNGTAtkaQtJ8u/s640/blogger-image-155413769.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div><div>Since we got such a late start we only hike a little over a mile before stopping to camp in a big open field under a giant blue sky. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGA9f4csMsRwpoI5nb1bHzdFqXP42NeM1tvky2e-XLj3Fj81ExVWrgzyd-dV_9PB-VVyOyjhRIvQh18xPUc8SNY5zAT9A6nT_UyRKI9FXwxsomTOyJ8ytjsLHnDe59odk0laknBYs5_cUl/s640/blogger-image--398523727.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGA9f4csMsRwpoI5nb1bHzdFqXP42NeM1tvky2e-XLj3Fj81ExVWrgzyd-dV_9PB-VVyOyjhRIvQh18xPUc8SNY5zAT9A6nT_UyRKI9FXwxsomTOyJ8ytjsLHnDe59odk0laknBYs5_cUl/s640/blogger-image--398523727.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I'm still feeling a bit off physically, but it feels good to be back on trail. Canada here I come!!</div></div><div><br></div><div><b>Day 123</b></div><div><i>Miles 1729-1750</i></div><div><br></div><div>I wake up and realize that everything around me is wet. The sky is clear so it must be from the morning dew. I cowboy camped last night next to T-Rose and Mountain Spice. I put on my glasses and see that T-Rose is already packing up her things. Maybe I didn't get enough sleep while I was in Seattle, but I'm completely exhausted. What time is it? Does hiking with other people mean that I'm going to have to wake up earlier? Ugh.</div><div><br></div><div>The day is wonderfully cool and clear, but I'm totally wiped out. I felt so good yesterday, why am I so exhausted today?</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT6U7BTefnaomPAFNfVsc2uYNRtuCCN8pOZFvsy1UVIoKyNkSi8y1X6Q9v-uj-FTvBWRZ8sWawQFYXQp_qTbFbkdJtlphAyG3qXRziH2WFrhjlAhPEP94pDJuyN43BFMoiLiJwkhVld_P7/s640/blogger-image-1586791154.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT6U7BTefnaomPAFNfVsc2uYNRtuCCN8pOZFvsy1UVIoKyNkSi8y1X6Q9v-uj-FTvBWRZ8sWawQFYXQp_qTbFbkdJtlphAyG3qXRziH2WFrhjlAhPEP94pDJuyN43BFMoiLiJwkhVld_P7/s640/blogger-image-1586791154.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>We take our third break of the day by 9am on an outcropping of rocks with a view of Pilot Rock. While we're laughing and eating snacks I hear someone coming down the trail. It's Rocket Llama! </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihQguWA3tyDehda5yL3L0TRUIdMHLqi8xdqVVzRjyATYaGBJ0hrsa25Q4LQYWVL2dYAXo5NA1Kq50lPcMGnhC9UVfVboFvipkq_SddwiK2dWgSrrNm23l9dNn37mGhPfbUEZ_X5kynoxrR/s640/blogger-image-972230828.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihQguWA3tyDehda5yL3L0TRUIdMHLqi8xdqVVzRjyATYaGBJ0hrsa25Q4LQYWVL2dYAXo5NA1Kq50lPcMGnhC9UVfVboFvipkq_SddwiK2dWgSrrNm23l9dNn37mGhPfbUEZ_X5kynoxrR/s640/blogger-image-972230828.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Rocket Llama says that this is the point in the trail where people "get down to business" and start hiking more miles. We all hike on, but I'm having trouble keeping up. I used to hike faster than these same friends, but now my legs feel heavy and all I can think about is lying down. I trudge on, watching t<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">he valleys below, which are blanketed in thick white smoke.</span></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWNx2zGRw7pOpHJ61UPtX_jL9FTg_1D_nexc9XWJhP_NuMevEr-MCVHKRIIjGGZc2olsa03gZTcFoIyc3QjcvAT0Iu09gN0wv9zG6jsexMHiDHf_oV6BE-XHdFwsGc4JoK6BKwMlQj-ga3/s640/blogger-image-1870428596.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWNx2zGRw7pOpHJ61UPtX_jL9FTg_1D_nexc9XWJhP_NuMevEr-MCVHKRIIjGGZc2olsa03gZTcFoIyc3QjcvAT0Iu09gN0wv9zG6jsexMHiDHf_oV6BE-XHdFwsGc4JoK6BKwMlQj-ga3/s640/blogger-image-1870428596.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div><div>As the afternoon wears on I feel like I need to go back to sleep. T-Rose stays behind with me and we both nap for an hour in the shade. I wake up feeling just as exhausted as before, but I know that I need to keep moving. My diarrhea is back, but I try not to think about it as I count my steps, "one, two, three, one, two, three."</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisp0_oaIz4ThDOHEyxwFT9DoAIz7QC5_ggCmGMfA1QcCRDhJO4P4kkbXoY_1mmQvkwdCyNkq2rufj9qe1osvaY2lU0zIusl2DqocdnVbD6oe-hXBXtVDePXtaSKeEeVGl0llUljRKjO8Ed/s640/blogger-image--2131137308.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisp0_oaIz4ThDOHEyxwFT9DoAIz7QC5_ggCmGMfA1QcCRDhJO4P4kkbXoY_1mmQvkwdCyNkq2rufj9qe1osvaY2lU0zIusl2DqocdnVbD6oe-hXBXtVDePXtaSKeEeVGl0llUljRKjO8Ed/s640/blogger-image--2131137308.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div><div>Twenty two miles later we find a spot to end our day. We cowboy camp near a road with our friend Penguin and I set up my groundsheet under a big tree. Hopefully this tree will help keep the dew off of my bag. I'm so tired.</div><div><br></div><div><b>Day 124</b></div><div><i>Miles 1750-1751</i></div><div><br></div><div>I wake up, once again exhausted and reluctant to hike. There's a cafe down the road and I suggest that we have breakfast before moving on. T-Rose and Mountain Spice join me and we hitch down to the cafe with a firefighter stationed at a fire camp in the area.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPGfFlLPrBug8z9zc96gMyhiVo2u5d-31sFUsGsFA1j6KGYyvu82VWt9c6NkmXL_7RDNgsdt7MRytpoEB8aLshm5F-e4g-s02kFmHd4q-QTXsBejgdbNpbf_gw62mVMKw58bzYlBMklYz0/s640/blogger-image-483479856.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPGfFlLPrBug8z9zc96gMyhiVo2u5d-31sFUsGsFA1j6KGYyvu82VWt9c6NkmXL_7RDNgsdt7MRytpoEB8aLshm5F-e4g-s02kFmHd4q-QTXsBejgdbNpbf_gw62mVMKw58bzYlBMklYz0/s640/blogger-image-483479856.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I eat a burrito hoping that the calories will give me an energy boost. My stomach starts gurgling half way through the meal and I have to leave the table. My diarrhea is back with a vengeance. Booooo.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">After breakfast we decide to walk across a dry lake bed instead of taking the road back to the trailhead. The ground is squishy and smells like goose poop.</span></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_E8jMKP2-5zWLBl1AIesTo6xonDXkGAgcVy4LCv9vbUm7qT16R23nxR-JbpO-VPObP4UHh_CODPRtXvhqQuDK1l2t9cMuqZgkHFhgMH5bkbjWiI8nc5RaQv9cctLY7_qAUBhTxIw7yLVd/s640/blogger-image-1303024454.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_E8jMKP2-5zWLBl1AIesTo6xonDXkGAgcVy4LCv9vbUm7qT16R23nxR-JbpO-VPObP4UHh_CODPRtXvhqQuDK1l2t9cMuqZgkHFhgMH5bkbjWiI8nc5RaQv9cctLY7_qAUBhTxIw7yLVd/s640/blogger-image-1303024454.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Back on trail, T-Rose and I walk together for a few minutes before I start to feel nauseous. She suggests we hitch back to town and see a doctor. I don't want to turn around and we hike for another minute before I start sweating from the nausea. "OK," I say and we turn around and walk back to the road.</div><div><br></div><div>A very nice couple picks us up within a few minutes and offers to drive us to the hospital in Ashland. Since I don't have a primary care doctor they have to admit me through the emergency department.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj43moTjl4f_Zi6nK0zQ_Esr41zPOW5yjXyhJMyjTnhbc5tyb20WV2AIHijV7rr8o6knLyOlp-Bvhq8v2tryoiwy6XE4vVYlrFr8jjv8IA-ZBRkYeqjHgguat1hWDEZ-VakbbsHgiu43FAt/s640/blogger-image-2090865631.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj43moTjl4f_Zi6nK0zQ_Esr41zPOW5yjXyhJMyjTnhbc5tyb20WV2AIHijV7rr8o6knLyOlp-Bvhq8v2tryoiwy6XE4vVYlrFr8jjv8IA-ZBRkYeqjHgguat1hWDEZ-VakbbsHgiu43FAt/s640/blogger-image-2090865631.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>It feels wrong to lay in a hospital bed and the nurses treat me like a sick person. I don't feel sick, I'm just nauseous and I've had diarrhea for what feels like forever. </div><div><br></div><div>Dr. Jones grimaces when I tell him how long I've had diarrhea. He's concerned that the giardia medication didn't work and he thinks continuing with this level of physical exertion isn't helping either. He suggests I stop hiking, rest my body, and let them test me for giardia and other parasites.</div><div><br></div><div>I can't stop hiking. I mean, I can take a break, but I've already quit once and I didn't come all of the way back to the trail just to quit again. It's going to take at least 4-5 days to get the test results back and I tell Dr. Jones that I'll be back on trail by then. </div><div><br></div><div>T-Rose and I get a motel room in town and I take a 3 hour nap in the afternoon. T-Rose is adamant that I walk to Canada and her enthusiasm is contagious. After my nap we spend the rest of our night eating and playing Jenga before walking back to the motel.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi95Gg81vF7a55aQqDSsk1Kd5KoYyZONjvwCnV2MGMw_M8akrvktAfgqOpDWUyMEZHz4SPjjvMDmblWIukfcF2WtvyFLvLNO-epqI8oqUPNU7-wF2k_1sSKHANI0kLZhkoUvwjB8gsHUa-w/s640/blogger-image-1757659465.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi95Gg81vF7a55aQqDSsk1Kd5KoYyZONjvwCnV2MGMw_M8akrvktAfgqOpDWUyMEZHz4SPjjvMDmblWIukfcF2WtvyFLvLNO-epqI8oqUPNU7-wF2k_1sSKHANI0kLZhkoUvwjB8gsHUa-w/s640/blogger-image-1757659465.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div><div><b>Day 125</b></div><div><i>Zero day</i></div><div><br></div></div><div>I'm up early to drop a sample off at the hospital. I'm still exhausted and the walk from the bus stop to the hospital door leaves me feeling weak. Today I feel helpless. I want to walk to Canada so badly, but feeling like I'm at 10% of my normal energy makes the idea seem nearly impossible. I'm annoyed at being sick, I'm annoyed at feeling weak, and I would give anything to have my old energy back.</div><div><br></div><div>It does feel great to be back around T-Rose. We spend out afternoon eating and resupplying, exchanging trail gossip and laughing at what we've been through already.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdj5cUdE688UjqF6gcQWSWhFEn_i-2CGFtY_q1YWnYdUP_R6uchc4V-mBz_pIbOmzrOq3BeQg4XMT3pLaFi1fNQiY8eCXrc7zOFtz14zH8MMnhrNpxC3Qzc5xeKWeJCRJc0EkGwErdKe1J/s640/blogger-image--653221490.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdj5cUdE688UjqF6gcQWSWhFEn_i-2CGFtY_q1YWnYdUP_R6uchc4V-mBz_pIbOmzrOq3BeQg4XMT3pLaFi1fNQiY8eCXrc7zOFtz14zH8MMnhrNpxC3Qzc5xeKWeJCRJc0EkGwErdKe1J/s640/blogger-image--653221490.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Tomorrow T-Rose and I are planning on spending the day hitch hiking from Ashland to Crater Lake. We'll be skipping some trail miles for various reasons (road access, fire danger, etc), but I'm genuinely excited to give this hiking thing another shot. For now though, I'm going to sleep until I can't sleep any more. </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860000285673806917.post-55420840891378162392014-07-26T07:15:00.001-07:002014-08-05T08:48:58.178-07:00PCT Days 112-118: Etna to Ashland<div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><b>Day 112</b></span></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><i>Miles 1606-1624</i></span></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I'm hung over from the threes beers I had last night. Moxie is up at 6am and headed out to breakfast with the gang, but I stay in bed and pull the covers to my chin. This motel bed is too comfortable to leave at 7am. I sleep another hour, take a long shower, then pack my bag and walk go the local espresso place.</span></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I'm back on the trail by 10am and arrive at the trailhead at the same time as 10 other hikers. I know them all, but that's a lot of hikers to follow up the trail so I slow my pace and fall a comfortable distance behind.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I stop for lunch at Fischer Lake, jumping in after eating my meal of meat, cheese, and bagel. The lake is filled with these cute little salamander tadpole things. I'm not sure exactly what they are, but they play along the shoreline twisting and rolling in the water.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div></span></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggow0PO2BLyTbDfnIFrsbIVeFNzKdUswxxVbvC-ixVPYVX5Q9KIQgZE3LfusOC1ih68uAHn5GdCrQ3ZTgBsDkGXt8EChya-WTKs5pnfxS5tfkkUf2AC3zKzTi-TkClwhd8LtlbYh58VBA6/s640/blogger-image--2090023043.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggow0PO2BLyTbDfnIFrsbIVeFNzKdUswxxVbvC-ixVPYVX5Q9KIQgZE3LfusOC1ih68uAHn5GdCrQ3ZTgBsDkGXt8EChya-WTKs5pnfxS5tfkkUf2AC3zKzTi-TkClwhd8LtlbYh58VBA6/s640/blogger-image--2090023043.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Further up the trail I find a nice camping spot, secluded on a high ridge. From inside my tent I can see both east and west into the surrounding valleys. I sit and watch the sunset from inside my comfortable tent.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDDl8XDgLuAPZFi-l5v1EageXxb-5liN0CKdDoKhIH2Z54CGIn9jDVNNtpO-tWh-0EsnmfJBsqkSA8YGHRreYMKCsxYNyAmVU565CT61Ur0GDO55TuhfPoofhPLxiIkV0uJSY9xUOBKbvw/s640/blogger-image-214140304.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDDl8XDgLuAPZFi-l5v1EageXxb-5liN0CKdDoKhIH2Z54CGIn9jDVNNtpO-tWh-0EsnmfJBsqkSA8YGHRreYMKCsxYNyAmVU565CT61Ur0GDO55TuhfPoofhPLxiIkV0uJSY9xUOBKbvw/s640/blogger-image-214140304.jpg"></a></div></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh85VR4fMiYa4c__LnnbETXQi2SSnp3JNbwG3uLxjREzC4qzS1PPCQ06OPqorKvLia2t5OLWezyJh0XEvPMLR2O-MIRy74XCbQvHuBa0Ffsh4dsvVWuK2qW9GnTFcvux-TuiKZbYvX9lplo/s640/blogger-image--535834452.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh85VR4fMiYa4c__LnnbETXQi2SSnp3JNbwG3uLxjREzC4qzS1PPCQ06OPqorKvLia2t5OLWezyJh0XEvPMLR2O-MIRy74XCbQvHuBa0Ffsh4dsvVWuK2qW9GnTFcvux-TuiKZbYvX9lplo/s640/blogger-image--535834452.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMyuIBnPS_gFWLBdlVD6trm2OQMSjUEwLsoG75RFxfo-RtV2LTQc1aqZ8zksJSxVtJENO_o7M5QCIJ_vlhgrY6E98_5esY5OBB3Bn2YfwzgQ_sTCFpipzgUAaq82NCAdKKyknMOgN4nXaN/s640/blogger-image--1756351332.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMyuIBnPS_gFWLBdlVD6trm2OQMSjUEwLsoG75RFxfo-RtV2LTQc1aqZ8zksJSxVtJENO_o7M5QCIJ_vlhgrY6E98_5esY5OBB3Bn2YfwzgQ_sTCFpipzgUAaq82NCAdKKyknMOgN4nXaN/s640/blogger-image--1756351332.jpg"></a></div></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><b>Day 113</b></span></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><i>Miles 1624-1644</i></span></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I wake up as the sun rises and have enough energy to take this picture, sticking my arm outside of my tent, before falling back asleep.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs6tf-Z_eYnXsqHf6B5Mvx_H15fVX2NTVg9_pvvnBNueFtwqDt69u9xKId4KvfOjbAqtYqdwzgRm4rEvJAYEILGJ2GJSDiMwmx6eMDDS0E533fxWP_bJ53wvSVXppMc2n_F0O9R6gtk-o-/s640/blogger-image--296870677.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs6tf-Z_eYnXsqHf6B5Mvx_H15fVX2NTVg9_pvvnBNueFtwqDt69u9xKId4KvfOjbAqtYqdwzgRm4rEvJAYEILGJ2GJSDiMwmx6eMDDS0E533fxWP_bJ53wvSVXppMc2n_F0O9R6gtk-o-/s640/blogger-image--296870677.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">It's a cloudy day. I get lost on a side trail looking for a spring and spend 45 minutes trying to get back to the trail. I get back to the trail soaked in sweat and covered in bugs and plant debris from bushwhacking up a large hill. I sit for a minute to calm down and catch my breath before sucking it up and moving on.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVjAXpBvkiy0X5PY0_2Tiy3UyNghdnMzy_V8tMM90SgVN0ntpD12kv2n6qnLX-49WupK1KT5qrSYEPhptsB3gIi1iB8RfZAdhKLYzAVMvdoHXSZMvVyizKUU6MGrLPm3peMVE7FjBmo9KR/s640/blogger-image--837401018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVjAXpBvkiy0X5PY0_2Tiy3UyNghdnMzy_V8tMM90SgVN0ntpD12kv2n6qnLX-49WupK1KT5qrSYEPhptsB3gIi1iB8RfZAdhKLYzAVMvdoHXSZMvVyizKUU6MGrLPm3peMVE7FjBmo9KR/s640/blogger-image--837401018.jpg"></a></div></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">There are many long stretches today without water, but the water I do find is mostly cold, clean water coming straight from a hillside. Sometimes they are piped springs and sometimes people set up little systems like this leaf/funnel to make getting water a bit easier.</div><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZnwIqS1TFWG1EVnmM4_Mf0qjDlJaUnBLk6U-s02LlUtCHfAvCLWtDszOCwma74EH1uhWxyZyImJcNMxGDmg-_DN216nt6elthlsfT2hDIE9wqOH1Y-5FhcyOdblFYGWNOuyQVYPNY3efz/s640/blogger-image--1849335113.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZnwIqS1TFWG1EVnmM4_Mf0qjDlJaUnBLk6U-s02LlUtCHfAvCLWtDszOCwma74EH1uhWxyZyImJcNMxGDmg-_DN216nt6elthlsfT2hDIE9wqOH1Y-5FhcyOdblFYGWNOuyQVYPNY3efz/s640/blogger-image--1849335113.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">There was a 40% chance of rain yesterday and a 20% chance today, but it stays dry all day despite the massive clouds rolling by.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkXoyNzwg7EaZZzuhDibajkffRewmSyvzSh_zNn3rGiDqISYaMCa444pqi643pLcOHNSEyaqxepZN-8vnLslz8GnlMCSDIsSZAxjKmaKAoMZLJrBKE3xvTLCRPBDwI7-qVxaJcPeVDg4D7/s640/blogger-image--806905036.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkXoyNzwg7EaZZzuhDibajkffRewmSyvzSh_zNn3rGiDqISYaMCa444pqi643pLcOHNSEyaqxepZN-8vnLslz8GnlMCSDIsSZAxjKmaKAoMZLJrBKE3xvTLCRPBDwI7-qVxaJcPeVDg4D7/s640/blogger-image--806905036.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The sunset tonight looks like a painting. It's difficult to sit and enjoy the view as I'm having a great deal of intestinal discomfort, but I stay long enough to take a photo before finishing the last mile or so to camp. I've been having stomach issues for a few days now, but today it's getting much worse. Ugh.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8nZZ8fqk6pFiro1RLcyYMbqJ9gtwM9-8mQKTXiBDHIgioWO6JHmAxM8vTDnSx2dihZaHrPe3nFXOt55vUW2o9OJRhkotjB8gygbbiLbF-LB9a1vmbXf5C2fDnGBowuI-JOXcuvO4SvfK4/s640/blogger-image-1607974831.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8nZZ8fqk6pFiro1RLcyYMbqJ9gtwM9-8mQKTXiBDHIgioWO6JHmAxM8vTDnSx2dihZaHrPe3nFXOt55vUW2o9OJRhkotjB8gygbbiLbF-LB9a1vmbXf5C2fDnGBowuI-JOXcuvO4SvfK4/s640/blogger-image-1607974831.jpg"></a></div></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><b>Day 114</b></span></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><i>Miles 1644- 1662</i></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Today I drop from 7,000 feet in elevation to less than 1,500 feet. The trip into and out of Seiad Valley is known for being hot, humid, and long. I'm so close to Oregon and it feels like California is refusing to let go of me. </div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjPvbAsDlYBS4GGmgFvZK2o945StVtSLVQy8BQz80ErK2fxSl_lBgDa8Q3RuurIvQrC-DjrnwnAofeSGS-ZsobM2RpuWGDX-3rlLzmqgnhbTlgxBnehRVIYa58k68gtWzooaS8LfniOhpY/s640/blogger-image--1341825485.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjPvbAsDlYBS4GGmgFvZK2o945StVtSLVQy8BQz80ErK2fxSl_lBgDa8Q3RuurIvQrC-DjrnwnAofeSGS-ZsobM2RpuWGDX-3rlLzmqgnhbTlgxBnehRVIYa58k68gtWzooaS8LfniOhpY/s640/blogger-image--1341825485.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Down I go, into the valley. Up top the air is cool and there's a strong breeze, but when the heat hits towards the bottom, it hits hard. Within an hour of starting the descent it feels like the temperature has skyrocketed. The air is sticky and still as I reach the bottom of the valley.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaBB9Gr3XC9t8MMF5jPYN87Vx6wMLMX2_swDkLj7LZ8qq5EnqFq1HMyEjgukInlvZydsZC-dVLcIlDq5HZKfEGC7BqH1qwjm89GIqTZR_RsFT_4H7XkaDawnl-eLimzYuAbZr-blZXHEaG/s640/blogger-image--1753526990.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaBB9Gr3XC9t8MMF5jPYN87Vx6wMLMX2_swDkLj7LZ8qq5EnqFq1HMyEjgukInlvZydsZC-dVLcIlDq5HZKfEGC7BqH1qwjm89GIqTZR_RsFT_4H7XkaDawnl-eLimzYuAbZr-blZXHEaG/s640/blogger-image--1753526990.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">It's a six mile road walk from the bottom of the valley tot he town of Seid Valley. I walk four miles on the asphalt, the temperature surpassing 100. I start to feel dizzy before a nice woman pulls over and asks if I need a ride. I say yes without even really considering it and she drives me the last 2 miles into town.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Everyone is here, lounging under the trees trying to escape the sun. I feel dehydrated and weak.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgba94UezIut2hqyRbj3Akkpveoxr2EQeAG29U2p3n1CtEMVNprW25sw9AJXfH70NsHBlr5IQZvb3M0DFVyvyXlJCjZOmHwRnkAeYgQ0DocI_fk8FwHZC72uXsrBz9j1HBikkOFpX6XoETk/s640/blogger-image-625117799.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgba94UezIut2hqyRbj3Akkpveoxr2EQeAG29U2p3n1CtEMVNprW25sw9AJXfH70NsHBlr5IQZvb3M0DFVyvyXlJCjZOmHwRnkAeYgQ0DocI_fk8FwHZC72uXsrBz9j1HBikkOFpX6XoETk/s640/blogger-image-625117799.jpg"></a></div></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">The post office, grocery store, and restaurant all exist in the same building here in Seiad Valley. I eat a lunch of fries and Pepsi as I'm still feeling off physically and can't eat much else, then I resupply at the store.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">The store is filled with stickers and t-shirts with the emblem of the State of Jefferson. Apparently a few counties in southern Oregon and northern Califirnia have tried to form their own state unsuccessfully, but the dream still lives here in Seiad Valley.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXJTYrbaBWOwtVftAk2iDUuzDExHR-R2YJ_CZjr4WDyh5DhVoxKy_Dlxh5HqUSkqVaINHICS7y1zhb18sXv5GGX0wRluTOHDDQoQO1Tzb5avHVBUbYUH246DW4ogS_wmh5ujoD_VUkJNX0/s640/blogger-image-1615895433.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXJTYrbaBWOwtVftAk2iDUuzDExHR-R2YJ_CZjr4WDyh5DhVoxKy_Dlxh5HqUSkqVaINHICS7y1zhb18sXv5GGX0wRluTOHDDQoQO1Tzb5avHVBUbYUH246DW4ogS_wmh5ujoD_VUkJNX0/s640/blogger-image-1615895433.jpg"></a></div></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I'm exhausted and my body hurts, so I set up camp in the field next to Princess and Mr Sandals. I chat with everyone for a while before crawling into my tent and trying to sleep.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><b>Day 115</b></span></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><i>Miles 1662-1677</i></span></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">It's 2am and I'm wide awake. My insides are gurgling and I toss and turn in the uncomfortable heat. I've been denying it for a few days, but I can't deny it any longer; I have giardia. Or at least I have some stomach issue beyond the normal hiker-stomach where diarrhea comes and goes. Cramps, inhuman amounts of gas, queasiness, lack of appetite, liquid diarrhea, I toss and turn on my air mattress trying to find a comfortable position that lessens the stomach cramping.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I'm 37 miles from the Oregon border and, honestly, I'm ready to go home. I'm sick and lonely and out of money and patience.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I go to the bathroom, thank god I'm somewhere that has a bathroom, and an hour later I'm still here. Why am I still doing this, I ask myself, hiking alone, sick, spending money that I don't have. I've been hiking for 4 months, almost through the entire state of California, and I'm not having fun anymore.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">It's 3:30am and I know the others are planning on getting up at 4 to start the big ascent out of Seiad Valley. I go back to my tent and fall into a hot, restless sleep. </div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I wake up with a pounding headache. It's 6:45am and the restaurant opens at 7. Everyone is gone, except for Strawberry, her sister Unicorn, Lighthouse, and Mung. I should get up and eat something.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">The cold orange juice is perfect for my pounding head, but when my food arrives I immediately want to vomit. I've never felt so hungry and nauseous at the same time. I eat my french toast and my bacon. I try to eat the eggs, but I just can't. My stomach gurgles and I have to find a bathroom. I'm still thinking about leaving the PCT. </div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I talk to Strawberry in front of the restaurant. Her family is picking her and her sister up in Ashland and driving them home to Seattle. They would love to give me a ride. Maybe we could just hitch to Ashland from here and skip the next 65 miles.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">No, I think, I need to make it to the Oregon/Washington border. That way, if I decide to leave the trail, at least I'll have completed the PCT in California. I tell myself that I'll hike for at least a few more days. I take the giardia medication I've been carrying.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">The three of us hike out together. I still feel light headed and we decide to take a road walk that has more water and cuts the climb in half. Two miles into the road walk my stomach starts cramping again. I sit down on the side of the road and lay back on my pack. </div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Thirty minutes later, still on the ground, we hear a car driving up the road. Strawberry jumps up and sticks out her thumb. A middle-aged woman pulls over, rolls down her window, "Really?" she asks. I laugh uncomfortably, "could you give us a ride to the trail?"</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">"I've never seen PCT hikers hitch to the trail from here, but if you don't want to walk I'll give you a ride."</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">We thank her and get in the car feeling a bit embarrassed by her comment. The driver ends up being a very sweet lady with long silver hair and she apologizes for being rude as she drives us up the bumpy road. She's had a tough day and I can sympathize.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">The sweet lady drives Strawberry, Unicorn, and I to a trailhead where the road meets back up with the trail. It's quiet and shady, so I sit under a big pine tree. My head hurts again.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkR2IpqueK-KeHWN9Lm_d0-nnkRapSoHqiyYVYnfEGF2ejO-qqvApKldCvfhCzRuE0OzM3ydGeo2OXN2t2GejzK3Y-A3STH2uCa1R2iUQ8G49E9vIL6qNN6aMlEeygSVKN3gR9rCiqZdJs/s640/blogger-image--2085184095.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkR2IpqueK-KeHWN9Lm_d0-nnkRapSoHqiyYVYnfEGF2ejO-qqvApKldCvfhCzRuE0OzM3ydGeo2OXN2t2GejzK3Y-A3STH2uCa1R2iUQ8G49E9vIL6qNN6aMlEeygSVKN3gR9rCiqZdJs/s640/blogger-image--2085184095.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Princess hikes onto the road a few minutes later after finishing the big climb in 6 hours. I skipped 15 miles of the PCT and Princess teases me for hitching, as do Mr Sandals and Firecracker. I feel guilty. I think about finding a way back down to the valley so I can hike the climb tomorrow and do this without gaps, but my head and stomach disagree. I just need to lay down for a while.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Eventually everyone leaves the road to hike a few more miles before setting up camp. I feel like all my energy has been zapped out of me. I've barely eaten today so I set up my tent and cook myself dinner.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Lighthouse and Mung hike into my camp as I'm tossing and turning on my mattress. I don't get up to say hello because my head is still pounding and I hope they'll just keep hiking and leave me alone.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">"Glitter?" Lighthouse asks tentatively.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> I sit up and I can feel the blood pounding in my head, behind my eyes. "Yep."</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">"How's it going?"</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I tell him the truth.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">"Do you always hike alone" he asks.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">"Um, sort of I guess. I loosely hike around the same people, but most of the time I'm alone."</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">"Do you enjoy it?" Why is he asking me this questions?</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">"I mean, I guess I enjoy it sometimes."</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">"Oh, OK, I was just wondering."</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Like the others, they walk out of camp to hike a few more miles. I sit in my tent thinking about what just happened. Do I really like being alone as much as I made it sound? No. Maybe part of the reason that going home is so attractive is that I feel like I'm lacking real community out here. I've met lots of wonderful people, but I still feel very alone.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I take two Benedryl to help me sleep and stare at the sky waiting for them to take effect. I still think I'd like to go home. I hear a car pull up to the camp site.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">"Do you want a beer?" Someone shouts from the window. I sit up, head still pulsing although a little less intense now. I yell, "if you were to ask me that question any of the one hundred and fourteen days of this trip before today I would probably start to cry and tell you that you're an angel, but right now I'm sick and that just sounds like death." The couple in the car laugh and a woman gets out from the passenger side door. "Here," she says and hands me a bottle of Bud Light Lime, "save it for later."</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">The couple introduce themselves as Chelsea and Cory; they're out here from Ashland on a day hike. They ask me about my trip and how I'm feeling now. I have nothing to lose, so I tell them the truth.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">"An hour ago I was hoping that someone would drive up that road and give me a ride to Ashland so I could recover in a real bed. I didn't think it was possible, but here you are. Now that you're here though and I could just ask you, I'm realizing that I don't want to hitch into Ashland. I have everything I need right here: water, food, and medicine. And I want to hike into Oregon. I've come almost 1700 miles to get here and Oregon is so close."</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">She laughs, maybe because I have verbal diarrhea and I don't know her or maybe because she totally gets it. "OK, we won't even offer to take you into town. You can do this. You're so close."</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Chelsea and Cory- If you're reading this (I gave you my blog so I hope you are) THANK YOU for the encouragement. I'm going to drink this lime soda at the California/Oregon border and it's going to be delicious, but it was really your friendliness and encouragement that meant so much to me. It's funny what a tiny bit of kindness and warmth can do for someone else's day.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiagkVz0kc7mDe6sHOLKHQL2voQHf3dD-Olol_m6lVvp7P5DeMHHsldKJOxvl9vt2vAxN1jq6zeqzVgJwsluoMdkCZJhN3TpRjmtB0nzgSTtAzyRyb7WTW3jb7moNJnPhusWcQjvmP0QqSb/s640/blogger-image--1267074835.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiagkVz0kc7mDe6sHOLKHQL2voQHf3dD-Olol_m6lVvp7P5DeMHHsldKJOxvl9vt2vAxN1jq6zeqzVgJwsluoMdkCZJhN3TpRjmtB0nzgSTtAzyRyb7WTW3jb7moNJnPhusWcQjvmP0QqSb/s640/blogger-image--1267074835.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">The Benedryl finally takes effect and I drift off to sleep while the sun is still shining.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><b>Day 116</b></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><i>Miles 1677-1714</i></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I wake up in a Benedryl induced haze and pack my things. I start walking slowly and pass Strawberry and Unicorn in a few miles. I keep walking, but I feel like a zombie. I have no energy, no appetite, and I've already gone to the bathroom 4 times by 10am.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I manage to walk 10 miles, 15 miles, 20 miles and my feet don't hurt. What's up with that? I force myself to eat every half an hour, but on two occasions I overdo it and vomit on the side of the trail. There's a storm coming in and I can see lightning in the distance.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">As I get close to the border, California makes a few last attempts to maintain its grasp on me. It starts to rain and lightning strikes the forest in front of me. I see a fire about a mile off of the trail. I puke again.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWvOyx0O0x9fInrCZIiIx4nMxoNMkcnkWtFyXsJQ2dcXUjLH7WD2UCEMXf-LkLOFOonfR5o_7w4sAeg_PcuE3Nmuxx_aAtRC4Pv75mz8Q6OOOSgOvD77LPOzVDN-FA9h7QVvRu5-V8kFfI/s640/blogger-image-848542380.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWvOyx0O0x9fInrCZIiIx4nMxoNMkcnkWtFyXsJQ2dcXUjLH7WD2UCEMXf-LkLOFOonfR5o_7w4sAeg_PcuE3Nmuxx_aAtRC4Pv75mz8Q6OOOSgOvD77LPOzVDN-FA9h7QVvRu5-V8kFfI/s640/blogger-image-848542380.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I come around a corner and there it is, the Oregon/California border. It's still raining and I have to go to the bathroom, so I snap a quick picture and scribble something in the trail register before running off into the woods.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_nyrSqFn9rqROZtPNOo5hIkQGvjfu78JxwWDv9-Op_e2-myW9pJBu4WL5xPd8goN0kYrMTCtHJAim67hkuNOCFxg1UiyUJrzMNauJYbSF3iajvA_I_kpRrhuUaE5luRLJ9h8JwwtowUK0/s640/blogger-image--1450953.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_nyrSqFn9rqROZtPNOo5hIkQGvjfu78JxwWDv9-Op_e2-myW9pJBu4WL5xPd8goN0kYrMTCtHJAim67hkuNOCFxg1UiyUJrzMNauJYbSF3iajvA_I_kpRrhuUaE5luRLJ9h8JwwtowUK0/s640/blogger-image--1450953.jpg"></a></div></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhigrKFDveCxpXiIi352DkACIKHGqUXn8btlu3ZDgnPPQ1msA7zu7oMbClaKXAE31MBRXcFUx188de9Wu2dgmoEmu2n2kc-WzTajrBI8nc3h_kFI3CfuabJ2hEE1I7s_SH4POmQcHgj5xa1/s640/blogger-image--1648800307.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhigrKFDveCxpXiIi352DkACIKHGqUXn8btlu3ZDgnPPQ1msA7zu7oMbClaKXAE31MBRXcFUx188de9Wu2dgmoEmu2n2kc-WzTajrBI8nc3h_kFI3CfuabJ2hEE1I7s_SH4POmQcHgj5xa1/s640/blogger-image--1648800307.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I keep hiking until I reach a high ridge and have cell service. I call my dad to ask him to help me find a motel in Ashland. Everything seems to be booked because it's going to be the weekend and they have a Shakespeare festival going on. I get his voicemail. I leave a vague message and ask him to call me back. It starts to rain again so I move on and decide to camp once I get better cell signal.</div></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1GUgZbHM4jMB3hff2XPui4tFFqPQkZCdkSA11_wVQ9twota3BZif8QORoVrtc_pwIgAdh7gyh_Q1sbloO5A0w9qsLsZeiMg32h0NaHxPXxhHxdA-nr08Q536BHk800I4NYMqwABo1B3B8/s640/blogger-image-1138430786.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1GUgZbHM4jMB3hff2XPui4tFFqPQkZCdkSA11_wVQ9twota3BZif8QORoVrtc_pwIgAdh7gyh_Q1sbloO5A0w9qsLsZeiMg32h0NaHxPXxhHxdA-nr08Q536BHk800I4NYMqwABo1B3B8/s640/blogger-image-1138430786.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I leave my phone on, constantly checking to see if I have any signal. I check at one point and see that I've received a flood of text messages and voicemails from the past few days, but I can't figure out when I passed a spot with a clear signal. I see that my dad left me a voicemail. He's worried. Damn, I think, now I really need to find cell signal tonight.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">As I hike I see 6 more fires. Wow! Oregon is burning.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG3n7aju9OKuAWFXmKjugwLApIHB9hXx8zZqPMtXafnlYAh14W1-y471YPMsRdgRBEtzJ4u_Wj3lkDfsX9VYnbi8tmRVu5Nota-hT3XwFPVQiCpeCeQWzMQ_CTkyKV8ydsV77lKWXItXdm/s640/blogger-image-1510174469.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG3n7aju9OKuAWFXmKjugwLApIHB9hXx8zZqPMtXafnlYAh14W1-y471YPMsRdgRBEtzJ4u_Wj3lkDfsX9VYnbi8tmRVu5Nota-hT3XwFPVQiCpeCeQWzMQ_CTkyKV8ydsV77lKWXItXdm/s640/blogger-image-1510174469.jpg"></a></div></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I hike and hike and hike. I pass the Germans, the Bubbies, and even Lighthouse and Mung. It's getting dark and I still have no signal. I have to hike until I get signal. I don't want my dad worrying all night. </div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Finally, 37 miles into the craziest day of the entire trail I get some cell signal. It's 11pm and I throw my backpack down, set up my tent, and quickly jump inside. My dad answers on the first ring.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><b>Day 117</b></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><i>Miles 1714-1727</i></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I wake up today and know that it's my last day on trail. I've hit a wall and I'm ready to go back to Seattle to recover. I feel good about it. I came out here for the experience and an experience is what I found. I feel like this journey has come to a natural end and there is no need to prolong it.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">A few miles into the day I stumble on some trail magic and write a goodbye note to my friends behind me.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK7Q9oWcGDfIZzWMqim48QomQNSmbebjwP31Ds2Nskwys8voRxKjaFDoaWlrjI0JoQezqc2Gaa7m4WvcLFOptKidPlsRjf2ObbnlDNKAneisCk8IQm-rMvy_oJ6xTscRl8xAY3xdzzdhgN/s640/blogger-image-1044879211.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK7Q9oWcGDfIZzWMqim48QomQNSmbebjwP31Ds2Nskwys8voRxKjaFDoaWlrjI0JoQezqc2Gaa7m4WvcLFOptKidPlsRjf2ObbnlDNKAneisCk8IQm-rMvy_oJ6xTscRl8xAY3xdzzdhgN/s640/blogger-image-1044879211.jpg"></a></div></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I make it to Ashland a few hours later, exhausted and sick, and check into my motel room. Sleep.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">In the evening I meet Moxie and her mom for dinner at the brewery in town. My appetite seems to be slowly coming back and I am able to eat an entire meal. That's a good sign, maybe the giardia medication is working after all.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><b>Day 118</b></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><i>The end?</i></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Ashland is an adorable town and I spend a few hours in the afternoon walking around downtown. I'm feeling nostalgic and a little sad to leave the trail, but I'm still confident about my decision.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">In the evening I have dinner with the trail family that I have been with for the last 1,000 miles: the Germans (Princess and Mr Sandals), the Bubbies (Firecracker a and Tidy Camper), and Moxie. There are a few tears, but if think everyone can see that I've made my decision.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5QZY8CKldho6-IvtJrE_Aub_-FML0hhnVmK3HmmFsdCFC8cN7ep7NkMMO6NVBuz0t0yXwZ-J31PBwoQCJZ7idAPXBYNhYfFrYZX9jGolGiJOOMmxTu0FcvDBeZbavxFuw6n8oKlCPNaxc/s640/blogger-image--1176097791.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5QZY8CKldho6-IvtJrE_Aub_-FML0hhnVmK3HmmFsdCFC8cN7ep7NkMMO6NVBuz0t0yXwZ-J31PBwoQCJZ7idAPXBYNhYfFrYZX9jGolGiJOOMmxTu0FcvDBeZbavxFuw6n8oKlCPNaxc/s640/blogger-image--1176097791.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; clear: both;">After dinner we all get some ice cream, say our goodbyes, and I go back to my motel room. I'm still exhausted, but my diarrhea isn't as bad and I'm HUNGRY. I haven't been this hungry in such a long time I had forgotten what it felt like. </div><div class="separator" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; clear: both;">As I lay in my bed, packed and ready to be picked up by Strawberry and her family in the morning, I start to question leaving the trail for the first time in a few days. Suddenly I feel less confident about my decision. I imagine myself feeling healthy again and wonder, would I have the desire to finish the trail if I had my energy back? </div><div class="separator" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; clear: both;">I think about who would be affected if I change my mind and decide to stay on trail. I write emails to my dad, my supervisors at work, and a few others that I've already told that I'm returning to Seattle, but I don't send the emails yet. Writing to these people is helping me sort through my thoughts.</div><div class="separator" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; clear: both;">"Dear Dad,</div><div class="separator" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I've decided to continue hiking. As you can tell, I've hit a wall on the PCT. After being sick this past week it felt impossible to walk back into the heat and climb another mountain alone and tired. I feel like I've reached the complete end of my rope and I'm ready to return to the life I enjoy and the people I love in Seattle. <br><br>As I sit here though, packed and ready to leave, I feel the desire returning. I've wanted to do this for a long time and, although I'm lonely and uncomfortable right now, I know that nothing is permanent. I think I need to continue on this journey despite my temporary, albeit intense, discomfort. I want to make it to Canada.<br><br>I think the giardia medication worked, as last night I could eat a large meal and today I had a semi-normal BM. Too much information, I know, but I'm starting to feel healthier and that is SUCH a good thing.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I love you and thank you for your constant love and support.<br><br></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">-Rob"</span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I call one of my best friends then my boyfriend and they are supportive of my decision. I take a deep breath, go back into my email account, and send the emails I've written to my friends and family. I'm hiking to Canada. I feel giddy and excited, but my body is still exhausted and I fall asleep with my phone still in my hand.</span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860000285673806917.post-6006927020090028402014-07-18T16:33:00.001-07:002014-08-02T13:39:18.272-07:00PCT Days 104-111: Shasta City to Etna<div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><b>Day 104</b></span></div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div><div><i>Zero Day</i></div></div><div><br></div><div>My dad pulls into Ash Camp at 8am sharp in a shiny red rental car. I pack up, say goodbye to Medicine Man, and happily jump in the oh-so-clean passenger seat. Off for a whole day! Yippee!</div><div><br></div><div>First thing- errands. We stop at the grocery store (9 days is a lot of food), post office (where we pick up Moxie, Acorn and Estero trying to hitch), and three different outfitter stores in town (why doesn't anyone carry 100% deet). </div><div><br></div><div>I got new shoes today! Good thing too, my feet were starting to poke through the old ones I got in Kennedy Meadows. Almost 800 miles on these babies!</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4nfjQV4Dt363tZFrGQbZyV7Qk0_iNIp1eFBq2c663B9nE15s8cqEcjZLOLulVQtJO_08WOD4pj-U6RkAmgPtNKOqWcH4CO67mSp4FhfaZpXIXtKaEeaxjJGpaIp1ZfZSYH6vRu21rScaa/s640/blogger-image--1716411381.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4nfjQV4Dt363tZFrGQbZyV7Qk0_iNIp1eFBq2c663B9nE15s8cqEcjZLOLulVQtJO_08WOD4pj-U6RkAmgPtNKOqWcH4CO67mSp4FhfaZpXIXtKaEeaxjJGpaIp1ZfZSYH6vRu21rScaa/s640/blogger-image--1716411381.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Sometimes zero days are more work than relaxation, but today is a perfect zero day. I finish all my town chores by 2pm and even get espresso. Glitter looooooves espresso!</div></span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div><br></div><div>I'm really excited to hike with GlitterPop tomorrow. We're planning on hiking 13 miles or so and camping at a river. He'll turn around and hike back out the next day while I continue on my 9-day stretch to Ashland.</div><div><br></div><i>Day 105</i></span><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><i>Miles 1476-1490</i></font></div><div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Wake up, shower, pack, Burger King, Subway, coffee, we are at the trailhead by 9:30am. It's another hot, humid day. I let GlitterPop take the lead. Thirteen miles sounds like half a day to me, but dad is a bit nervous.</div><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7FemplUbacEcPcZZ_73aAIKlhL1JUqJ60PMPrfu_QOWcTDZmb_jWat7qJFvpPthvuVN_cHlftX5Xw0568AX7wyudkKEycsiKL0ZCBPOWukcsGCY-Wevzt4kSr6tL-iMZ3PfpJImZ-sZMH/s640/blogger-image-1364558094.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7FemplUbacEcPcZZ_73aAIKlhL1JUqJ60PMPrfu_QOWcTDZmb_jWat7qJFvpPthvuVN_cHlftX5Xw0568AX7wyudkKEycsiKL0ZCBPOWukcsGCY-Wevzt4kSr6tL-iMZ3PfpJImZ-sZMH/s640/blogger-image-1364558094.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">When I was a kid I hated hiking. My dad took my brothers and I on backpacking trips every year and he always had to force me to go. </div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">"My backpack is too heavy."</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">"I'm tired."</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">"How much further?"</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I thought he was a slave driver. </div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">"Stop complaining."</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">"Keep walking."</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">"It's just around the corner," he'd say. </div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I knew he was lying. It's not just around the corner and this isn't fair and everything sucks. </div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Now that I'm addicted to hiking and he's getting older, the tables have turned. He thinks it's too hot and wants to take a break. "How much further," he asks. I smile, "it's just around the corner."</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">We arrive at camp by 4:30pm. We're planning on camping near a beautiful river with a perfect swimming hole, but GlitterPop has a different idea. </div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">He's not excited about hiking the same hot, humid miles tomorrow. He's thinking about trying to hitch back to his car instead. I imagine spending another night in a motel room and I happily encourage him. He quickly finds some other folks at the trailhead and asks for a ride.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">GlitterPop picks me up an hour later, plus two other hikers who are injured and want to go into Shasta early. I wasn't expecting this trip back to Shasta, but I can't complain about another round of beer and a soft bed.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">We get back to Shasta by the early evening, chow down on some pizza at a local pizza place, and head to a hotel to crash.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPnn8R91PXb7ToQzItXK4z-lWpwS3oeeSJfI2fyGS5HYeV0QV6YTEtWy7-x7xYyBsesTjHgsqNm7H63nH3LbdhTso8s71NkdPS4IIWZSn3k6ne-sA41sMjcq9-X7rbnXYcb4Moxir07QCJ/s640/blogger-image--56946176.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPnn8R91PXb7ToQzItXK4z-lWpwS3oeeSJfI2fyGS5HYeV0QV6YTEtWy7-x7xYyBsesTjHgsqNm7H63nH3LbdhTso8s71NkdPS4IIWZSn3k6ne-sA41sMjcq9-X7rbnXYcb4Moxir07QCJ/s640/blogger-image--56946176.jpg"></a></div></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><b>Day <a href="tel:106%201525-1545" x-apple-data-detectors="true" x-apple-data-detectors-type="telephone" x-apple-data-detectors-result="21">106</a></b></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><i>Miles 1490-1512</i></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">This morning GlitterPop helps me slack-pack the last 16 miles to Interstate 5. Slack-packing is when you have someone else take your gear to the next stop, allowing you to hike with only a day pack and some snacks. </div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I dump all of my gear into the back seat of the rental car and seperate out what I need for the afternoon. My pack weighs about 5 pounds today, where as yesterday it weighed close to 40 pounds with my 9 days of food.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">More beautiful views of Shasta this afternoon-</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-5fWgfwL3rl_G9a-4UXqx1HgaBFknB57TWyIutFF8x6pVPGoQbkY-zSzhC1AZDBBf11a3vZx_yOLfoMpzB6g7IFpEi9m0PO-Wrjes2ClJu-8SHLXJzpj4sPGU0IT0sJnSsOdPeeJ9czh2/s640/blogger-image--2086426985.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-5fWgfwL3rl_G9a-4UXqx1HgaBFknB57TWyIutFF8x6pVPGoQbkY-zSzhC1AZDBBf11a3vZx_yOLfoMpzB6g7IFpEi9m0PO-Wrjes2ClJu-8SHLXJzpj4sPGU0IT0sJnSsOdPeeJ9czh2/s640/blogger-image--2086426985.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The 16 miles fly by and soon I see my dad and Moxie in the rental car pulling up at the interstate. They pick me up and we eat at an awesome brewery before GlitterPop drops us back off at the trailhead. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">A little tipsy, and maybe a little more sane then yesterday, I ask myself why I'm trying to carry out 9 days of food. What am I trying to prove? With Moxie's encouragement I reduce my food to 5 days and send the regs back with my dad.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Thank you GlitterPop for taking the time to visit me, for your patience, for your kindness to me and my fellow hikers, and for doing my stinky laundry while I rested!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Back on trail Moxie and I hike under Castle Crags. Epic!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFKSok0a_mcocQz2Po3mIKjR2Z6XZL4pnBa8YLS0Zwa3uKUztkl5JWFCS-TV1aig1cWoV8NkWOzFMT-vT0SNLyh_fVIyjFTdswLWk6fZEHlR-qwykCpeZZNZ_tVEjdhsO9l0-vA8OjVUzZ/s640/blogger-image--1565849081.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFKSok0a_mcocQz2Po3mIKjR2Z6XZL4pnBa8YLS0Zwa3uKUztkl5JWFCS-TV1aig1cWoV8NkWOzFMT-vT0SNLyh_fVIyjFTdswLWk6fZEHlR-qwykCpeZZNZ_tVEjdhsO9l0-vA8OjVUzZ/s640/blogger-image--1565849081.jpg"></a></div></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">We camp 6 miles from I-5, next to two brothers named Gas Pedal and Firestarter. I love these guys! I first met them in Sierra City and haven't seen them again until now. The four of us cook our dinners together, joking about life and hiking and love before heading to bed.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><b>Day 107</b></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><i>Miles 1512-1531</i></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">There's a huge climb first thing this morning. It's hot and the sun is burning me, but there are more views of Castle Crags as we ascend.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnh92shpi7vOD3jESzTwy92FVU9xrI3QLlgrexscDPFinG9psERQYWZqMlBARcwawDIRTjPGsd0-BqL_kSfFGej-9PfJ-RFT_1DpQZNj-HROwi6HDd9Lz6Rs3g8cvg_GBNIF0oxxgmQuZx/s640/blogger-image-1409839866.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnh92shpi7vOD3jESzTwy92FVU9xrI3QLlgrexscDPFinG9psERQYWZqMlBARcwawDIRTjPGsd0-BqL_kSfFGej-9PfJ-RFT_1DpQZNj-HROwi6HDd9Lz6Rs3g8cvg_GBNIF0oxxgmQuZx/s640/blogger-image-1409839866.jpg"></a></div></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Today is one of those long, hot, seemingly endless days. Must. Take. Nap.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigemgD5VVhxQT4eRxiIJf07dh8qTQv0-TZbFZKBihMhMTNh2W8yv9qwoIpyesWHBK6NpysZdU3WpFqnL4R2-_knANtZwlw0UK7q4qHjySZLWaFkFUgI3fFAbFTvXlyqXmJeKaigXOm22nM/s640/blogger-image--1557135907.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigemgD5VVhxQT4eRxiIJf07dh8qTQv0-TZbFZKBihMhMTNh2W8yv9qwoIpyesWHBK6NpysZdU3WpFqnL4R2-_knANtZwlw0UK7q4qHjySZLWaFkFUgI3fFAbFTvXlyqXmJeKaigXOm22nM/s640/blogger-image--1557135907.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaIUwccRQAPTo5gngiZumxbDZxi1Rpxi7g_Bfaj64Nn19tebZf85zxvrce28gQkT-VD57O1IeS5EcjFUFiW1HtSBdrZSL0SEP3gHTDTOXXZyTLA9Pfobf1ItdbNgb1sMhuGMWZyxnHT9ui/s640/blogger-image--201536060.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaIUwccRQAPTo5gngiZumxbDZxi1Rpxi7g_Bfaj64Nn19tebZf85zxvrce28gQkT-VD57O1IeS5EcjFUFiW1HtSBdrZSL0SEP3gHTDTOXXZyTLA9Pfobf1ItdbNgb1sMhuGMWZyxnHT9ui/s640/blogger-image--201536060.jpg"></a></div></div><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">After setting up camp for the night, Moxie and I talk while eating and get onto the topic of weight loss. I mention in passing that I've lost 25% of my body weight, thinking she already knew, and she stops eating her food. "Say what," she says.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I thought I would stop losing weight when my body came to a natural equilibrium. I feel like I eat as much and as often as I like, but maybe it's not enough? Maybe Moxie is right and I'll feel better if I eat more. Can I eat more? </div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Here's what I ate today-</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">- 2 packs of Carnation Instant Breakfast</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">- 1 cup granola</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">- 2 Kind bars</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">- 1 tortilla</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">- 1/4 pack of pepperoni (1/8lb)</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">- 2 string cheese</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">- Peanut m&ms</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">- 2 packs ramen</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">- 1oz Olive oil packet</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Total calories: About 2,500</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Oh shit, I think, I'm starving myself! I thought I was consuming more calories than that, but I guess I haven't been paying enough attention. Note to self: EAT MORE FOOD.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><b>Day 108</b></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><i>Miles 1531-1552</i></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">A strong breeze blows this morning, moving massive puffy cloudy across the sky. The clouds move quickly in these mountains. I've gone up in elevation the last two days and the escape from the humidity is a huge relief. </div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">The trail stays high all day, traversing ridges with views of Mt Shasta and an expansive valley to the north.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqz1-XFxqkkHp05o47wDvpwHY1JINJOyAhDgJiAxA_Y1Kx1piJeg21wtPHu0mhRXO19qtj3uZMUN3uLoDS5gjGmM4ToP5H3lm0Jt97xEAU5V4XWCU-JgVEvkXJb3kBESP1qAuLBstuvwhr/s640/blogger-image--1230087990.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqz1-XFxqkkHp05o47wDvpwHY1JINJOyAhDgJiAxA_Y1Kx1piJeg21wtPHu0mhRXO19qtj3uZMUN3uLoDS5gjGmM4ToP5H3lm0Jt97xEAU5V4XWCU-JgVEvkXJb3kBESP1qAuLBstuvwhr/s640/blogger-image--1230087990.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I stop for lunch at Deadfall lake. Approaching the lake I notice a warm, sandy shore and crystal clear waters. Of course I have to jump in. There's nothing quite like the feeling I get swimming in a lake with no one else around. The water is cool, not cold, and I swim for a few minutes before getting out and lounging in the sun.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3r9WWnc0VWj75Ns0QyCovd7-C_2fGkoH3pbrkFPAeVaid84PhEKLvpRk2ZTN_Kt0VjhT0EEdZQpP5vN89yP0bmk7ghuM4TFkJgC1Yt3UG1qwIhh4AB_-so_9M4hrfQf_uZu_xdJh4NGlT/s640/blogger-image-465593275.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3r9WWnc0VWj75Ns0QyCovd7-C_2fGkoH3pbrkFPAeVaid84PhEKLvpRk2ZTN_Kt0VjhT0EEdZQpP5vN89yP0bmk7ghuM4TFkJgC1Yt3UG1qwIhh4AB_-so_9M4hrfQf_uZu_xdJh4NGlT/s640/blogger-image-465593275.jpg"></a></div></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I hike a few miles further into a flat, wooded area where I feel the presence of bears. I know that sounds crazy, but I keep thinking, "if I was a bear this is where I would live." I sing a song to alert the bears of my presence. It's a made up song to the tune of Don't Cry for me Argentina and I feel confident that the noise, or maybe just my awful pitch, will scare away any bears. </div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Another great day on the PCT. My feet may be aching and I'm definitely short on food, but I'm clean and happy.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><b>Day 109</b></span></div><div><i>Miles 1552-1572</i></div></div><div><br></div><div>It's light out as I pack up my tent. A bunch of other hikers camped near me last night, but only Gas Pedal and Firestarter are still in camp as I pack up my tent and move on. </div><div><br></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Gas Pedal and Firestarter are from Huntington Beach and they're hiking a few sections over a two month period. I'm a</span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> little jealous, I wish my brothers could hike with me!</span></div><div><br></div><div>I warm up on the first few miles, it has been wonderfully chilly the last few days. After getting warm I stop to stretch and eat my breakfast near a small lake.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-_BkkuK9LkiO94Lv8AkIqtfuKlXZlA9XEIBqrndntwG9arULtd6T4WAdYvC6W35u6eyQ71Pfbwe82Qqw0dsmflMf6O5HZuVhF_ZO-GOJZ_MTjuBf0W8tsXXH8KVkBPH6ilnAa-OS3Agar/s640/blogger-image--157699066.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-_BkkuK9LkiO94Lv8AkIqtfuKlXZlA9XEIBqrndntwG9arULtd6T4WAdYvC6W35u6eyQ71Pfbwe82Qqw0dsmflMf6O5HZuVhF_ZO-GOJZ_MTjuBf0W8tsXXH8KVkBPH6ilnAa-OS3Agar/s640/blogger-image--157699066.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>I finish breakfast and walk slowly, sitting to let my body rest as often as possible.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu8N92cCSKS938R7TSA5qIyHBepvzTybkKtT_RdXnDKEMrw2dALo7T8MVkX0fS7eqvrm85kSGmy-v9lJ_YROjn07tkOp7_t0s5AGwn7s_Nf6EWTUzTcSeTT6ulsI36jjSKhCSiNjQN9tI4/s640/blogger-image--633160398.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu8N92cCSKS938R7TSA5qIyHBepvzTybkKtT_RdXnDKEMrw2dALo7T8MVkX0fS7eqvrm85kSGmy-v9lJ_YROjn07tkOp7_t0s5AGwn7s_Nf6EWTUzTcSeTT6ulsI36jjSKhCSiNjQN9tI4/s640/blogger-image--633160398.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>In the middle of the day I cross a highway and enter the Trinity-Alps Wilderness. After ascending a few more hills I get my first glimpse of the Trinity Alps.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx5L2dSiYzI1os4oVWhJNrtnpldtaKMN6qUYUY6YSWb3dVIg7BFkaKeAsD1kLDa6oMm-AinBzEt2fVNNM2e7Hr43Enje7OihpNF-0IAhX1Uxps5h-ykXjm8CeN-Y5y4IlArxBnjVVppC3d/s640/blogger-image-1037272006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx5L2dSiYzI1os4oVWhJNrtnpldtaKMN6qUYUY6YSWb3dVIg7BFkaKeAsD1kLDa6oMm-AinBzEt2fVNNM2e7Hr43Enje7OihpNF-0IAhX1Uxps5h-ykXjm8CeN-Y5y4IlArxBnjVVppC3d/s640/blogger-image-1037272006.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Later in the day I come upon this young deer about 200 feet before camp. He stands in front of me on the trail just staring and waiting to see what I'll do. I take some pictures as he walks ahead of me, leading me into camp.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfgHqyklUDSc97b12JX6BVcEWl5pQh-mnMxRTpcJKDRAl4cWUrJVVLUVudD276hoR0Sy99sOD-y1QqA6vJ9LTKuFq1vMFZC9zwrTgJtc-m0nkz-Mr-V_YqwzwSB4ZPipCc4OVg_0lEbrDD/s640/blogger-image--96660331.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfgHqyklUDSc97b12JX6BVcEWl5pQh-mnMxRTpcJKDRAl4cWUrJVVLUVudD276hoR0Sy99sOD-y1QqA6vJ9LTKuFq1vMFZC9zwrTgJtc-m0nkz-Mr-V_YqwzwSB4ZPipCc4OVg_0lEbrDD/s640/blogger-image--96660331.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div><div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><b>Day 110</b></span></div><div><i>Miles 1572-1597</i></div></div><div><br></div><div>I wake up earlier than usual and can't get back to sleep, so I let the air out of my sleeping pad at 6:30. The day flys by; my feet feel good, I feel good, and the trail in this section is endlessly beautiful.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQqLG-H5AGF2FmSGAW0NgiRu8Yu_JDagsHQ244wamGMSMNTXIx4PygjhnawB5Uqb9rjE0SSxnhMMINQ2SSb27USOUSbqznsV56pkYDauJcbOc86bNY9mPje13gT2w2ezPEyqyuEbEZxMpP/s640/blogger-image-1919577407.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQqLG-H5AGF2FmSGAW0NgiRu8Yu_JDagsHQ244wamGMSMNTXIx4PygjhnawB5Uqb9rjE0SSxnhMMINQ2SSb27USOUSbqznsV56pkYDauJcbOc86bNY9mPje13gT2w2ezPEyqyuEbEZxMpP/s640/blogger-image-1919577407.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div><div>The Trinity-Alps have not disappointed; rugged peaks, picturesque lakes, wildlife all around, and springs on every hillside. I'm in love with fresh, cold, unfiltered spring water.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhLKrV19O-XvlDdKf6qUirV_yyODrB6uQKNvkRt4XzVfROQYFjbAaQbjOBURNSofwBHLQhhkloSL5uZ9XWCxKQzLIPEj7iI67XEODoc__YnqO93bjBy2pvC0LK4GT1EQosGSJ4qVLnqKlQ/s640/blogger-image--2009846695.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhLKrV19O-XvlDdKf6qUirV_yyODrB6uQKNvkRt4XzVfROQYFjbAaQbjOBURNSofwBHLQhhkloSL5uZ9XWCxKQzLIPEj7iI67XEODoc__YnqO93bjBy2pvC0LK4GT1EQosGSJ4qVLnqKlQ/s640/blogger-image--2009846695.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>With my extra time I decide to climb a few more miles closer to Etna. I've forgotten how much further you can hike if you leave camp before 8am!</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2ZaDiJwyt4Xuc7y5MrMALb_thRkoEpLLD0ZiMsng1GGyrDTiEoR-vKrGESdZ3Aa_aTNsMqs9MO5IawAprugQRFI6sQmxb3EXLC227HwKzRwJWW7F3O5tsyN3Hi47J-xFZwy3K6T5SwnYt/s640/blogger-image--835227021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2ZaDiJwyt4Xuc7y5MrMALb_thRkoEpLLD0ZiMsng1GGyrDTiEoR-vKrGESdZ3Aa_aTNsMqs9MO5IawAprugQRFI6sQmxb3EXLC227HwKzRwJWW7F3O5tsyN3Hi47J-xFZwy3K6T5SwnYt/s640/blogger-image--835227021.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>I find a secluded spot on top of a ridge before the final 9-mile descent into Etna. A few other hikers roll in after I have my tent set up, including a hiker named Bomber and his brother Siesta. </div><div><br></div><div>Bomber asks if I'm Glitter and says that he has heard stories about me from his brother. I recognize Siesta's face, but I can't remember where I've met him before. Siesta invites me to breakfast and beer in Etna tomorrow (there is a restaurant AND a brewery) and I agree in hopes that I'll eventually be able to remember how I know him. </div><div><br></div><div>Oh yeah, the sunset is gorgeous from my tent tonight. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSg_OrdZzh8RtKlasrGHnkXrxL9d9XyYN9dMj9BtifnXKZ0KGE3p7n3rHrcJ8yprP7wZc_9siZo5mslfmu_X_mM63sSnIXeDoZtSypbj21uODRMD9wOehOKMjTAv3UypSwEiXgDB-Tzmm4/s640/blogger-image--776333856.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSg_OrdZzh8RtKlasrGHnkXrxL9d9XyYN9dMj9BtifnXKZ0KGE3p7n3rHrcJ8yprP7wZc_9siZo5mslfmu_X_mM63sSnIXeDoZtSypbj21uODRMD9wOehOKMjTAv3UypSwEiXgDB-Tzmm4/s640/blogger-image--776333856.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div><div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><b>Day 111</b></span></div></div></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><i>Miles 1597-1606</i></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I'm up before anyone else in camp. I only have a piece of cheese and a Snickers bar to get me into town. All I can think about is food. </span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I pass the 1600 mile mark and stop to eat some cheese. I can't believe I only have 1,060 miles left before I reach Canada. How in the world have I walked this far? Am I crazy? Yes, I think, I'm a little crazy for doing this. </span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgSMFazVJFfjhCYG28GZZLWv4b8HRJw_I8a3pzOsTsVvWOYCtb4MxjSlAmDciXXJos7VGk6UR9yj89xMaw-p5c9DWRGYfGhZHzrRwWXnfl1kW0wZb8_ITPrlU2qvNB-8QLcPAg6qN5Noon/s640/blogger-image-1794386130.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgSMFazVJFfjhCYG28GZZLWv4b8HRJw_I8a3pzOsTsVvWOYCtb4MxjSlAmDciXXJos7VGk6UR9yj89xMaw-p5c9DWRGYfGhZHzrRwWXnfl1kW0wZb8_ITPrlU2qvNB-8QLcPAg6qN5Noon/s640/blogger-image-1794386130.jpg"></a></div><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I get to the trailhead and get a hitch in to town with a few hikers, including Bomber and Siesta. We eat breakfast together at a cute little diner then walk across the street to get a shake. I don't want a shake, I could barely eat my breakfast, but I just think about the calories and imagine the milk as fuel.</span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Oh! I remember now. I met Siesta in Bishop.</span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">In the afternoon I do my resupply shopping. I'm so glad I gave up on that 9-day stretch idea. Why carry 9 days of food when you could carry 3? Fewer days of food means that I can carry less weight overall with more food (i.e. calories) for each day.</span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">I usually spend around $10 for each day of resupply, but today I spend $80 for three days. I'm going to try and eat close to 5,000 calories every day. We'll see how it goes.</span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">On my way to the store I see this deer nursing her babies in the road. I yell, "GET OFF THE ROAD" and wave my arms until they run into the forest.</span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4qUJo0_avxRJ7cEo5ojmkSx6xHDHxwMDzJBUfkJlEZ9bWtyMQtKrldh5z3miG9lF7y07mDdnEgD7dqpUb_FCeMbxMprCbzCRQ4-x6sd23ywQvJly4Xi7FHl29rO9HgB-hTgHlR69_hZz7/s640/blogger-image-1148864829.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4qUJo0_avxRJ7cEo5ojmkSx6xHDHxwMDzJBUfkJlEZ9bWtyMQtKrldh5z3miG9lF7y07mDdnEgD7dqpUb_FCeMbxMprCbzCRQ4-x6sd23ywQvJly4Xi7FHl29rO9HgB-hTgHlR69_hZz7/s640/blogger-image-1148864829.jpg"></a></div><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">Moxie and I walk to the brewery in the evening and have dinner with tons of other hikers including the Germans, the Bubbies, and Tortuga, all who I haven't seen in a while. Great day.</span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">Only a few days until I reach Oregon! Next time you hear from me I'll be in a different state!</span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860000285673806917.post-32821317123945066452014-07-18T15:01:00.001-07:002014-07-18T16:54:33.683-07:00PCT Days 94-103: Chester to Shasta<div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Day 94 & 95</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Zero days</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">For the last two days I've taken a break from hiking and blogging to just relax in Chester with Ethan. We had an incredible time and I feel a million times more relaxed, refreshed, and motivated now than I did when I got to highway 36 a few days ago.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I want to give a shout out to my friends at the CIS, the job I left in Seattle. They sent some trail magic down with Ethan including wine, two boxes of snacks, and this awesome handmade card with over 40 messages from my coworkers. Reading their notes of support and encouragement almost brought me to tears. THANK YOU CIS buddies for your incredible thoughtfulness (and for fighting the good fight every day against ignorance, fear and cancer misinformation). :)</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi62LcdNW01b9sKaQJkIe2A_krSeBAJhJ0gPNWafZuGHZwlN2S8j-d8IcWQk-sfIAv3pHeFjfdLjTpcgpYR1lF077JSM9UetdC9AoiVp6EAP51t2r2PN4QLa_7x14cUYrAwz2EfcfS4eCeS/s640/blogger-image--203366760.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi62LcdNW01b9sKaQJkIe2A_krSeBAJhJ0gPNWafZuGHZwlN2S8j-d8IcWQk-sfIAv3pHeFjfdLjTpcgpYR1lF077JSM9UetdC9AoiVp6EAP51t2r2PN4QLa_7x14cUYrAwz2EfcfS4eCeS/s640/blogger-image--203366760.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Chester itself was a great trail town. The business are very hiker-friendly and Ethan got to experience trail magic galore. Look, the town even prays for us! I love how they provide hikers with the three things we need most: food, water, and wifi.</div></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx1-1MsBOcRmQHZkmiZak2b_zOB75awBw7QsuQQGZO0Bi_yTPvEXR0YvDOs9TNwcLBAtvgCnuB2mmNG-iP8KhAVBn1Sjzt1ql_QF_NVgLMTCl-TPPNx_4b2jQldkuisWn_OZmdGiheLmpj/s640/blogger-image--1473683776.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx1-1MsBOcRmQHZkmiZak2b_zOB75awBw7QsuQQGZO0Bi_yTPvEXR0YvDOs9TNwcLBAtvgCnuB2mmNG-iP8KhAVBn1Sjzt1ql_QF_NVgLMTCl-TPPNx_4b2jQldkuisWn_OZmdGiheLmpj/s640/blogger-image--1473683776.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">The dental office in Chester even gives hikers toothbrushes, toothpaste, dental floss, homemade cookies, and a $20 coupon to a local restaurant. They also squeezed me in for a quick visit with the dentist after I mentioned that I've been having some sensitivity in one of my molars for the past week. Apparently I have exposed denta (sp?) from either clenching or overbrushing. I don't think I'm clenching, so maybe I'll just brush softer. Anyway, THANK YOU Dr. Webb! </div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisPzqD6h2BLFKwKK-Pg-7Hlszf84B4-o2fCEkf_SiiVALRv8l6imHHqUBpjojgNz4o-KhlmRp0S_4bYOcaEOMCTZ0BqJ_gZaGBagoq7ekamS1VJunX0RqkE8y5zVGi8eHoTTGve5sz8BoI/s640/blogger-image--978066967.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisPzqD6h2BLFKwKK-Pg-7Hlszf84B4-o2fCEkf_SiiVALRv8l6imHHqUBpjojgNz4o-KhlmRp0S_4bYOcaEOMCTZ0BqJ_gZaGBagoq7ekamS1VJunX0RqkE8y5zVGi8eHoTTGve5sz8BoI/s640/blogger-image--978066967.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">The dental office let me use their back lawn to sort my resupply. It's so strange to take a bunch of junk food (high carb, high fat), seperate it into ziplocks, and pack it into my bag knowing that it's all I'll eat for the next few days. Maybe next time I'll include a list so you can see the kind of filth that sustains me.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoaIRvx27W3VG3tJuawoMUffYW7nl_t9RxfN2YG8GqG5ZIEx9E75EYyVzJW0u_EVhbyq02EE50pQVHsO3vuf8mExNHnT98_zZi_FFgkIb4_32Rn8UvDXv5exDTb9cPZBquv0fFH9Cvfr5R/s640/blogger-image-324326896.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoaIRvx27W3VG3tJuawoMUffYW7nl_t9RxfN2YG8GqG5ZIEx9E75EYyVzJW0u_EVhbyq02EE50pQVHsO3vuf8mExNHnT98_zZi_FFgkIb4_32Rn8UvDXv5exDTb9cPZBquv0fFH9Cvfr5R/s640/blogger-image-324326896.jpg"></a></div></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Ethan and I also went to Lake Alamanor. While we were sitting on the beach a family offered to let us use their kayaks. Off-trail magic!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqoE2k1ZY8WymIIlGLFOAYFTfGJU78FPzPsgf_2LssfzrJIw_erXni9Dxt0KZBFv7IhxnUBH17q49JrTQ4Q0Y-438TMcy8t3KpcfcYd_EAZmBoPEE5kHuAxOsHiEdfYn6OYaj6W1Jh7Ykk/s640/blogger-image-811830640.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqoE2k1ZY8WymIIlGLFOAYFTfGJU78FPzPsgf_2LssfzrJIw_erXni9Dxt0KZBFv7IhxnUBH17q49JrTQ4Q0Y-438TMcy8t3KpcfcYd_EAZmBoPEE5kHuAxOsHiEdfYn6OYaj6W1Jh7Ykk/s640/blogger-image-811830640.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Ethan helped me relax and get my mind off the trail. Bye bye Ethman! I've loved every second of this visit. Thank you for taking the time to drive 12 hours each way just to hang out with this stinky hiker.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUvXszWKDBnk8Vr9FNix8SoK3iP328NMpRE4iRaNmNwIzUjNBN4b1cq5j_3o60lQhSIZ6a2VGFYXZ1uoWgJSgxZgSiQBlIZ_FZnS9NdhIyMiLi9H91WLCoezHW__Y3A3OSN_jSkSLSFEt0/s640/blogger-image--1664905457.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUvXszWKDBnk8Vr9FNix8SoK3iP328NMpRE4iRaNmNwIzUjNBN4b1cq5j_3o60lQhSIZ6a2VGFYXZ1uoWgJSgxZgSiQBlIZ_FZnS9NdhIyMiLi9H91WLCoezHW__Y3A3OSN_jSkSLSFEt0/s640/blogger-image--1664905457.jpg"></a></div></div></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Day 96</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><a href="tel:133-1361" x-apple-data-detectors="true" x-apple-data-detectors-type="telephone" x-apple-data-detectors-result="0">1335-13</a>44</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I stayed with Moxie last night at the Antler Motel. She left at 6:30am, but I stayed in the room with the curtains drawn and the air conditioner on high.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I'm back on the trail by late afternoon and I spend a lot of time thinking about how I feel about the second half of this journey and what I've learned from the PCT so far. </div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Considering the amount of days I have before going back to work and the number of remaining miles, I've calculated that I only need to hike 17 miles each day (plus a few to account for zero days). I have a pretty typical end date (9/25), so why do I feel like I'm in such a hurry all the time? Why does it seem like every other hiker is trying to hike 25-30 miles a day?</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">It has left me hiking alone most if the time, but continuing to maintain my own pace. At this point the PCT feels almost completely psychological rather than physical and I need to find ways to better adapt to the natural rhythym of the trail. No more sacrificing rest and breaks just to make more miles. I want to finish this hike in a way that's positive for me.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiicybO7Z6F8gA4HeKL33_dUvd8wBjTOCE_Hk_cffwuTssL-bPM9q6FpqUm8boj_G6pMsn06lPy04y6DJms4v1I7fKJ8UCqxhVrP9ERfJd-SMB9GQEkUPEkUFNUfimeIrGgrnIPjFyIJGQK/s640/blogger-image--478569943.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiicybO7Z6F8gA4HeKL33_dUvd8wBjTOCE_Hk_cffwuTssL-bPM9q6FpqUm8boj_G6pMsn06lPy04y6DJms4v1I7fKJ8UCqxhVrP9ERfJd-SMB9GQEkUPEkUFNUfimeIrGgrnIPjFyIJGQK/s640/blogger-image--478569943.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">For days now I've been watching Lassen Peak get closer and I've almost reached its base.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnKxgbvRKLVgvklexHPXM7XKyWi90edM_xFedYW4mS1MsPzAswgjprNTFHAJChpzs4wr1FhlMeBZ87TV0FnUJil5ol2fitzaxvWPG7eQz_7_46lovFyFT2IPQ-U-FwK_bY5MFt_DHYaGko/s640/blogger-image--2096117662.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnKxgbvRKLVgvklexHPXM7XKyWi90edM_xFedYW4mS1MsPzAswgjprNTFHAJChpzs4wr1FhlMeBZ87TV0FnUJil5ol2fitzaxvWPG7eQz_7_46lovFyFT2IPQ-U-FwK_bY5MFt_DHYaGko/s640/blogger-image--2096117662.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I stop after nine miles at the north fork of the Feather River. Must bathe whenever possible. Even a bird bath in a small river leaves me feeling clean and refreshed.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr4_yISQu7VpugqBKC63ej6BdPgtNENitkVwQ11gmd2UIpuVi32AtrnGirHLfLLeS6VhYUa8YhVo-xADf5nidyzcxi5KmtnQx4KttGIXgq9cCDbiB0FbD9EnCVlMafE7_F9TstxDDlrZkD/s640/blogger-image-293410494.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr4_yISQu7VpugqBKC63ej6BdPgtNENitkVwQ11gmd2UIpuVi32AtrnGirHLfLLeS6VhYUa8YhVo-xADf5nidyzcxi5KmtnQx4KttGIXgq9cCDbiB0FbD9EnCVlMafE7_F9TstxDDlrZkD/s640/blogger-image-293410494.jpg"></a></div></div></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Two other hikers are camped near the river and I introduce myself. Gypsy and Dusty are from Boston and they're hiking the PCT before making a big move to the Seattle area. I cook my dinner of two ramen packets with olive oil as I answer their questions and we talk about Seattle. I think my love of Seattle is contagious. Great first day back on trail.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Day 97</span></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><a href="tel:1344-136" x-apple-data-detectors="true" x-apple-data-detectors-type="telephone" x-apple-data-detectors-result="1">1344-136</a>3</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I wake up at 1am, it's dark and I instantly feel awake and alert. I hear a noise, is it an animal? No, it's thunder. I lay my head back down on my pillow of extra clothes and look up at the sky. The moon is so bright. Why am I awake?</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I toss and turn for half an hour before I feel the first drop of rain. I didn't put on my rainfly last night, I love sleeping under the stars, so I jump out of my tent and quickly put on the rainfly. The pitter patter of rain on my tent quickens as I zip myself back inside. I wonder if my body knew that it was about to rain before my conscious mind did. Weird, I think, as I drift back to sleep.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I was planning on getting up early and trying to get close to 30 miles today, but the rain keeps me in my tent until 8:15am. I tell myself, "go with the flow, be flexible, don't force your agenda on the trail." </div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I manage to pack up my things before the rain starts again. It's light rain and the sweet smell of the newly damp forest floor is overpowering.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiojoxaV5u18CU2wccGlsv8ivKPn7LqYYj0AAk27ZmJxe_RxAi3KyyMLkSrGSWtoK4JRLTMOBqoQHcGyTF_gggc0-tSB3NPUsXDV482opvXgPmfzdHQxXQKvHbmR_wrYElOOzX-Lm4FWGVl/s640/blogger-image-1826595801.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiojoxaV5u18CU2wccGlsv8ivKPn7LqYYj0AAk27ZmJxe_RxAi3KyyMLkSrGSWtoK4JRLTMOBqoQHcGyTF_gggc0-tSB3NPUsXDV482opvXgPmfzdHQxXQKvHbmR_wrYElOOzX-Lm4FWGVl/s640/blogger-image-1826595801.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I meet Pollack during a break on one of the climbs. He's an AT alumni from Rhode Island. Pollack and I leap-frog for the next few hours, cruising on the gentle terrain. </div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Someone has been writing on the white blazes which pop up on the trail every 5 minutes. Most of the messages seem pointless, a bit like graffiti, but this one makes me laugh.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAbpLRYx4fgMc5GbsTm4wQNR9RiERs9zJiHvKXH3wrPqJ8C0Kv7qLYzkQGzSRNFbTEY4i6YMfTAVp2xKjITrslJgJQTPih2X6jYFN9QgPS4fRX33SjTh3Kwljfw-0eNoJ7icVaWAeCLV-i/s640/blogger-image--1965104022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAbpLRYx4fgMc5GbsTm4wQNR9RiERs9zJiHvKXH3wrPqJ8C0Kv7qLYzkQGzSRNFbTEY4i6YMfTAVp2xKjITrslJgJQTPih2X6jYFN9QgPS4fRX33SjTh3Kwljfw-0eNoJ7icVaWAeCLV-i/s640/blogger-image--1965104022.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Drakesbad Resort is a small resort on the PCT with a few cabins and a hot spring pool. Pollack mentioned earlier that this place serves lunch, so I quicken my pace to make it before they stop serving food at 1pm. On the way to the resort I pass Boiling Spring Lake. The lake is pale green and holes dot the shore, bubbling with hot mud.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyQ_hiFFFvGth6EPF1mg4ZYQ5tsiZ6pjEyFUQ3ud_harW_Qv8rlpjNKKHcK5OQJG43MrO-Fc12EGrfyCGdD7d1PsW1wVjSVHZo6onqyNunwIPKM-1sj9geTCu4qdSTua8xF0xhM5h8wlYU/s640/blogger-image--1600732062.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyQ_hiFFFvGth6EPF1mg4ZYQ5tsiZ6pjEyFUQ3ud_harW_Qv8rlpjNKKHcK5OQJG43MrO-Fc12EGrfyCGdD7d1PsW1wVjSVHZo6onqyNunwIPKM-1sj9geTCu4qdSTua8xF0xhM5h8wlYU/s640/blogger-image--1600732062.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I reach Drakesbad with 15 minutes to spare, pay $14, and dig into the all-you-can-eat sandwhich buffet. I chug 3 glasses of fresh squeezed orange juice before even sitting down to eat.</div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4xsUdKle-yVA48rWmBeAIoaG44nsTaZZMwpwkYHShIc50m93vj0Z1lhH1QoGuX9IX-X3medq251Faa9FwkZLNlYliS0gMRwTeP2kyJC7zzaCbvtHcd10e552OSexsMQuxDzFJsHoOOHaQ/s640/blogger-image--1578793468.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4xsUdKle-yVA48rWmBeAIoaG44nsTaZZMwpwkYHShIc50m93vj0Z1lhH1QoGuX9IX-X3medq251Faa9FwkZLNlYliS0gMRwTeP2kyJC7zzaCbvtHcd10e552OSexsMQuxDzFJsHoOOHaQ/s640/blogger-image--1578793468.jpg"></a></div></div><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">After eating I take a short nap in a hammock near the lodge. The hammock comfortable and I could stay here tonight, but it's early so I get some water from a hose behind the lodge and I walk back to the trail.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">After Drakesbad, the PCT goes through more of Lassen National Park and passes Upper and Lower Twin Lakes</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I stop at Lower Twin Lake and decide to take a swim. I'm trying to make it a point to rinse in a river or lake as often as possible, it's these little things that keep the trail exciting. There's no one else in the lake and I take off my clothes and wade in. The water is warm and clear.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwJvM5sQaVgbL7ETp6WRIfvbIKP_5tbwkgKLMct3PFdGtPdi7yTmrsYM6QIxINtMuWgZNcHpd53bVd4RWFEQJHIoO2j11V6bZlpuc9ih8pRflX93Hyoqvqnvm5C1DAcEZUJ15GoPncemaP/s640/blogger-image--895930553.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwJvM5sQaVgbL7ETp6WRIfvbIKP_5tbwkgKLMct3PFdGtPdi7yTmrsYM6QIxINtMuWgZNcHpd53bVd4RWFEQJHIoO2j11V6bZlpuc9ih8pRflX93Hyoqvqnvm5C1DAcEZUJ15GoPncemaP/s640/blogger-image--895930553.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Free of dirt and deet I hike on for a few more miles, quickly walking into a large burn area. I set up my tent under an incredible display in the sky. The sun setting to the east and the moon rising in the west and they sit equal distance above their respective horizons. It's a full moon!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW23Wj3Hp5TF3hJJaMt6_3eZ0AWERt2y3LwBw9cFpXZ5oKe78Lfv5n3VlRd1qGZLERbAWtI-4cPax1L9-z0RufBYRvNtHbSvMzUDHAHDVPE8c-RAZISFy3DAK3qToQCXFCNZ6jmeDeRx_-/s640/blogger-image-1918501057.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW23Wj3Hp5TF3hJJaMt6_3eZ0AWERt2y3LwBw9cFpXZ5oKe78Lfv5n3VlRd1qGZLERbAWtI-4cPax1L9-z0RufBYRvNtHbSvMzUDHAHDVPE8c-RAZISFy3DAK3qToQCXFCNZ6jmeDeRx_-/s640/blogger-image-1918501057.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">It has been a tough day, but I wouldn't want to be anywhere else but right here, right now. It's hard to be anything but grateful in such a beautiful place.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div></div><div>Day 98 </div><div><a href="tel:137-1400" x-apple-data-detectors="true" x-apple-data-detectors-type="telephone" x-apple-data-detectors-result="2">1364-1</a>381 </div><div><br></div><div>I wake up to my phone playing soft jazz, it's 5am and my sleeping bag is too comfortable. I hit the snooze button what feels like 12 times before I roll out of my tent at 8. I can't keep doing this, but it's so nice to sleep for 9 hours! </div><div><br></div><div>The morning takes me through more burn areas without accessible water. Am I back in the desert? Today will be another short day and I plan to stop just short of an exposed 29.6 mile waterless stretch on Hat Creek Rim. The views of Lassen are incredible in this section.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtqcLLDDAxdkGeY0UqEWwHcMBSO3v9pZtI5GcmdOAj3OXcFbCJOUQKfeBWxLieXdl2zjWINWDY0re2tv13ojZbXmpJKDrxwgKC6URzaSAX6nvZHEkNF9OfWtEUOw8d8o0V74E5lLowGHgl/s640/blogger-image-1269397529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtqcLLDDAxdkGeY0UqEWwHcMBSO3v9pZtI5GcmdOAj3OXcFbCJOUQKfeBWxLieXdl2zjWINWDY0re2tv13ojZbXmpJKDrxwgKC6URzaSAX6nvZHEkNF9OfWtEUOw8d8o0V74E5lLowGHgl/s640/blogger-image-1269397529.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>The trail finally renters the forest and the shade is a huge relief. It's 11am and it's already over 90 degrees in the sun.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-EyQatbuS4LCWmdbR9T7LOd6_RaeM-MtjBtyW-WdZbggKGQ300uAQAwkg5RFVLdNv9QfBhxP7xcHyDISLXGhLUDHVEA2AvrsIRQsE0NOxWPseJE90Wjh4U12DHyRRRLep5em-cQotd-M7/s640/blogger-image-394665495.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-EyQatbuS4LCWmdbR9T7LOd6_RaeM-MtjBtyW-WdZbggKGQ300uAQAwkg5RFVLdNv9QfBhxP7xcHyDISLXGhLUDHVEA2AvrsIRQsE0NOxWPseJE90Wjh4U12DHyRRRLep5em-cQotd-M7/s640/blogger-image-394665495.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div><div>A few mes before the town of Old Station, where I plan on getting a snack, I see a sign in the trail that reads, "POP-UP TRAIL ANGELS GOOD FOOD YUMMY 1 MILE."</div><div><br></div><div>I'm expecting root beer floats or beer or something equally cheap and portable, but when I arrive I'm blown away by something completely different. </div><div><br></div><div>A sweet couple, Chef and Jimmy Can, are preparing gourmet food for hikers in a trailer that's covered in a huge mural of Crater Lake. Chef used to work in a restaurant at Crater Lake, but this year she's trail angel-ing all over the PCT. The menu today is emu chile tacos with a micro Mediterranean mango salsa. I sit and talk with the couple for a while, play a round of 420 rummy (an interesting twist on the classic card game) and learn all about the health benefits of emu. </div><div><br></div><div>I'm really loving this couples layed back, friendly style. I mention that I only have $1 on me, haven't been to an ATM in a while, and Chef waves get hand. "Don't worry," she says as she walks into the trailer and puts on her chef jacket and tall white hat. "You hungry?"</div><div><br></div><div>Chef's family imported emus into the US from Australia a few generations ago and now it's one of Chef's personal goals to bring emu meat into the American diet.</div><div><br></div><div>After nearly two hours of chatting with Chef and Jimmy Can, I see Princess and Mr Sandals hiking into the elaborate setup. We all sit and eat tacos on the shaky folding tables. I have two s<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">ervings of tacos because they're SO GOOD and Chef puts an incredible amount of heart into her cooking. I would have given them a $20 bill I if had one, they deserve it. I hope I see these folks further up the trail.</span></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4JncfuJJqeLbRpZrsA_ttpWlJb73NEGoiZYO7N_eZqYcDH9viXA3QWf9k25h-SkE9cDQBKaL45HUDidpmuAj5lH_1eOnC7nZvfictVW40RJfJvgY_VrNuL14IEftTDWcVyV9PMfQzaX4C/s640/blogger-image-670106157.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4JncfuJJqeLbRpZrsA_ttpWlJb73NEGoiZYO7N_eZqYcDH9viXA3QWf9k25h-SkE9cDQBKaL45HUDidpmuAj5lH_1eOnC7nZvfictVW40RJfJvgY_VrNuL14IEftTDWcVyV9PMfQzaX4C/s640/blogger-image-670106157.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div><div>The Oregon Country Fair is going on right now in Veneta, Oregon. I was upset to miss OCF this year, I've been six years in a row, and it seems serendipitous that Oregon would come to me this year on the form of this Oregonian couple. Every year something wonderful happens to me at OCF and this year is no exception.</div><div><br></div><div>An hour after eating emu tacos I arrive in Old Station and order a giant chocolate shake. The shake is nothing but milk and <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> Dryers ice cream, scooped out of big cardboard tubs. I get a mix of Chocolate Fudge and Cookie Dough and it comes out to me overflowing in a clear plastic cup. I drink the shake quickly and lay back on a picnic table to digest. </span></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSu2grhBjIMEHKd73ONZymFKqxq_P8MBHmnEd-p13tpiwrKaiOqwlm1rNEXIj5g5paCVJjzkoludj_2xLnO_ozizzJFp_1gnbl9LhNo-SV9J6X0yg23st_sYV90LQOQ28pWxhXDulNgjhz/s640/blogger-image--710754953.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSu2grhBjIMEHKd73ONZymFKqxq_P8MBHmnEd-p13tpiwrKaiOqwlm1rNEXIj5g5paCVJjzkoludj_2xLnO_ozizzJFp_1gnbl9LhNo-SV9J6X0yg23st_sYV90LQOQ28pWxhXDulNgjhz/s640/blogger-image--710754953.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div><div>I walk on the highway that constitutes the main, and only, road through the town of Old Station. On the way I pass Hat Creek and decide to take a dip. Some nice women warm me that the water is cold, but I jump in anyway, washing the sweat from my body. Why are baths so nice? How do I get so damn dirty?</div><div><br></div><div>Back on the road it's a short trip back to the trail.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnCvg4mIGFJbRbAcXY4DfLxv-xBNLT2L6n5bu35S720xbMPXDkEpI6umlVbA9pSJUOI5oe98iREYEEUyeLlVs0H-HGYDw05ttmEXoQTVR9of4Qfzu_HoKmUtVzyWQpFFeRGQ_upHj3m9r7/s640/blogger-image-1223373693.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnCvg4mIGFJbRbAcXY4DfLxv-xBNLT2L6n5bu35S720xbMPXDkEpI6umlVbA9pSJUOI5oe98iREYEEUyeLlVs0H-HGYDw05ttmEXoQTVR9of4Qfzu_HoKmUtVzyWQpFFeRGQ_upHj3m9r7/s640/blogger-image-1223373693.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>The next hour is a blur. I took a<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> "shortcut" that turned into a crazy detour through spiky manzanita bushes and over lava rocks. Ugh.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Exhausted and back on trail, I stumbled upon Princess and Mr Sandals already going to bed. I said hello, rolled out my groundsheet on the closest flat spot, and jumped into my sleeping bag. No time to set up the tent tonight. I have to get up at 4am to start the notorious Hat Creek Rim section. </span></div><div><br></div><div>Day 99</div><div>1381-1407</div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Today has been rough. Have I ever mentioned that I hate hiking in the dark? Because I really, really dislike it. I fell and hit my elbow 3 times this morning in the dark before I realized that I lost my compass. It used to attach to my watch.</span></div><div><br></div><div>Looking back, here's the moon over Mt Lassen-</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBHjXavu83bOSk3psYOHmsI11PiI-TDhgE80SB_z2zqg5786-UTE-VqZcp57dUgvTxe0uwqlRK2uupuHZ8uXf0UwkjxwWiZGlhSi_xDsmvHPpw8u_w4D9k35mPyQc6CC9F9j_HjblTp8b7/s640/blogger-image--16886016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBHjXavu83bOSk3psYOHmsI11PiI-TDhgE80SB_z2zqg5786-UTE-VqZcp57dUgvTxe0uwqlRK2uupuHZ8uXf0UwkjxwWiZGlhSi_xDsmvHPpw8u_w4D9k35mPyQc6CC9F9j_HjblTp8b7/s640/blogger-image--16886016.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Hat Creek Rim is a high rim over a huge volcanic valley formed by the last eruption of Mt Lassen (sometime around 1915, I believe). The trail follows the rim for 30 miles allowing for unubstructed views of the valley to the east, but also making the trail hot and exposed for most of the day. Luckily, local residents keep up water caches along the way-</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHAXmC-zEUX6ekd9RxjIgKexaAHTP7P9m0dlSNAHvmaAq_U7FZIiB7PGEAsO9_k5cpr9_AuSK_mdZ2DjrM5_Iak2IalLDJxMuEl7O1DXpeAxUs3ueW4ef4TyeRkY-SlnvuRVnHh2xP-pz_/s640/blogger-image--1605038869.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHAXmC-zEUX6ekd9RxjIgKexaAHTP7P9m0dlSNAHvmaAq_U7FZIiB7PGEAsO9_k5cpr9_AuSK_mdZ2DjrM5_Iak2IalLDJxMuEl7O1DXpeAxUs3ueW4ef4TyeRkY-SlnvuRVnHh2xP-pz_/s640/blogger-image--1605038869.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>It's beautiful up here, but it gets hot by 7am and the temperature continues to rise into the afternoon.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIJTzpWnsXT5Pqt86F6-LeqBAybMU1hQU6d2MpLtS-O4_Jgr_c0Bm9_kybq5yXxnuo0MBJ03P-adh5RVeqJoHoTg4Yawgwf_sYOpX3wD8a1-Xfa-jLndAnabVmYrVaHNXlqADhdy__HAX8/s640/blogger-image--264903500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIJTzpWnsXT5Pqt86F6-LeqBAybMU1hQU6d2MpLtS-O4_Jgr_c0Bm9_kybq5yXxnuo0MBJ03P-adh5RVeqJoHoTg4Yawgwf_sYOpX3wD8a1-Xfa-jLndAnabVmYrVaHNXlqADhdy__HAX8/s640/blogger-image--264903500.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>After 17 miles I've arrived at a big water cache with at least 25 gallons of water. It's so awesome that non-PCT'ers contribute so much to making this dry stretch a little more manageable.</div><div><br></div><div>On a road a little passed the cache I came across a large RV with a PCT sticker. I've seen this RV before, outside of Tahoe, so I know it belongs to Coppertone. Coppertone is a PCT alumni who is driving his RV up and down the trail this year doing section hikes (in the nude, from what I've heard) and offering trail magic in the form of rootbeer floats. He's nowhere to be seen, but I plan on waiting out the heat here. I hope he shows up; I could really go for some ice cream right about now! </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikr-3GMcyE97Pa88KJCUFd6blUxLIE-hKzCzDgmcJKo1Puh_FvpdvG5DCt-CiljXeDsoE3mrlLk_mN2wc7cQO6onGMD5ZBVTdRz6E00cVSqB5fccftTHR_KpQDX9UEHG5_QghTtj9V4TtB/s640/blogger-image--1172045629.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikr-3GMcyE97Pa88KJCUFd6blUxLIE-hKzCzDgmcJKo1Puh_FvpdvG5DCt-CiljXeDsoE3mrlLk_mN2wc7cQO6onGMD5ZBVTdRz6E00cVSqB5fccftTHR_KpQDX9UEHG5_QghTtj9V4TtB/s640/blogger-image--1172045629.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">Princess and Mr Sandals show up and we all relax in shade of Coppertone's RV. Soon we hear a motorcycle coming up the road, it's Coppertone! He gives us all rootbeer floats and they taste magical. I have been resting here for almost 3 hours and I need to move on. Eh, maybe after another nap.</font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div>It's still hot and I have to use my umbrella to block the sun even though it's almost 8pm. The sun is setting slowly over the distant mountains and, on this exposed rim, no trees are shielding me from its rays. I'm sweating, but it's the golden hour and the views are stunning.</div><div><br></div><div>Mt Lassen behind me-</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNk9hVnfAc145NYeiOetsay9yKsxKo5G3sVlktKser5CLH7u-2zHRe-b2Y-QcZsCSJD8IA2NalTAXVFSAsq8i9Vt4e_UG74Yw6yx5AreldjULulN5RSC7DRAkZphTFNbnDC7-5rIbw_u10/s640/blogger-image--1482321698.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNk9hVnfAc145NYeiOetsay9yKsxKo5G3sVlktKser5CLH7u-2zHRe-b2Y-QcZsCSJD8IA2NalTAXVFSAsq8i9Vt4e_UG74Yw6yx5AreldjULulN5RSC7DRAkZphTFNbnDC7-5rIbw_u10/s640/blogger-image--1482321698.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Mt Shasta in front (hard to see, but it's right in the center of this photo)-</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1tSWBtC6x9IqLRoCOQjU1qpve23NWrxhY5DV2wWt7co0K3uCfz_DRZpNNwmM83DueQrBcfIuxFkcNTAouf_k0FIP1om2SbDmbz-7PPBCDxBomzuP0-luk5AiaoaTmwoTcZHgGqjMlKcS8/s640/blogger-image--1498615357.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1tSWBtC6x9IqLRoCOQjU1qpve23NWrxhY5DV2wWt7co0K3uCfz_DRZpNNwmM83DueQrBcfIuxFkcNTAouf_k0FIP1om2SbDmbz-7PPBCDxBomzuP0-luk5AiaoaTmwoTcZHgGqjMlKcS8/s640/blogger-image--1498615357.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Made it to camp! It's dark, but still at least 85 degrees. It's so hot I can't think. I left the rim and hiked into these lava fields (so cool) but the sharp lava rocks made it really tough to find a campsite. Oh look what I found near my tent. Very comforting!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLxamOxBcjIwamLgWLPkH9rf1ATn4iSag-hCimhLxbQe5ePrLLFxYsqYTrd73_xexybTy4Yet3tDmaPJxVkQbLXQmYBKx-0vtbDt0J0BoTIbjIu31d9yF5-bgb-dqihooQEfGhCe8BtOq1/s640/blogger-image-2093929645.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLxamOxBcjIwamLgWLPkH9rf1ATn4iSag-hCimhLxbQe5ePrLLFxYsqYTrd73_xexybTy4Yet3tDmaPJxVkQbLXQmYBKx-0vtbDt0J0BoTIbjIu31d9yF5-bgb-dqihooQEfGhCe8BtOq1/s640/blogger-image-2093929645.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div></div></div></div><div>Day 100 <span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">(7/14)</span></div><div><a href="tel:1407-142" x-apple-data-detectors="true" x-apple-data-detectors-type="telephone" x-apple-data-detectors-result="7">1407-142</a>3</div><div><br></div><div>It's hot and humid as I descend into the warm, wet valley past the lava fields. The first reliable watersource is a fish hatchery owned by Pacific Gas and Electric. It seems like they own the majority of forest land up here in Northerm California. I've seen their signs everywhere since passing through Belden.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoeWKXIBZa16LE4yF7cETngPeTTCNfP6pN0sORM9DHRMK9yc2A-01YLER0eXlcv5v8qvFMXUyvaou2kddNgz84FR0RI5AZCbaXIe2jlTiqKWvDGWP9lrTl8aU9fU1MnQzZ4QjLsBLfiO8Q/s640/blogger-image--254342083.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoeWKXIBZa16LE4yF7cETngPeTTCNfP6pN0sORM9DHRMK9yc2A-01YLER0eXlcv5v8qvFMXUyvaou2kddNgz84FR0RI5AZCbaXIe2jlTiqKWvDGWP9lrTl8aU9fU1MnQzZ4QjLsBLfiO8Q/s640/blogger-image--254342083.jpg"></a></div></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Eventually, through the thick, moist air of the valley, the trail leads me to highway 86. It takes me 30 minutes to get a ride, standing on the highway with the big sign that reads, "PCT HIKER TO TOWN." The driver let's me hop in the bed of his truck. It's illegal to do this on Califorina, but it's oh so effective for hitch hiking. </div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUJAKo_PkWaEajjIv1i0fbtsOWKL6Ze_Ze_rhmj8zuQ8SafYegYy5IqrDxJ75839eWFBe8V1IZGCTZB_4jsAGOzQYBmjh_MF5JpxGY6hCiJIg4Gt6eG5wijFzBKpW8HuHVfGFPfgqQcLca/s640/blogger-image-523517453.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUJAKo_PkWaEajjIv1i0fbtsOWKL6Ze_Ze_rhmj8zuQ8SafYegYy5IqrDxJ75839eWFBe8V1IZGCTZB_4jsAGOzQYBmjh_MF5JpxGY6hCiJIg4Gt6eG5wijFzBKpW8HuHVfGFPfgqQcLca/s640/blogger-image-523517453.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>I get into Burney, the driver drops me off at Safeway, and quickly buy the extra food I need after that snafu with the resupply I sent to the wrong place from Chester.</div><div><br></div><div>Burny isn't quite as hiker-friendly as most towns I'm used to. The McDonalds and Subway don't let customers use their wall outlets and the waitress at the diner looked at me like I was crazy when I asked if they had a table next to a power outlet. </div><div><br></div><div>Luckily I stumble onto a small coffee shop attached to a nondescript stucco church. It's hot and the coffee shop is empty. I'm so excited! They have ice and espresso and USB outlets right in the walls. I slump in a chair with my two bags of groceries and begin to recover from the heat.</div><div><br></div><div>Three hours later the pastor drives me to the trailhead on his way to a chiropractor appointment. I feel especially dirty in the front seat of this spotless new sedan with the pastor and youth minister of this church. He askes me about the trail politely, but I think he knows that he and I live in two different worlds.</div><div><br></div><div>Back on trail I immediately walk into more trail magic. There are no trail angels, but there are coolers of drinks, a tall wooden cabinet of food, and a solar shower. That's right, someone built a solar shower and hauled it into the middle of the woods just for PCT hikers. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9gCw0V1rIZpaF09Sh9hoqH3WP6D0-QHwIgPzIB4OA1UpBc28YgrxV46wS2hq-0AHs90nVPbEHuQw16n7JIoBK5csyIvCoSgaPyNFFXyvtBEcVr4eKzqmciLRFs2Cumc4qgKZFc6fwBcI7/s640/blogger-image-2092816470.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9gCw0V1rIZpaF09Sh9hoqH3WP6D0-QHwIgPzIB4OA1UpBc28YgrxV46wS2hq-0AHs90nVPbEHuQw16n7JIoBK5csyIvCoSgaPyNFFXyvtBEcVr4eKzqmciLRFs2Cumc4qgKZFc6fwBcI7/s640/blogger-image-2092816470.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>My first shower since Chester! Feeling clean I stroll a few miles into a camp near Burney Falls State Park.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiobsIaKePPMJaulNmZ0SXxfDlJFt9dhV-z3EQZujR5-M2ojgN_BwG6TrgFnFkPk6tYw9BoN6L5ml2hDIWEE8QjAfaxJxFZVy2gPsJel45k5UYXDKhbxwMobLWqueY10TjBch43HBfa9EDU/s640/blogger-image--849745060.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiobsIaKePPMJaulNmZ0SXxfDlJFt9dhV-z3EQZujR5-M2ojgN_BwG6TrgFnFkPk6tYw9BoN6L5ml2hDIWEE8QjAfaxJxFZVy2gPsJel45k5UYXDKhbxwMobLWqueY10TjBch43HBfa9EDU/s640/blogger-image--849745060.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div><div>Day 101</div><div>Miles 1423-1441</div><div><br></div><div>The trail has left the flat, hot, dry Hat Creek area and today I'm back in the mountains. Yippee! I never thought I'd appreciate elevation change this much, but it's so great to have tree cover again. This morning I crossed Burney Falls State Park and the Lake Britton dam. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcHuaaK2OegCtIoi27tACM_staaik0rwXeH8GJjfKZiOa9xULTQDQdzYqIvaskHR0hTAPZuGq9f4P1gN6aM6op3mhjfYiVjaz1JCqGXSQnWOM8KbE1DdX2jpjHGUo4ro6kBO4a2Q_dcV46/s640/blogger-image--1176676888.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcHuaaK2OegCtIoi27tACM_staaik0rwXeH8GJjfKZiOa9xULTQDQdzYqIvaskHR0hTAPZuGq9f4P1gN6aM6op3mhjfYiVjaz1JCqGXSQnWOM8KbE1DdX2jpjHGUo4ro6kBO4a2Q_dcV46/s640/blogger-image--1176676888.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Now I'm going to take a break and start another new daily habit- yoga! I'm hoping that more stretching will help with the foot pain and soreness. I know these pains are both inevitable on the PCT, but I hope stretching will help at least a little.</div><div><br></div><div>Oh my goodness. There's a frog in this tree and I don't think he realizes that I can see him.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyAyG-45nLRAM49YOu-qfFZTb3kxP7ywdZPBhrdnYtow9t11Kik0JwRFSvQ3vjdJh0TDneK1LcwW3Mf22a8d_IdylIIK-gnksPpvQBXLTlx0tJ0-ysPEzMltCn9AOjo5aEKM3Qd0YieHFq/s640/blogger-image-1136014104.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyAyG-45nLRAM49YOu-qfFZTb3kxP7ywdZPBhrdnYtow9t11Kik0JwRFSvQ3vjdJh0TDneK1LcwW3Mf22a8d_IdylIIK-gnksPpvQBXLTlx0tJ0-ysPEzMltCn9AOjo5aEKM3Qd0YieHFq/s640/blogger-image-1136014104.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I come across a footprint in the trail that someone has circled. Is this a mountain lion? </div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7xGGVLkbBeymDkgNrxBpQU2yjDBKcXf8RvWxgTtFb2-2YN5bWZIa-vTprPm4ppC9LhK3nTVB6RrGmyAjPM5Tml9XRTeN6Fd__qw597EXATgeXnYtAI9JLvuKXeWZYv3sJlJTNxViOKaoh/s640/blogger-image--2046033397.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7xGGVLkbBeymDkgNrxBpQU2yjDBKcXf8RvWxgTtFb2-2YN5bWZIa-vTprPm4ppC9LhK3nTVB6RrGmyAjPM5Tml9XRTeN6Fd__qw597EXATgeXnYtAI9JLvuKXeWZYv3sJlJTNxViOKaoh/s640/blogger-image--2046033397.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>As I go up in elevation the humidity stays high and the undergrowth gets thicker, blocking any wind that might otherwise blow through.The heat is opressive and I stop when I feel a breeze at every dirt road and power-line clear cut that I pass.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhOQpo5wUYz39GKw1uzdJhBzjiTVOlxjEvfoNynWcqirzlvPi1oVw1DiU1nXIOoYQONLxCQ7OccFpj7lg22TAPEnGmJrc4SF5YyYmPq1rCr4eVnREDD_hlXpqbQshRe8ShpGf88AakM4wi/s640/blogger-image-2041848444.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhOQpo5wUYz39GKw1uzdJhBzjiTVOlxjEvfoNynWcqirzlvPi1oVw1DiU1nXIOoYQONLxCQ7OccFpj7lg22TAPEnGmJrc4SF5YyYmPq1rCr4eVnREDD_hlXpqbQshRe8ShpGf88AakM4wi/s640/blogger-image-2041848444.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Camp site? No. This rabbit let me get within 2 feet of him and he won't run away. I think he's claiming this space as his own so I move on.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzanxW4905xh6MW8pAeSGIQcZlzpNCy6jZSrvRDuH-dmgdBIVPooffPAcZDhTzfUh3wXTfIMoHwI2Qy_DyexNqe9ntPfXqP8BSLESQveIVFhRXT4IzqPVk3AA5wA0a94eIthmizNG2MDYx/s640/blogger-image--2130327633.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzanxW4905xh6MW8pAeSGIQcZlzpNCy6jZSrvRDuH-dmgdBIVPooffPAcZDhTzfUh3wXTfIMoHwI2Qy_DyexNqe9ntPfXqP8BSLESQveIVFhRXT4IzqPVk3AA5wA0a94eIthmizNG2MDYx/s640/blogger-image--2130327633.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div><div>Hiking alone can be a huge relief for introverts like myself.<font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"> I can hike entire days without worrying about anyone else's schedule or feelings. I</font><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> don't mean that to sound harsh, in fact I love talking about feelings, but having days of absolute freedom and solitude is incredible. </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">That being said, today I feel a little lonely. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Hopefully I'll run into more hikers soon.</span></div><div><br></div><div>Day 102</div><div>1441-1458</div><div><br></div><div>The trail stays high on ridges <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">and the views get progressively better as the day goes on. Mt Shasta is breathtaking from any angle.</span></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidyj1ys-EvdUGqX44EYkhbrtpds10ug0u7zXYl5ep0DmnyNbrWBUDZW_HmiUO0y8BRngEWHWvtCnfCATj7Di3eXhQbtqLlNx_OD7L0yK-kUTCKpub04lgzLUcWH7SBFuGDVtTDpyp2Qlkg/s640/blogger-image--506064410.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidyj1ys-EvdUGqX44EYkhbrtpds10ug0u7zXYl5ep0DmnyNbrWBUDZW_HmiUO0y8BRngEWHWvtCnfCATj7Di3eXhQbtqLlNx_OD7L0yK-kUTCKpub04lgzLUcWH7SBFuGDVtTDpyp2Qlkg/s640/blogger-image--506064410.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDr4ZbmNALrze38WOCZO-0_YVaZfu4yUdOvt5lJ0fT0sDzC2p0JXPhGbR-lVPzC1aQACR4RZGUFmnCdS2OA5zeKoa4e31M6ZdwQUn69UmYMp_N35zezncvbzTCoTtljx8Eei8lppABDaHP/s640/blogger-image--1922165439.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDr4ZbmNALrze38WOCZO-0_YVaZfu4yUdOvt5lJ0fT0sDzC2p0JXPhGbR-lVPzC1aQACR4RZGUFmnCdS2OA5zeKoa4e31M6ZdwQUn69UmYMp_N35zezncvbzTCoTtljx8Eei8lppABDaHP/s640/blogger-image--1922165439.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>I experiment with the timer function of my camera as an excuse to spend more time on a particularly flat rock looking south-east towards Lassen.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWX0HZiY3C_xKxf-W_4Dfquv_JKuR-YcusMudsg48uYKRyOIT48IVgXjRAC31Gc8AOVP5iHrb6hIR-NEFX0QZ3QJWCNa6Kq4ClUvsbT2kumVkGMRKeEZARDEcrLey6XxhBDREftM3GfCrv/s640/blogger-image--2087368394.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWX0HZiY3C_xKxf-W_4Dfquv_JKuR-YcusMudsg48uYKRyOIT48IVgXjRAC31Gc8AOVP5iHrb6hIR-NEFX0QZ3QJWCNa6Kq4ClUvsbT2kumVkGMRKeEZARDEcrLey6XxhBDREftM3GfCrv/s640/blogger-image--2087368394.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>I float down the trail in a growing breeze. At the top of the ridge the sky is cloudy and there's motion in the air, but it's warm so the ever constant humidity feels more supportive than opressive.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhauO2BIGWCIJB3BeAtfy3DqB74KSdqBnQujwd-pGTheBo9Z7itE-fQs2zVFWvEP9cUL77-ZtdbmXtsD-AUgdUNBaHm3HJUpogUBW4Wmbh4iXVckv1-YBWAP3KvPcPtPJ3tsCoRvUDJh1Qc/s640/blogger-image-1674325253.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhauO2BIGWCIJB3BeAtfy3DqB74KSdqBnQujwd-pGTheBo9Z7itE-fQs2zVFWvEP9cUL77-ZtdbmXtsD-AUgdUNBaHm3HJUpogUBW4Wmbh4iXVckv1-YBWAP3KvPcPtPJ3tsCoRvUDJh1Qc/s640/blogger-image-1674325253.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>I set up camp early. I got word today that my dad is flying into Redding and he'll be visiting me on trail. He'll be here in two days and I'm only 18 miles from where I'll be meeting him, so there's no need to hike quickly. I set up my tent on top of a hill with a clear view of Shasta. Once again, I'm blown away by these views.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8MDknRJS0KCH8gr8JQgx6EKOAPmMjnHjjgcujSlAUNAiX3aVCwLFf9TWReDgPkgSph4JeSODTmkvPsHo48fIL1xqk-Ibk-xoAnnblUTpo1XVd0AU-b0OArGCxDp7gkhlx_snkVs98iSkh/s640/blogger-image-1390304515.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8MDknRJS0KCH8gr8JQgx6EKOAPmMjnHjjgcujSlAUNAiX3aVCwLFf9TWReDgPkgSph4JeSODTmkvPsHo48fIL1xqk-Ibk-xoAnnblUTpo1XVd0AU-b0OArGCxDp7gkhlx_snkVs98iSkh/s640/blogger-image-1390304515.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div><div>Day 103</div><div>Miles <a href="tel:1476-149" x-apple-data-detectors="true" x-apple-data-detectors-type="telephone" x-apple-data-detectors-result="10">14</a>58-1476</div><div><br></div><div>Like yesterday, today I let myself wake up naturally. I start packing when I hear other people passing my tent, but I pack slowly without regard for time.</div><div><br></div><div>It's drizzly this morning, feeling a little like Seattle does for much of the year. I use my umbrella to stay dry, opening and closing it with the rain, never having to stop moving. Who invented the umbrella? This thing is freakin' fantastic.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMk-_6aHI_z5nHLI5H5VXt_gHgrK9BvC_MhDwVWrQgj3U2pxhXI_4OQaaaAUHIgxmYwaB9L2MS6IutItwmiQz0y4_0Gu4sbxU4ZnUwncr93_DkEIegYelYmNYxhKejHCvnaVwKZuiIiuxA/s640/blogger-image--1266890241.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMk-_6aHI_z5nHLI5H5VXt_gHgrK9BvC_MhDwVWrQgj3U2pxhXI_4OQaaaAUHIgxmYwaB9L2MS6IutItwmiQz0y4_0Gu4sbxU4ZnUwncr93_DkEIegYelYmNYxhKejHCvnaVwKZuiIiuxA/s640/blogger-image--1266890241.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div><div>The bugs in this area are slowly consuming my entire body. I have bites on my toes, feet, legs, the backs of my knees, my lower back, my elbows, my neck, behind one of my ears, and on my face. Other people don't wear bug spray and have one or two bites; I slather my body in deet and am covered in bites literally from head to toe.</div><div><br></div><div>I'm also bad at scratching. I'm bleeding from somewhere new every day. I've thought about keeping a record just for the heck of it. I have an open wound on the top of my foot that won't heal and today my leg is bleeding. B<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">ug bites drive me crazy </span></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRTYdTVm7IU8yHeVoBd7eTgbfkybW8fN4Fmf_J2Ap6yRj0WSZq6zoaKTYiNVUSzIiNa58PRNyURg6VITpoqLcRdMLK84XZOocnWbxBuSbakKEff0A0L7BQAiI1OfAJBtfxyXhrk2icHbXF/s640/blogger-image-1531875654.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRTYdTVm7IU8yHeVoBd7eTgbfkybW8fN4Fmf_J2Ap6yRj0WSZq6zoaKTYiNVUSzIiNa58PRNyURg6VITpoqLcRdMLK84XZOocnWbxBuSbakKEff0A0L7BQAiI1OfAJBtfxyXhrk2icHbXF/s640/blogger-image-1531875654.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>It's an easy day and I cruise down the trail past a bunch of folks I know (hello Whistle, Go-Go Gadget, Scorpion, Pollack, and even Medicine Man from back in Idyllwild) and even more folks that I've never met. I've been alone for so long, it's almost over-stimulating to meet so many new people at once. I guess I asked to see more hikers and the trail provides!</div><div><br></div><div>Oh yeah, I met a girl named Tick Tock who said that my brother gave her a hitch back in Big Bear. Thank you brother for helping out a fellow hiker!</div><div><br></div><div>Tomorrow morning my dad will be here and we'll spend the day in Shasta City. After that he'll join me for a short day on trail. I'm thinking of skipping the next town and packing 9 days of food out of Shasta City. I wonder, can I do it or will I be crushed under the weight of that much ramen and granola?</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860000285673806917.post-76344500670868639602014-07-10T12:27:00.001-07:002014-07-10T12:27:08.106-07:00PCT Days 83-93Day 83<div>Miles 1127-1143</div><div><br></div><div>I manage to wake up at 5:30, even though I pulled all the curtains shut last night to keep out any light. It's like my body knows when the sun is rising even when I'm tucked away in a motel room cave.</div><div><br></div><div>I look at my phone and see that Carl, the guy who gave me a ride to Tahoe City yesterday during the storm, texted me during the night. He and his sister have to work earlier than expected today and can't give me a ride back to the trailhead. Damn! <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I sit in bed and devise a plan; I'll walk to the bagel place down the street, take a bus to Barker Pass road, and hitch the last 12 miles up the mountain. </span></div><div><br></div><div>There are public docks everywhere on the roads leading into Tahoe City and I choose the closest tp the bagel shop to sit and eat my breakfast.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8fCRY25_ndLjFFqhENoOaMEqIoly_3EIeq54DCDq4ieofl4KfWPqiA3zBBYP4PqqLJoWnolgIZ-FaULoe9ShPm2dzzLW4Lw7s44If780xR44p9L_fGSSOqRMHJGBcIAIeWGKAmX_sAgLV/s640/blogger-image--1072614098.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8fCRY25_ndLjFFqhENoOaMEqIoly_3EIeq54DCDq4ieofl4KfWPqiA3zBBYP4PqqLJoWnolgIZ-FaULoe9ShPm2dzzLW4Lw7s44If780xR44p9L_fGSSOqRMHJGBcIAIeWGKAmX_sAgLV/s640/blogger-image--1072614098.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Surprisingly the rest of my plan goes smoothly. The bagel is delicious, the bus comes right after I get to the bus stop, and the first car to pass me on the road picks me up. They drive me most of the way to the pass, but I have to walk the last 2 miles up the steep road. Does this count towards my daily mileage total, I wonder, because it should. </div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS3msL94gcy8Ik-uicBGWUHkS03gfbnZf638AqDRpujN_YhHyFeOFiqNSZLigZ9PsjVqBoAJ-AaCz-vojOLVwKbR07FXUdvm3mmjGyrWVkSwrEfCvXFJDK6rTxyYCC27Pn3N7QeVzPsZNX/s640/blogger-image--1530258467.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS3msL94gcy8Ik-uicBGWUHkS03gfbnZf638AqDRpujN_YhHyFeOFiqNSZLigZ9PsjVqBoAJ-AaCz-vojOLVwKbR07FXUdvm3mmjGyrWVkSwrEfCvXFJDK6rTxyYCC27Pn3N7QeVzPsZNX/s640/blogger-image--1530258467.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Back on trail I immediately start climbing up a ridge. The trail crests the ridge and enters the Granite Chief Wilderness. Cool name.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzWE_RfkWg_g-YU_RaHRLoXIkmruYTcQR9uOuzW8_RHFrDycyAa28aKknfmcyoFEIKm0ux8k8235bNLEEORGnWwbOGwxXtqsf_WBDYlkjgPVDq-q7NjMdQfGaO0erHvynBbX0jiUdZ-z53/s640/blogger-image--1244355335.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzWE_RfkWg_g-YU_RaHRLoXIkmruYTcQR9uOuzW8_RHFrDycyAa28aKknfmcyoFEIKm0ux8k8235bNLEEORGnWwbOGwxXtqsf_WBDYlkjgPVDq-q7NjMdQfGaO0erHvynBbX0jiUdZ-z53/s640/blogger-image--1244355335.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The trail stays high for most of the rest of the day. I take my lunch break on spot overlooking Lake Tahoe and notice that I have cell service. I record videos and send them to my friends and coworkers back home.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiqQ_3zvQIDVqognfYq2BCUGnUITUfSQxqfKX86jJP1tJBm_MexEju4cxLu1xEuSEeMwvtDuNm1353ME51L6GY7GscgFjRFhPDv-9tS8055q8t28574VgV6yZ2MaWOxzBqqAys84fAwjC-/s640/blogger-image-1073060161.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiqQ_3zvQIDVqognfYq2BCUGnUITUfSQxqfKX86jJP1tJBm_MexEju4cxLu1xEuSEeMwvtDuNm1353ME51L6GY7GscgFjRFhPDv-9tS8055q8t28574VgV6yZ2MaWOxzBqqAys84fAwjC-/s640/blogger-image-1073060161.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Walking along the ridge, I wonder when I'll see another thru hiker and who it will be. After my unexpected stop in Tahoe City I'm at least a day behind Go-Go, Washpot, Soapbox, and Butters. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">As the trail enters the Squaw Valley Ski Resort, home of some old Winter Olympics, I spot someone far ahead of me taking photos. I recognize the backpack... it's Tortuga! <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I haven't seen Tortuga since Kennedy Meadows North, so I catch up and say hello. He's equally excited to see me and mentions that he has been camping alone the past few days. He also says that he saw the Bubbies this morning and they should only be a few miles ahead. Awesome! This means I'm sandwhiched between a ton of people I enjoy; Moxie, the Bubbies, Soapbox, and the rest are in front and the Germans, Rocket, and Sug/Lingo are behind.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnQn75DWg4SPQ2uVC8h8lSgYbn4YkrnbI-EUxzJnvPhzTMx1GKsMi48zWQc5FzkaFb6jZIwI1EcqFd1XMyk5OS9aLiFD7giji7DmIfBQCgvaWTxSY3RC-p5EF-GOL_KOWHQEfzLFlPEupO/s640/blogger-image--1276799416.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnQn75DWg4SPQ2uVC8h8lSgYbn4YkrnbI-EUxzJnvPhzTMx1GKsMi48zWQc5FzkaFb6jZIwI1EcqFd1XMyk5OS9aLiFD7giji7DmIfBQCgvaWTxSY3RC-p5EF-GOL_KOWHQEfzLFlPEupO/s640/blogger-image--1276799416.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I hike with Tortuga for a time and stop when I reach Squaw Creek. This is the last water source for a while and I want to be able to cook my dinner and drink my fill before moving on tomorrow. I set up my tent on a windy ridge, put on the rainfly and tie everything down tightly. It's nice having solid, sturdy gear that I trust. Life is good back on the trail.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Day 84</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Miles 1143-1163</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I get out of my tent quickly between strong gusts of wind to avoid freezing my butt off. The sun is up and I shove everything into my bag and start down the mountain as quickly as possible.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I hike alone for most of the day, stopping often to look at the huge fields of Mule's Ear and Indian Paintbrush that seem to cover entire hillsides in this area.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1kXmmFNgBqjOisfUCnyhpZVh4aHir0w1JJ2ofkS6BaCHG-4NMKzPTMhqHTpmDiMMaLsFaJRhBptNiGTSSD62yzorEdr4VYkyqzQGM4MudVFxNfj7jashBogv9K7oA4rwqecuKcSIriVK_/s640/blogger-image--1561614935.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1kXmmFNgBqjOisfUCnyhpZVh4aHir0w1JJ2ofkS6BaCHG-4NMKzPTMhqHTpmDiMMaLsFaJRhBptNiGTSSD62yzorEdr4VYkyqzQGM4MudVFxNfj7jashBogv9K7oA4rwqecuKcSIriVK_/s640/blogger-image--1561614935.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; clear: both;">Over the past few days butterflies have been flying around everywhere. Tiny white ones, big monarch-looking yellow ones, and these beautiful medium ones painted fiery shades of orange, yellow, and red.</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGrvs3rytF9XujSPtxubQsEqV42dlEMBjJDYpQKKufdt05C01dDU2uW6JFjzGyqSpz1m2s4PRcvaAH82bo_7zKmbavWt_KWKFjzCOv81uilzUdBi6boYG4Wg0wQvoVq8MeoSKUxSDLyD2V/s640/blogger-image--744587543.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGrvs3rytF9XujSPtxubQsEqV42dlEMBjJDYpQKKufdt05C01dDU2uW6JFjzGyqSpz1m2s4PRcvaAH82bo_7zKmbavWt_KWKFjzCOv81uilzUdBi6boYG4Wg0wQvoVq8MeoSKUxSDLyD2V/s640/blogger-image--744587543.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO24owp5un_9bHluPQP1j2oWRkD5ll5SelHeuG915ZqX1OiL1SiAKRc9YFQ7vO-r0CXJ5fAkLNUMV_UTkVyzVthtiu4vGgvJYlE2vZjGvPrhTtTPRvYpt62eLqWPayhyphenhyphen7WYGcZXEl1C6D5/s640/blogger-image-849854073.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO24owp5un_9bHluPQP1j2oWRkD5ll5SelHeuG915ZqX1OiL1SiAKRc9YFQ7vO-r0CXJ5fAkLNUMV_UTkVyzVthtiu4vGgvJYlE2vZjGvPrhTtTPRvYpt62eLqWPayhyphenhyphen7WYGcZXEl1C6D5/s640/blogger-image-849854073.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC3g1L_yPuMpVfxYScnaFJkAEXpOHlpKAx8L_svmGHyOrC5450AYxeTUg3AsJryJn9YcxS0SovPdKYXGkMkYfW-is3cBl-_zQ_z7ibgFntLGdo4M9qG-yx8cSqQ0zgjS2DUTANUVMoh-hQ/s640/blogger-image--1683133817.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC3g1L_yPuMpVfxYScnaFJkAEXpOHlpKAx8L_svmGHyOrC5450AYxeTUg3AsJryJn9YcxS0SovPdKYXGkMkYfW-is3cBl-_zQ_z7ibgFntLGdo4M9qG-yx8cSqQ0zgjS2DUTANUVMoh-hQ/s640/blogger-image--1683133817.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Getting close to Donner Pass (both a mountain pass with a history of cannibalism and a highway) I come across Reno Dave giving trail magic to passing hikers. He has a bear can full of ice, Sprite, and PBR. He gives me a cold PBR and I drink it as he tells me about what's in front of me- easy trail and a ski-lodge restaurant open for the weekend. FOOD! I say goodbye to Reno Dave and finish the descent into Donner Pass drinking a PBR and dreaming of restaurant food.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB39aICNinwPh4Wo0ufE3JkMeLgqhdF8y2WXA8iPeaqjj5vIBKSlwc5IzNasdhzOHr0pw0NtTw9cJJQqwBRQdEa8L0R2-LpHJQEEbzK1tgLSpGi5BbsPi_GF6JN7OwPuicLa7MihZiDZac/s640/blogger-image--1666570708.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB39aICNinwPh4Wo0ufE3JkMeLgqhdF8y2WXA8iPeaqjj5vIBKSlwc5IzNasdhzOHr0pw0NtTw9cJJQqwBRQdEa8L0R2-LpHJQEEbzK1tgLSpGi5BbsPi_GF6JN7OwPuicLa7MihZiDZac/s640/blogger-image--1666570708.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Right before reaching the highway I pass Robin, who I also haven't seen some Kennedy Meadows North. She's injured and limping, but still managing to hike some pretty big miles. We walk to the restaurant together and find Quinoa sitting, eating, and watching the World Cup. We join him for a while and I eat a big chicken sandwhich, fries, and a nice cream sandwhich. I have another beer, my second of the day, and cringe at he idea of leaving the restaurant to walk more. I need a nap. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Reluctantly I hike out of Donner Pass with Robin and Quinoa. Back on the trail we pass Estero, Acorn, and Fence, all going to the same destination that we had in mind. We all walk the remaining 5 miles together to the Peter Grub Hut, a Sierra Club hut built for skiers who find themselves in incliment weather.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-0LPslpT_bTMliJQjyPoF78EE07iq7aWLiMGRqeh2-2Aa68zIPrOUdeqpHs2SpdBi_t4FpkUjpSjtx4luCvHGPiMOkr8HL8KYU2BNOvZ9_a5wWhjhnoQ6GkEJRGpUMmDGnxBzVhm48OD5/s640/blogger-image--304620595.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-0LPslpT_bTMliJQjyPoF78EE07iq7aWLiMGRqeh2-2Aa68zIPrOUdeqpHs2SpdBi_t4FpkUjpSjtx4luCvHGPiMOkr8HL8KYU2BNOvZ9_a5wWhjhnoQ6GkEJRGpUMmDGnxBzVhm48OD5/s640/blogger-image--304620595.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We all pack in to the top floor of the hut and lay out our bags. We're quickly joined by Tortuga and a hiker I've never met named Sock Pot. Apparently he got his name for cleaning his socks in his cooking pot. Gross!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We all chat and push our bags close together, making more room for the other hikers. It smells awful having this many hikers in such a confined place, but Fence finds some playing cards and we all play Egyptian Ratscrew until we're too tired to continue. Long day, good night.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div>Day 85</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Miles 1163-1193</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Although I had high hopes of getting up today by 5, I wake up at 6 and roll over to sleep a half hour longer. When I leave the cabin at 7 I'm the first to hike out. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The trail today is gentle, cresting a few ridges early in the day then descending lower and lower into a long valley. My goal is to hike as far as possible today, making tomorrow just a short walk into Sierra City. Some of the other folks I camped with last night plan on hiking 30 miles today, so I tag along for the support. It's much easier to keep a steady pace when you're moving with a group.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifEojgvOdU43ftJvHMUnPMup64A9kZ0FzBqGLPvk4ELSVukcDkGHs2WixTSNJLL87sRlaGkfKfubTzA4tnRT5iYTfdJqukr99ajnAK0z27Tdn-4MW89M_kbY4kiLJnnik22hd23vQTK8e0/s640/blogger-image--1255757080.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifEojgvOdU43ftJvHMUnPMup64A9kZ0FzBqGLPvk4ELSVukcDkGHs2WixTSNJLL87sRlaGkfKfubTzA4tnRT5iYTfdJqukr99ajnAK0z27Tdn-4MW89M_kbY4kiLJnnik22hd23vQTK8e0/s640/blogger-image--1255757080.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The day goes by in a blur. We stop for few breaks, trying to keep up our momentum. We hit 30 miles by 7pm. I'm fed, in bed, and falling asleep by 8. My feet took a beating today and it shows!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKznC7JI2YMYNqU-9taVgNcV7T4f1EUKAr1Vz8U0958pdAgz_J3ET5t09-yHHxz_Zaq1xZB3Cp6dERJ3wT6Ll9I7ud0EW2idxKASJMjmYRMkrJO0p8NOiIwimxn51DXlodT1LjU8-sEAep/s640/blogger-image--1266384636.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKznC7JI2YMYNqU-9taVgNcV7T4f1EUKAr1Vz8U0958pdAgz_J3ET5t09-yHHxz_Zaq1xZB3Cp6dERJ3wT6Ll9I7ud0EW2idxKASJMjmYRMkrJO0p8NOiIwimxn51DXlodT1LjU8-sEAep/s640/blogger-image--1266384636.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Day 86</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Miles 1193-1205</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I wake up to the sound of an animal outside of my tent. It's still dark out and I sit up to see what's going on.<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">My backpack doesn't fit inside my tent and I usually lean it up against the front corner of the tent next to my head.</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> As I lift my head to look out, a mouse scurries across my backpack, not two inches from my face. They must smell the food in my pack and are t</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">rying to chew their way in. </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I get up, hang my pack from a tree branch away from my tent, and go back to sleep.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">When I get up again it's light outside and I pack my things while everyone else is still sleeping. There's food, showers, and laundry in 12 miles and I don't want to delay. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Six miles into my hike the trail deadends and I turn onto</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> a road. I step out onto the road and suddenly there's a big crash. I look to my left and see a huge black bear maybe six feet away, turning and running back into the forest. It's funny, but my first thought is, "Oh shit, where's my camera?!" It's too late though, the bear is gone. That was my first bear sighting on the PCT!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Sierra City is a tiny town with a few motels, a bar, and a general store with a food counter. They welcome PCT hikers, which seems logical as they don't seem to have many other customers. "For sale" signs are in from of almost every business in town.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4DhIARPAZMYKyWdve_v7jZ8j7zRelydys6UtftA_NKhvDZ6GSfJ88IeG_HwxMxDkvXm1IqqAbEt-0JVg34JeBjLjqtCvEdqSxomb1RL6EkIgxAexKQxyhyphenhyphenUg07Y1Vkqd2IftnVxqkyHot/s640/blogger-image--1835544495.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4DhIARPAZMYKyWdve_v7jZ8j7zRelydys6UtftA_NKhvDZ6GSfJ88IeG_HwxMxDkvXm1IqqAbEt-0JVg34JeBjLjqtCvEdqSxomb1RL6EkIgxAexKQxyhyphenhyphenUg07Y1Vkqd2IftnVxqkyHot/s640/blogger-image--1835544495.jpg"></a></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I stop at the Red Moose Inn for some breakfast, then walk down the street to the little store. The store doesn't open till 10am, so I lay in the shade and relax for a while. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">A bunch of other hikers have been in town for a few days watching the World Cup: Relay, Soapbox, Pedi, Baggins, and many more. Some of these trail names are so weird I have a hard time remembering them! I also meet Colin, a really friendly guy from San Francisco who started the trail in Echo Lake a few days ago. He's planning on hiking from Echo Lake to Canada, then coming back to finish the first 1200 miles southbound.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJH3MfImZ5RP400Brf1yQw6uD5JNXJPGoYzn8JQt3MLeHZ9VpL_b0USOGcVgx6sSO3w9W5uZ76TrSE4iNIz9Pk3edAoTa92Z-DzFNOpqk-cAU4mkpEX2wxgxMBAzrGzkXCQvdXkt2wll8e/s640/blogger-image--1075735965.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJH3MfImZ5RP400Brf1yQw6uD5JNXJPGoYzn8JQt3MLeHZ9VpL_b0USOGcVgx6sSO3w9W5uZ76TrSE4iNIz9Pk3edAoTa92Z-DzFNOpqk-cAU4mkpEX2wxgxMBAzrGzkXCQvdXkt2wll8e/s640/blogger-image--1075735965.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Once the store opens I pick up my packages (new insoles, water treatment drops, and a book) and resupply for the next few days. I'm so excited to change my insoles, I've had the old ones since Campo!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaUdykOyIM6JZ1akrCzLSlvfCXL6xueugA3f8Br_egmgaRmrUI57k5lRA65D7_7cIZlA3S2k9sGC6OAiHvplHz7AwPGsFqOGb1DXIuH2KgDRSSkLOTGRmOZnNhNkAbB9cbY5J_78P8A9hO/s640/blogger-image--711381381.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaUdykOyIM6JZ1akrCzLSlvfCXL6xueugA3f8Br_egmgaRmrUI57k5lRA65D7_7cIZlA3S2k9sGC6OAiHvplHz7AwPGsFqOGb1DXIuH2KgDRSSkLOTGRmOZnNhNkAbB9cbY5J_78P8A9hO/s640/blogger-image--711381381.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">As I'm packing the next few days worth of food into my pack, I notice a hole in the side of one of my hip pockets. It's the pocket where I always have some snacks and my mind immediately goes back to the mice last night. One must have chewed it's way through the pocket while it hung on the tree. Damn mice! Luckily Soapbox lends me his needle and thread and I roughly sew the hole back up.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Back in the store I order one of their trail-famous Gutbuster Burgers. It's a one pound beef patty topped with onion, tomato, bacon, pickle, lettuce, and cheese. Holy cow it's delicious.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik8uqPaw60Z89G6Ln_QkCub_7XKfQBf0tYOStszfENk7Bi3ea8z8hQZ0G1SRxdfa3YNv2t1uPzwgljisVc8pLMlX_x8yXXgms0wfFXoMsMqG90bC1o4w15DXGYeb0-c7BIQhm1gsu879Pq/s640/blogger-image-1422529334.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik8uqPaw60Z89G6Ln_QkCub_7XKfQBf0tYOStszfENk7Bi3ea8z8hQZ0G1SRxdfa3YNv2t1uPzwgljisVc8pLMlX_x8yXXgms0wfFXoMsMqG90bC1o4w15DXGYeb0-c7BIQhm1gsu879Pq/s640/blogger-image-1422529334.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">After eating the giant burger and an equally giant burrito, it's time to hike out. The temperature was over 100 degrees earlier, but has cooled off to 90 degrees by 6pm. I hike out of town with Colin and quickly get a hitch back to the trailhead. It's a long climb out of Sierra City and we switchback up the mountain for two hours until we reach the top. The sunset is incredible as we ascend.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNqfRuBa_vwuaCzvZMr4H9OWIci3MX8zW-WPq-NPZz1FVEOrG0-UX09LckijixzA49PaPSUiDQNuGVsS0WDzSLYmV-bwa3euZqSj4GCtkRD8y9pKrf5m8U_4y4e1Ghm86oY9M-1C71rAVS/s640/blogger-image-541439227.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNqfRuBa_vwuaCzvZMr4H9OWIci3MX8zW-WPq-NPZz1FVEOrG0-UX09LckijixzA49PaPSUiDQNuGVsS0WDzSLYmV-bwa3euZqSj4GCtkRD8y9pKrf5m8U_4y4e1Ghm86oY9M-1C71rAVS/s640/blogger-image-541439227.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Day 87</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Miles <a href="tel:1205-122" x-apple-data-detectors="true" x-apple-data-detectors-type="telephone" x-apple-data-detectors-result="4">1205-12</a>30</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Today I hike most of the day with Colin. Its another scorcher and I dream of jumping into a lake. We see lake after lake below us, but the trail stays high and dry.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0BYcXLwnQJMqjI3vLE2XzOy1LeLLJnceD1KQzFCocQznRH6FcwbjWYkHBBIowasz4K1yK_iomFv1ElO8zuCbME_s1IHVsSmjEcjNAAdldU4P-2-YHc5zeokn33291Rt-NscZbaeYBRzj9/s640/blogger-image-808953059.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0BYcXLwnQJMqjI3vLE2XzOy1LeLLJnceD1KQzFCocQznRH6FcwbjWYkHBBIowasz4K1yK_iomFv1ElO8zuCbME_s1IHVsSmjEcjNAAdldU4P-2-YHc5zeokn33291Rt-NscZbaeYBRzj9/s640/blogger-image-808953059.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDkxRVKtvuCLUfzsndml5VyuiV98B9Wppdo2vVUvJ7KcTGTE0AVzYO-neiePVORIDJmkazCEROTDWIz161F3wGOAu9Lwjv3gdiYK8QKOYY_8KuaoRBK1IXbUTYd0Q666oYm40deBPkly7-/s640/blogger-image--829060831.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDkxRVKtvuCLUfzsndml5VyuiV98B9Wppdo2vVUvJ7KcTGTE0AVzYO-neiePVORIDJmkazCEROTDWIz161F3wGOAu9Lwjv3gdiYK8QKOYY_8KuaoRBK1IXbUTYd0Q666oYm40deBPkly7-/s640/blogger-image--829060831.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I make it to camp by 6 and sit down to cook my dinner. More hikers start rolling into the tiny campsite wanting to stop for the day: Fence, Colin, Cheese, Sockpot. They say that even more hikers are planning to stop here tonight and I'm not sure how everyone will fit. Although I hate night hiking, I decide to continue for a few more miles until I find another spot to camp.</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaTUtfuKor4eBbxqzzlpS46fWVDpYc8ONu4Es9U5PP4EgUq2ZLxIpO41M_1bwSE_xyGT4cdL9tZ-g71yhWgay3-3tSL5UmF5kgDb8SBt_rMA3dsAfClkbzwQ-EDeRFtCweH2yXRutHajL9/s640/blogger-image--738111012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaTUtfuKor4eBbxqzzlpS46fWVDpYc8ONu4Es9U5PP4EgUq2ZLxIpO41M_1bwSE_xyGT4cdL9tZ-g71yhWgay3-3tSL5UmF5kgDb8SBt_rMA3dsAfClkbzwQ-EDeRFtCweH2yXRutHajL9/s640/blogger-image--738111012.jpg"></a></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I only plan on hiking a mile or two, but I quickly find myself on the side of a steep mountain with no campsites or flat areas to be found. I keep moving forward, exhausted from a long day, searching for somewhere I can pitch my tent. Close to 10pm the trail finally flattens and I see a large campsite with a fire pit. I quickly set up my tent and crawl inside. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I wake up around midnight to a noise outside of my tent. I sit up and see the light if another hiker's headlamp. I say hello and the hiker screams; it's Colin! Colin laughs, then sets up his tent near mine. I put my head back down and fall asleep much easier, knowing that I'm not camping alone.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I wake up again around 2am to the sound of sticks breaking outside of my tent. I open my eyes, but keep my head on my pillow. The noise gets closer and closer until I hear something crinkling my groundsheet within a foot of my head. The noise moves to my pack, pulling, hitting, maybe even scratching. I think about lifting my head or making noise to scare the creature away, but I don't. I think about what it would be like to lift my head and come face to face, within inches, with a deer or another animal. I'm so tired I just keep my head on my pillow and think to myself, "just go back to sleep." It works and I fall back to sleep, letting the creature outside have it's way with my pack.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Day 88</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Miles 1230-1254</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">This morning there are a few bite marks on some of my straps, not a big deal. <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">The trail today is gentle and I cross logging roads and small cold springs on my way towards my next stop in Belden.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">There's a typo in my guidebook and an important water source isn't where the book says it should be. My water is running low when I spot a road and what looks like trail magic in the distance. I walk towards the coolers, imagining what I might find inside. Maybe there will be water? beer? fruit? I get to the coolers and they're empty, save some bags of trash. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO4DGOt1kka9_RODmI8q60NJek8U6orisicFOuU3NtujwY7kuG30uev-uvMvjCkGV9kAjzQ_4DAVSHCheajJG-NKFqE3GSqocxvuxY2us9wSflDP3BfX_KNh6-5L2VW9nVd2oIjhkkuIfX/s640/blogger-image-2107118733.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO4DGOt1kka9_RODmI8q60NJek8U6orisicFOuU3NtujwY7kuG30uev-uvMvjCkGV9kAjzQ_4DAVSHCheajJG-NKFqE3GSqocxvuxY2us9wSflDP3BfX_KNh6-5L2VW9nVd2oIjhkkuIfX/s640/blogger-image-2107118733.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I'm out of water, but I'm not worried. It's a hot day, but the trail is shaded by forest abs I know I can make it to the next water source in an hour or so. Today I feel like a hiker-trash badass. I'm thirsty, skinny, dirty, tan, and happy.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyHja7zeNe_yU-1_j5EHKGDd5PuhUItZL55nSDMvDsjbjCVTBUb8XuOn4EoUkRX-zL2Pgx_SZ2ZQtqWs4_QfGDdx1tnnSTUCpeSMq-lmgXpFMZDzHnMsgEn_4J5a69tmxIjWiFplMUGEtE/s640/blogger-image--432023231.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyHja7zeNe_yU-1_j5EHKGDd5PuhUItZL55nSDMvDsjbjCVTBUb8XuOn4EoUkRX-zL2Pgx_SZ2ZQtqWs4_QfGDdx1tnnSTUCpeSMq-lmgXpFMZDzHnMsgEn_4J5a69tmxIjWiFplMUGEtE/s640/blogger-image--432023231.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">After lunch I start a long descent to the Feather River. The brush gets thicker as I descend, as does the heat and humidity. When I reach the river I climb down to the shore, strip off my clothes, and jump in. The water is warm and the rocks have created a huge swimming hole, larger than a standard swimming pool. I swim and lay on warm rocks for at least an hour before any other hikers show up. Soon Colin and Fence are swimming too and this spot feels like paradise.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigUda3MxgF9U0mkfyyRz4tyk5B8WBFFvqXye1SeoQWjvyHaZJNvQAwjjHWuhaF_ZKF9E82Z8px9Wh70gXomMJmXkDTlPiMmE55VOMIK9eiomDB6K7At0OEsKD4KvO-i9563Ai4FBJ3G579/s640/blogger-image-317298909.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigUda3MxgF9U0mkfyyRz4tyk5B8WBFFvqXye1SeoQWjvyHaZJNvQAwjjHWuhaF_ZKF9E82Z8px9Wh70gXomMJmXkDTlPiMmE55VOMIK9eiomDB6K7At0OEsKD4KvO-i9563Ai4FBJ3G579/s640/blogger-image-317298909.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Getting ready to leave, I put on my dry clothes and wade back into the river to fill my water bottles. The rocks are alippery and I fall backwards into the river next to Colin and Fence, soaking my clothes. Oh well! I take my clothes off again and wait for them to dry out before hiking on.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">He trail after the river is another climb before dropping down into another river valley. I find a campsite next to Bear Creek and settle down to unpack my things. Looking around I can see that this campsite is full of trash. Someone left a big bag of trash next to the river and half burned Mountain House bags fill the fire ring. They even left their shoes and socks tied to a tree branch. Who hikes out without their shoes, I wonder, maybe they're doing something else and will come back for this stuff?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu5k17DrLRSCQCnfM1hxFEWqrusc6wGPFD5yuukeATR9eq2UrCiq6gXzCkUB2gLiYglIp0vjEHNYYq2PABj8C9Di-ayDHOmxeqDaHdteWLgDhGmSrzh-C_g7q3tMLMTEapGvt_k3sdtO-0/s640/blogger-image-746346151.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu5k17DrLRSCQCnfM1hxFEWqrusc6wGPFD5yuukeATR9eq2UrCiq6gXzCkUB2gLiYglIp0vjEHNYYq2PABj8C9Di-ayDHOmxeqDaHdteWLgDhGmSrzh-C_g7q3tMLMTEapGvt_k3sdtO-0/s640/blogger-image-746346151.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">This might be the buggiest campsite yet and I cook my dinner from onsude of my tent, only sticking my hands outside to work the stove. Colin hikes in a few minutes later, other hikers stayed at the Feather River, and sets up his tent near mine.</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv7WCmEi_GNMTgi8UWBr2vINh9zFIc-ZIMVNROfUsQTOanOR8DmyCM4AY-90IK5UzBYww4vcCxGclfZo3nBTDrGE9YXZHr6AwvZ_FbZ9X6C5bvq7AS2qo5h5BS5EFSHGTzwf8ogzNDIi6I/s640/blogger-image--923973989.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv7WCmEi_GNMTgi8UWBr2vINh9zFIc-ZIMVNROfUsQTOanOR8DmyCM4AY-90IK5UzBYww4vcCxGclfZo3nBTDrGE9YXZHr6AwvZ_FbZ9X6C5bvq7AS2qo5h5BS5EFSHGTzwf8ogzNDIi6I/s640/blogger-image--923973989.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">It's amazing how clean I feel after that swim. What a perfect day! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Day 89</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Miles <a href="tel:1254-127" x-apple-data-detectors="true" x-apple-data-detectors-type="telephone" x-apple-data-detectors-result="6">1254-127</a>4</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I'm put of bed early, once again motivated by food. There's an alternate option on today's hike, taking you off the PCT for 4 miles into a resort area called Bucks Lake. Bucks Lake has a few restaurants so taking that alternate, 6 miles of road walking, is a no-brainier for me.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">First though, I have about her huge climb out if this valley. I huff and puff, but make it out of he valley in pretty good time. Before I hike on, I turn around and take this picture if the valley I just hiked out of.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBzCm7q5ebrnp_U72vgcDx_iSTPmlulqvDF5KGBNWuDyseG5vX7Bje2PjGhhIBCfCcHfaiGzLF3y_FnOOxBs9zfTThprJFtUGcGeNaSe3OV8NWV5gsGD9S1vHK59CWALnXwO6rofG1Rukd/s640/blogger-image--429877136.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBzCm7q5ebrnp_U72vgcDx_iSTPmlulqvDF5KGBNWuDyseG5vX7Bje2PjGhhIBCfCcHfaiGzLF3y_FnOOxBs9zfTThprJFtUGcGeNaSe3OV8NWV5gsGD9S1vHK59CWALnXwO6rofG1Rukd/s640/blogger-image--429877136.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The road to Bucks Lake is flat and beautiful. A few drivers pull over to ask what I'm doing and offer me a ride into town. I decline; I'm taking an alternate, but I still have to walk!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdlH2SVF0DYixzvX7B_NzhopNLGUAehdrsYkfJDIKqpsCG8SToBr23ZcizLPv0I-5C8kXavK1JycVWt85COniboZiUp3EzAX2TGkiSzNkchqN54ZBNws8Qu9Pda9LZDqRXzz9Q_qIS1DFJ/s640/blogger-image--1804520012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdlH2SVF0DYixzvX7B_NzhopNLGUAehdrsYkfJDIKqpsCG8SToBr23ZcizLPv0I-5C8kXavK1JycVWt85COniboZiUp3EzAX2TGkiSzNkchqN54ZBNws8Qu9Pda9LZDqRXzz9Q_qIS1DFJ/s640/blogger-image--1804520012.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I reach a restaurant and sit to have a cold beer. Not five minutes after I arrive, a truck pulls up full of other hikers. They decided to skip the road walk and just hitch the alternate. At first I'm bothered; I woke up earlier than they did and walked on the side of a long, hot road to get here. They're just randomly skipping 4 miles of the PCT and the alternate. I remind myself that we each have to hike our own hike and I try to let go.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Colin is one of the hikers that hitched instead of walking and he walks with me to the next resort, which is supposed to have fantastic made-from-scratch pizza. We split a pizza and a sandwhich and I have three beers. Full and a little drunk, we walk down to the shore of Bucks Lake to have another swim.</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpwKK_TDZkqRvwOeZKo25vcqi8lFgaZYQfwtvrlS57pesjfPksnetsNLbo-NvwT9JbHXZn9T6bhobMV5MlJS8KNyqfaHXLo2U8Sq7DNhla_qzOMpjkP-BW1dZouc-HmE6Wm0rAE7NWr5Lm/s640/blogger-image--904699651.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpwKK_TDZkqRvwOeZKo25vcqi8lFgaZYQfwtvrlS57pesjfPksnetsNLbo-NvwT9JbHXZn9T6bhobMV5MlJS8KNyqfaHXLo2U8Sq7DNhla_qzOMpjkP-BW1dZouc-HmE6Wm0rAE7NWr5Lm/s640/blogger-image--904699651.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">From the restaurant it's still 2 miles back to the trail. Halfway to the trailhead I see the others fly by me again in a car. Sigh.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Back on the trail, it's another long climb out of town. Do you see a pattern here? So many great stops are followed by long, hot, grueling climbs. I enjoy this climb though, the trail is shaded and there are new wildflowers to enjoy.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQXHM8OfD2mMNSYGw4T3AiVJ6j8Sfo-rXnwoENvBqVWBQWpcOi0E_8ZtBL3ST-CvVyykJwERbjBWa2S8mHDD5Q9S71c3Qiw2F7TL7aIdFzaKKAkfKhkgpdE7JAs4QxG5qWE4P1vsMlsR-U/s640/blogger-image--1996801301.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQXHM8OfD2mMNSYGw4T3AiVJ6j8Sfo-rXnwoENvBqVWBQWpcOi0E_8ZtBL3ST-CvVyykJwERbjBWa2S8mHDD5Q9S71c3Qiw2F7TL7aIdFzaKKAkfKhkgpdE7JAs4QxG5qWE4P1vsMlsR-U/s640/blogger-image--1996801301.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I pass at least three new types of wild lillies on the side of the trail.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj07C0zRRcNMimYE2AgMG1b6xqkoo71J9o2ZOs-y7_PicXGQJBjHJwcdlIjvUmr_w9X7rF18WgXZmK9sKRbF7AOdrpCHG3-I2NYrQmAVEdxl3tzs-9ugsiFrNstJ-z7WAtjgIytBu0aSYMi/s640/blogger-image-1768570671.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj07C0zRRcNMimYE2AgMG1b6xqkoo71J9o2ZOs-y7_PicXGQJBjHJwcdlIjvUmr_w9X7rF18WgXZmK9sKRbF7AOdrpCHG3-I2NYrQmAVEdxl3tzs-9ugsiFrNstJ-z7WAtjgIytBu0aSYMi/s640/blogger-image-1768570671.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I think this one is called a Washington Lilly, named after Martha Washington, not the state.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8CjjiiWfmoVAhTxrq6UUVE3Qn3cB9BFNjI4herraaQYvZ5P9UFkHjMBbLj7_ZhOkqYGqhzdjbZ2i-Amo1mRGkxAT-entujrJuTQIp9K2jRu8PkAFNrpmdo1VkYrIVQMzZjPwH1PE4k7m6/s640/blogger-image--631823147.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8CjjiiWfmoVAhTxrq6UUVE3Qn3cB9BFNjI4herraaQYvZ5P9UFkHjMBbLj7_ZhOkqYGqhzdjbZ2i-Amo1mRGkxAT-entujrJuTQIp9K2jRu8PkAFNrpmdo1VkYrIVQMzZjPwH1PE4k7m6/s640/blogger-image--631823147.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I reach the top of the climb as the sun is setting. I see some cliffs in the distance and I really want to call my boyfriend, so I go off-trail plowing my way through bushes to what looks like an outcropping of rocks that I can sit on. To my surprise, there is a flat campsite right below a rock. This might be the most beautiful campsite I've ever seen and I have no choice but to stay. I set up my tent and watch the sun set, casting golden light over Lassen Peak in the distance.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuzmgMij9AOYYZdLlq-RaNKEAGQfhdFLt0qM8tQbWxSCUKfF1-FygEldv4wb5wr0UXZqSzU5TOyvL85552iX19J3QGg1ULzFyGWlskoCqWC5KeRroEYKzc7xzAlDTJKDrnkejDUddkJ58v/s640/blogger-image--726784743.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuzmgMij9AOYYZdLlq-RaNKEAGQfhdFLt0qM8tQbWxSCUKfF1-FygEldv4wb5wr0UXZqSzU5TOyvL85552iX19J3QGg1ULzFyGWlskoCqWC5KeRroEYKzc7xzAlDTJKDrnkejDUddkJ58v/s640/blogger-image--726784743.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Day 90</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Miles <a href="tel:127-1290" x-apple-data-detectors="true" x-apple-data-detectors-type="telephone" x-apple-data-detectors-result="7">1274-1290</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I wake up at 6:30 to the sun shining in my eyes. I slept passed the sunrise, but the view is still incredible. It's only a 14 mile day, so I pack up slowly and let my solar charger soak up some sun.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The hike today is a ridge walk and a long, steep descent into Belden.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3VDSfwv0AyBuVO66wFUa0lzqFw60foPSGH8gBqaITAOKlfznrA0BgoWQeh2mkdN6f9o8FMQtwSf49UyYKld8lGVW5o-oLHVwaYsX9hwkWj9z_AYXlfoEqWNno9ZGeFW8WoOOVlJ93GN_A/s640/blogger-image--530826992.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3VDSfwv0AyBuVO66wFUa0lzqFw60foPSGH8gBqaITAOKlfznrA0BgoWQeh2mkdN6f9o8FMQtwSf49UyYKld8lGVW5o-oLHVwaYsX9hwkWj9z_AYXlfoEqWNno9ZGeFW8WoOOVlJ93GN_A/s640/blogger-image--530826992.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The trail goes through Belden Town, which is actually some sort of resort that hosts raves most weekends. I've never been to a rave and the crowd is a shock to my system. There are tents set up in every field, packed in so tightly that one is literally touching a port-a-potty. A guy walks passed me in skin tight leopard print shorts and I pass a tent full of people hugging pillows and doing a synchronized dance.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqa5wqzCjEWK78x5tI8WGjFHY_Sc1vteCj5TblksPHze4DgC4mCx7dyh6tfterI-4k2lIHfC4cX41kQXUr9fCs5VMiIUc1PTgzcjjW3AmJv5j5AUtftRiP0wDyXIMpz5Uo4rX34mTsoM9A/s640/blogger-image-1839448475.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqa5wqzCjEWK78x5tI8WGjFHY_Sc1vteCj5TblksPHze4DgC4mCx7dyh6tfterI-4k2lIHfC4cX41kQXUr9fCs5VMiIUc1PTgzcjjW3AmJv5j5AUtftRiP0wDyXIMpz5Uo4rX34mTsoM9A/s640/blogger-image-1839448475.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I go into the restaurant at the resort with Fence and we see Cracker Keeper and Joker. I eat a burger, drink a beer, and decide that it's time for me to leave Belden Town. Although the river looks nice, this rave really isn't my scene right now.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL8dT6ONxStJhrTY0yVKsQIoiKGu8SeWnqUHz4_pD1TVzIAXVvvUHw8NG_CwqRlVmOHJYx7Ewj5yPuv1NXf2H7Mi2tS7hyphenhyphenyQKadzH78ZO-47q4daeANfsw5cA_3XHyYpzi-TmF5sSS4MqU/s640/blogger-image-32442353.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL8dT6ONxStJhrTY0yVKsQIoiKGu8SeWnqUHz4_pD1TVzIAXVvvUHw8NG_CwqRlVmOHJYx7Ewj5yPuv1NXf2H7Mi2tS7hyphenhyphenyQKadzH78ZO-47q4daeANfsw5cA_3XHyYpzi-TmF5sSS4MqU/s640/blogger-image-32442353.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The incredible trail angel Brenda Braaten lives a few minutes from Belden Town and picks up Joker, Cracker Keeper, and myself. She takes us to her home where her family has built an entire seperate apartment just for hikers. There's a shower, kitchen, and a massive hiker box with free food. Arabia is already here and we wake her from her nap when we're looking around. I find a scale in the bathroom and it says that I weigh 152lbs. Holy shit, that means I've lost close to 50 pounds. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">After some primo relaxation the four of us walk to the convenience store down the street. I put on some loaner clothes, they have laundry machines at the store and I need to do some laundry. I instantly fall in love with a sleeveless plaid button-up shirt. I'm definitely keeping this as my new town shirt!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTrDGLKu58wr-dVuIw-_c5icVSShSLuwC4WSJMGOfJozkBJgr8IrwSXDMTr1fjTioJGnH3Yrm-BeQK5vZwjKCpNfuNU9SpfWnNXcjfm8YUv6pn556M_JAUbHGlWvTVulRtPUyKKImWUl0f/s640/blogger-image-212539665.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTrDGLKu58wr-dVuIw-_c5icVSShSLuwC4WSJMGOfJozkBJgr8IrwSXDMTr1fjTioJGnH3Yrm-BeQK5vZwjKCpNfuNU9SpfWnNXcjfm8YUv6pn556M_JAUbHGlWvTVulRtPUyKKImWUl0f/s640/blogger-image-212539665.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The store has food and milkshakes, so we all sit and eat while our laundry is being cleaned. The owner of the store mentions that they have a parade every year and we should stay for it. Awesome! Today is the fourth of July and a parade sounds like just the thing I need. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The parade is adorable. A bunch of kids on bikes ride in circles around the dirt parking lot trailed by adults in a decorated car. The parade is so cute and small, what a perfect way to spend the holiday!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjaZkTRrPL4TUAQskxPeXiCUrSdhwt6Klz8VBjeJ4AkXFkKBXUL0fgUMmX6MscfWmB026wwsA6y-WROJY598C8WRskP9v0yOOCjcclFRG8xqZfhB9UnqFqfIAP-tWwhfPahL9y6VQRW9Nc/s640/blogger-image--1342534693.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjaZkTRrPL4TUAQskxPeXiCUrSdhwt6Klz8VBjeJ4AkXFkKBXUL0fgUMmX6MscfWmB026wwsA6y-WROJY598C8WRskP9v0yOOCjcclFRG8xqZfhB9UnqFqfIAP-tWwhfPahL9y6VQRW9Nc/s640/blogger-image--1342534693.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Back at the apartment I separate my resupply and get ready to hike out in the morning. I orgininally sent myself five days of food for this next section, but now I don't need so much. I'm</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Meeting Ethan in Chester in just a few days (SO EXCITING), so I put some of the extra food in a hiker box.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkzOipSRw2zfNPFyj_659Vy9pBmua0fRGuxwOotHnfJVlby8PzRVTtlfaJAh_Pb3rRWFsvCMoaTOS_GX4nmiN1bszmvVW1dmXJizHOrPeXFNgMJaXjFE7fb3GtUqXJhjCzR2V-q4P7T1BQ/s640/blogger-image--1831607793.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkzOipSRw2zfNPFyj_659Vy9pBmua0fRGuxwOotHnfJVlby8PzRVTtlfaJAh_Pb3rRWFsvCMoaTOS_GX4nmiN1bszmvVW1dmXJizHOrPeXFNgMJaXjFE7fb3GtUqXJhjCzR2V-q4P7T1BQ/s640/blogger-image--1831607793.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Before going to sleep I get into a conversation with Joker about how we entertain ourselves while we're hiking. I mention that I enjoy audiobooks and he points out that music and books are major distractions for him. Having hiked the PCT many times before he says that one of his favorite feelings, what brings him back to the trail, is the peace he feels when he reaches Washington after having spent so long not distracting himself while hiking.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">He's right, music and audiobooks are ways I distract myself from many of the neutral or uncomfortable feelings on trail. I know that I feel much better when I try to actively engage in discomfort rather than distract myself, but it's so much more difficult on trail than it is in my regular life. It's easier to avoid discomfort in a city than it is when you're walking almost a marathon each day. I wonder how my experience would differ if I dropped the distractions.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I decide to consider this more after some much needed rest.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Day 91</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Miles <a href="tel:129-1308" x-apple-data-detectors="true" x-apple-data-detectors-type="telephone" x-apple-data-detectors-result="8">1290-130</a>4</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The climb out of Belden is one of the biggest yet, 6,700 feet elevation gain over 13 miles of non-stop climbing.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0rIKmY1PhaV9b01-m8JMbhazXYf04BKl4R2mAI2BgT4dOhI24mLZVEwE35PJ30FCtXQtGwYUImAbvD8sWfCPhbEjiSDk3YnrdPnw6LmdGa_ZtkeH_sQyYGx-SG36yoxbP8OdpoKy6Bk0G/s640/blogger-image-174668667.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0rIKmY1PhaV9b01-m8JMbhazXYf04BKl4R2mAI2BgT4dOhI24mLZVEwE35PJ30FCtXQtGwYUImAbvD8sWfCPhbEjiSDk3YnrdPnw6LmdGa_ZtkeH_sQyYGx-SG36yoxbP8OdpoKy6Bk0G/s640/blogger-image-174668667.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I took three naps, but eventually I made it to the top, setting up my tent early and dipping into the book I picked up in Sierra City. A while later came Arabia and Wall-E and they set up their tents next to mine. We cook dinner together and Arabia and I talk about Ethan's visit. I'm so thrilled to see him and she tells me about when her boyfriend visited a few weeks ago. She says that she enjoyed it, but that it was really difficult to get back on trail after he left. I think about what it will be like when Ethan leaves as I crawl into my tent and fall into a deep, restful sleep.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Day 92</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Miles <a href="tel:1308-132" x-apple-data-detectors="true" x-apple-data-detectors-type="telephone" x-apple-data-detectors-result="9">130</a>4-<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><a href="tel:1308-132" x-apple-data-detectors="true" x-apple-data-detectors-type="telephone" x-apple-data-detectors-result="9">13</a>24</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I wake up as Wall-E is packing up his tent. I start stretching, then remember that I only have to hike 20 miles today so I go back to sleep. Camp is empty when I get out of my tent at 8. Damn I love sleeping in!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">The trail today is relatively flat and easy, but i can't bring myself to hike more than a few miles between long breaks. I doze off during a few breaks, never for ore than a minute, but wake up each time panicked. How long was I asleep? What day is it? Am I going to be late meeting Ethan?</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I haven't had many big mile or stressful days recently, but my body fights me all day. It says, "stop hiking, Glitter" and I reply "shut up body, keep moving!"</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlqgO080S-FoxOnKzo6rxaoS1lv314tci7pPThwe89_jP9dhervnNH500dz7cuEfKto7dwUxFEE5IKtyYlfLKiX4jJTcuqfn987hCdZJzdzhezIC8Knef-EE03TgC3mR-B_JwJI0Lw3TiK/s640/blogger-image--1528934225.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlqgO080S-FoxOnKzo6rxaoS1lv314tci7pPThwe89_jP9dhervnNH500dz7cuEfKto7dwUxFEE5IKtyYlfLKiX4jJTcuqfn987hCdZJzdzhezIC8Knef-EE03TgC3mR-B_JwJI0Lw3TiK/s640/blogger-image--1528934225.jpg"></a></div><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I see Arabia after 12 miles and I'm relieved to hear that she's also having a slow day. We relax for a while in the shade, then hike out together to finish the last eight miles. On days like this it's so nice to have company. We help one another keep a steady pace and our conversation distracts me from the pulsing pain in the bottoms of my feet.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNVZQoVjqKiPz02Y6gzrVsAzWfo_nwSmgggDgZHRV1VgBeyCjR0ai_TmHnMKmeyiKxYrQvBwEUITmUlF8xabUE25DsV0BBtN5qd-ULouXpS3EWIjyb2hXu6ve79z0_IeKBreTvgC9qJL1Q/s640/blogger-image--1477048713.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNVZQoVjqKiPz02Y6gzrVsAzWfo_nwSmgggDgZHRV1VgBeyCjR0ai_TmHnMKmeyiKxYrQvBwEUITmUlF8xabUE25DsV0BBtN5qd-ULouXpS3EWIjyb2hXu6ve79z0_IeKBreTvgC9qJL1Q/s640/blogger-image--1477048713.jpg"></a></div><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Maybe my body needs rest or maybe my body knows that I'm about to take a few days off and is starting to slow down early. Either way it's a tough day and I'm immensely relieved when we reach camp. The flies are thick in the air, so I set up my tent quickly and jump in.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI6BA5DG0fR_EbZyHRufcFKKguTdhMCSl4ZPipe3btBC2aaI9R06ZqfrtjhDq8TgZDeyC5id7rvJIL_xSJN8OPI-t8J1DoUZmhKH8Zg_CGorLq46NQoR3hSQMA0aw2XFcf28gqWdsTfYg9/s640/blogger-image-2013431068.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI6BA5DG0fR_EbZyHRufcFKKguTdhMCSl4ZPipe3btBC2aaI9R06ZqfrtjhDq8TgZDeyC5id7rvJIL_xSJN8OPI-t8J1DoUZmhKH8Zg_CGorLq46NQoR3hSQMA0aw2XFcf28gqWdsTfYg9/s640/blogger-image-2013431068.jpg"></a></div><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I can't believe I get to see Ethan tomorrow. I've been counting down the days until his visit for the last month. I want to get to sleep as quickly as possible so tomorrow will get here sooner. As I start to fall asleep I think of Ethan getting out of his Sunday matinee show, loading everything I asked him to bring into his car, and starting the 11 hour drive to Chester. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Day 93</div></div>Miles 1324-1335 </div><div><br></div><div>I wake up way too early and hike down the trail way too quickly. I get to see Ethan today! He's meeting me at a highway at 11, but I'm on schedule to get there much earlier. I'm just so excited!</div><div><br></div><div>On the way to the highway I pass the PCT midpoint. I feel so accomplished! Only 1,330 miles to go!</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDZorxbmgf-JbREtMLPHRVxvAP8l66vbvDwFnVyr1wVFJPW2vKmqXwKx5OhCmYEzTBY2JtF3Zay3F2qmAEKTR8WN8RD6YYYVaDUsBINv6pO0dQzcwi2GvpkH_lSMk70SewrVjRFXhxJ7zP/s640/blogger-image--955559239.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDZorxbmgf-JbREtMLPHRVxvAP8l66vbvDwFnVyr1wVFJPW2vKmqXwKx5OhCmYEzTBY2JtF3Zay3F2qmAEKTR8WN8RD6YYYVaDUsBINv6pO0dQzcwi2GvpkH_lSMk70SewrVjRFXhxJ7zP/s640/blogger-image--955559239.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>I get to the highway early and sit to relax and wait. Maybe I'll make a sign with a big heart on it and stand in the road for when Ethan drives by. I'm about to pull out my groundsheet to make a sign when I see Ethan drive by. He's early! He jumps out if the car and I pick him up and spin him around. I haven't seen him in months and I'm so ready for a break from the trail. Trail-cation here I come!</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7VzN3Z_6T1ekp-74oVDuyJE9lwHbyTOMULtyODFWh76ad7LSBqb8U3iGov0rlTR4qvNNCkDcY31MM_Fn4jgQisWNElNcxoS0_8YbSiqJmFk_yecGQHz7UgxlXgH4eDxDoXRKU9PF6QYTM/s640/blogger-image--1041244792.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7VzN3Z_6T1ekp-74oVDuyJE9lwHbyTOMULtyODFWh76ad7LSBqb8U3iGov0rlTR4qvNNCkDcY31MM_Fn4jgQisWNElNcxoS0_8YbSiqJmFk_yecGQHz7UgxlXgH4eDxDoXRKU9PF6QYTM/s640/blogger-image--1041244792.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860000285673806917.post-35538377091838562042014-06-27T07:07:00.001-07:002014-06-27T07:07:20.838-07:00PCT Days 73-82Day 73<div>Miles 1018-1028</div><div><br></div><div>I wake up at Kennedy Meadows North feeling ready to get back on trail, but I have a lot o<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">f packing still to complete. I have to get rid of my bear canister, organize four days of food, and eat breakfast before I can pack my backpack. The big group of us from last night gather again for breakfast in the restaurant below the dorms. I feel more than a little hung over from last night's Franzia binge and I have eggs and sausage and toast and pancakes and juice. I feel a bit better.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">After packing my things and eating a soft serve ice cream from the store, I leave the dorms with the Germans and start walking the mile to the main highway. On our way, a guy drives by and rolls down his window.</font></div><div><br></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">"I can take one of you" he says excitedly.</font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">"OK, I'll go with you," I reply.</font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">He jumps out of his BMW in the middle of the road, running around to make room for my pack. Right before he opens the door he stops and looks up at me.</font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">"The one down side is that, if I pick you up, I might not get to pick up the cute girl down the road."</font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">"OK," I say, "that's cool."</font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">He runs back around the car, gets back inside, and drives away. The Germans and I laugh; people are so weird. I think the cute girl he was referring to is Moxie. I can't wait to tell her this story.</font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">We get to the main highway and find Solitude trying to hitch. We join him and I sit in the gravel on the side of the road. The day is hot and I reach for my hat. Oh shit, I left my hat a mile back in the dorms. I consider leaving it, but I can't. It's one of Ethan's favorite hats and I begged him to let me take it on the PCT. I start walking back to the resort, wondering if the rest of the gang will get a hitch before I return. </font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">I get back to the resort, find my hat, and ask a family in a big truck if I can ride in their truck bed to the main highway. They agree and we bump down the one lane road towards the highway. When I get there the others are gone, probably already back on trail at Sonora Pass. </font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">I stick out my thumb, expecting to be here for a while, but the second car that passes me pulls over. The driver smiles, gives me a thumbs up, and waves me over. He's from Ireland and in San Francisco on business, but he's driving out to Bishop today to ride his bike and do some rock climbing. He tells me about biking through the Pyrenees in Europe while we drive up to the pass. </font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">Back on trail, I call Ethan to say hello and call my dad to wish him a happy Father's Day.Then I start up the trail, passing a sweet couple that ask about the PCT, and resting at the top of a dry, volcanic mountain. The landscape is changing so quickly. It's more dry, more rocky, and less forested than I've seen in the past few weeks.</font></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRgzsI8Bi3-mpIFu_SwZ0jQkL6MX1WUGQaebahTP7-4A-hZGVcYVw_tXn2oxHtWmI1gzDLBygP9yv3qHlpUVumDaxsEX8L_liRKFFiEQFDy56ZGE6sJgcyBK8-CQhLxN-jA76R7C1qifiX/s640/blogger-image--267067878.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRgzsI8Bi3-mpIFu_SwZ0jQkL6MX1WUGQaebahTP7-4A-hZGVcYVw_tXn2oxHtWmI1gzDLBygP9yv3qHlpUVumDaxsEX8L_liRKFFiEQFDy56ZGE6sJgcyBK8-CQhLxN-jA76R7C1qifiX/s640/blogger-image--267067878.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">After cresting the mountain, the trail drops several thousand feet into a wooded valley. The trail is covered in patches of snow and I loose the path over and over again. I get frustrated and side step directly down the mountain. When I get to the bottom I start to feel nauseous. <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Maybe I shouldn't have had so much wine last night. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I pass the Germans at seven miles in, camping early to rest Princess's hurting tendons, and find Solitude right off the trail at mile 10. I decide to stop here, it's nice to have an easy day right after town and I still feel sick to my stomach. I set up my tent in a big campsite a few hundred yards from Solitude and I spend t</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">he rest of the evening relaxing and starting in on those five bags of chips.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjawp5JuMbGVHDPA8c7luFK_HEv35Y0g6aKL6yOxFKpE5fu-uA3ShGYZgV-Jr6EzrbwuGn6xuqIn63xleCVMRG6AKiU-nPLxc126mLd731FbMQ265HX-2MI_7nOfigDOdVylfHnC4avkIV0/s640/blogger-image--1841580237.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjawp5JuMbGVHDPA8c7luFK_HEv35Y0g6aKL6yOxFKpE5fu-uA3ShGYZgV-Jr6EzrbwuGn6xuqIn63xleCVMRG6AKiU-nPLxc126mLd731FbMQ265HX-2MI_7nOfigDOdVylfHnC4avkIV0/s640/blogger-image--1841580237.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Day 74</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Miles 1028-1055</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I'm packed and ready to hike by 6am and I can see that Solitude has already left. The trail starts climbing up the side of the canyon and scattered everywhere are the most beautiful flowers (or maybe it's a fungus). I think I heard someone call them snow flowers, but I'm not sure.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTnQTpCongNVGpOvUcmtlD0dXJHkP2eNhEmmwJ_lazQxm6Hp1AAzsD0_DmE7vX1ksAVG2lb4vendkhtM8sit0vt5Z0sMHtzojEuoLNhHfV0bbupni-RDSM-kN0ANGsUuWUkFI8YYB3hFD_/s640/blogger-image-669869085.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTnQTpCongNVGpOvUcmtlD0dXJHkP2eNhEmmwJ_lazQxm6Hp1AAzsD0_DmE7vX1ksAVG2lb4vendkhtM8sit0vt5Z0sMHtzojEuoLNhHfV0bbupni-RDSM-kN0ANGsUuWUkFI8YYB3hFD_/s640/blogger-image-669869085.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Two hikers race past me, introducing themselves quickly. Go-Go Gadget and Salty Snack are their names and man do they hike quickly. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">After reaching the top of the canyon, the trail flattens out and traverses long, low hills with the occasional lake and waterfall. It's so beautiful! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqloHZpMDBG7CmA2DU9NU0KPYvPsYKp7y_GBM2ldOPQK_zD-4tM3z0S7CGcEIVUUz9P-h2VH-Pt0A7C7MtLn6TDP1sNlRuBId67cGZ3Ak52tlie5LI6YGRkaHIRf0AYkZjDMWRBCZpntgY/s640/blogger-image-435642691.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqloHZpMDBG7CmA2DU9NU0KPYvPsYKp7y_GBM2ldOPQK_zD-4tM3z0S7CGcEIVUUz9P-h2VH-Pt0A7C7MtLn6TDP1sNlRuBId67cGZ3Ak52tlie5LI6YGRkaHIRf0AYkZjDMWRBCZpntgY/s640/blogger-image-435642691.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVYLqllZAve9a8WByt2zlbVRTkazemsibBobhUrDmTXto0ReQhniM61YVmnR9BaNBa-TpZQ2v6Kh1od3bgGNkQIWX-QQomSj2OjXp_F9Iz7WVXeTwuxFzElSiNU0kmR5Scai-MlD1Xjowj/s640/blogger-image-1694950884.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVYLqllZAve9a8WByt2zlbVRTkazemsibBobhUrDmTXto0ReQhniM61YVmnR9BaNBa-TpZQ2v6Kh1od3bgGNkQIWX-QQomSj2OjXp_F9Iz7WVXeTwuxFzElSiNU0kmR5Scai-MlD1Xjowj/s640/blogger-image-1694950884.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhICqHILOcFJ59Mmz6BGFUBfjH4CBjZU5W2JFUOKdMa-xqO-Xc69QWitB4MHpidajrFz-ZTWMYZIp_x_wvwvi0QHLyyokqc4pyEXDsOX7Bi6GQVcf5m1GmbIjOUQqcV98NG0uHX8NtsYShy/s640/blogger-image-1632877667.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhICqHILOcFJ59Mmz6BGFUBfjH4CBjZU5W2JFUOKdMa-xqO-Xc69QWitB4MHpidajrFz-ZTWMYZIp_x_wvwvi0QHLyyokqc4pyEXDsOX7Bi6GQVcf5m1GmbIjOUQqcV98NG0uHX8NtsYShy/s640/blogger-image-1632877667.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnodtpFi1bgTCp6D63PR4SysmOiglUKltU8f3ELQplQ8Hzu72P_knAdm9vfVkmKZUsv7HzXAbHnN-c4ZzNemixYK3rLNLptzpx0MeNVUuBAWOA7ulthlFS9Yw1c0E-6cgDsH0DRh5IpSW0/s640/blogger-image--1729517623.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnodtpFi1bgTCp6D63PR4SysmOiglUKltU8f3ELQplQ8Hzu72P_knAdm9vfVkmKZUsv7HzXAbHnN-c4ZzNemixYK3rLNLptzpx0MeNVUuBAWOA7ulthlFS9Yw1c0E-6cgDsH0DRh5IpSW0/s640/blogger-image--1729517623.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">A<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">nother day with 15 miles before lunch, I'm loving this gentle terrain. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">As I continue the hike through a wet valley, someone pops out of a bush and unintentionally scares the bejesus out of </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">me. He eventually catches up, introduces himself as Mowgli, and launches into a story about wanting to buy a motorcycle. He's only hiking a few more days before leaving the PCT for good and he's considering riding a motorcycle from Tahoe back home to Colorado. He doesn't know how to ride a motorcycle nor does he have a motorcycle license, but he does have good health insurance so I encourage him to take a chance.</span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Mowgli and I hike together on and off for the next few hours over rolling hills and scattered forests. I can't believe this section is so scenic and beautiful. I enjoyed the high sierras, everyone's favorite, but this section feels like paradise.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi46AJbws0jJUiBlRuWGEsSgaO-FXaro2S_-GxgFzaSNIcJGLpMU3GVTAxaQbqrB6p6xeSROKNeyyBMt5JpmH0QHNV164uvgIEQNdmWTNMz7MNgRieKpZ-zJ2y9vlN1ZDGHJ6fvUw6v53Kz/s640/blogger-image--880361767.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi46AJbws0jJUiBlRuWGEsSgaO-FXaro2S_-GxgFzaSNIcJGLpMU3GVTAxaQbqrB6p6xeSROKNeyyBMt5JpmH0QHNV164uvgIEQNdmWTNMz7MNgRieKpZ-zJ2y9vlN1ZDGHJ6fvUw6v53Kz/s640/blogger-image--880361767.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi18emXJOgwJ4KHR6BmeIZe11XeoijK0B9gvEwmUEBQAbIvDVU0jr14gcvy9M12lg4GQe-YW5Os-fFRvwPZOwig43FhKBMWRQER8j8HimXbe6muxxpdYTkUGXQ3oXY7VTN0J6SdOArHcTZB/s640/blogger-image--1555020849.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi18emXJOgwJ4KHR6BmeIZe11XeoijK0B9gvEwmUEBQAbIvDVU0jr14gcvy9M12lg4GQe-YW5Os-fFRvwPZOwig43FhKBMWRQER8j8HimXbe6muxxpdYTkUGXQ3oXY7VTN0J6SdOArHcTZB/s640/blogger-image--1555020849.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">So many great views!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8LtbxnKViN_xrFjQZ3xCXRSOqS5Fj23YQsExTXzjvEZdfle2ep8OOhuTijpK1aYrNul0YT_0o17jT6FdHp6jcMm4bjtatIXb6Q85EpjNie3nYdhgqRFTek9cbVZqGd3sqq0D0qbgg1gZ5/s640/blogger-image--220530840.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8LtbxnKViN_xrFjQZ3xCXRSOqS5Fj23YQsExTXzjvEZdfle2ep8OOhuTijpK1aYrNul0YT_0o17jT6FdHp6jcMm4bjtatIXb6Q85EpjNie3nYdhgqRFTek9cbVZqGd3sqq0D0qbgg1gZ5/s640/blogger-image--220530840.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ4tGOuiXVrcxy69vq-5Oa4kY4WX7ZxXx2PhtvnhiZVJGx3Sqx4AdGYeAp9GAIa6IZ9tMleR66mXhc4S5Aojo6rzu5uc0TFIkdX76qh-HtILz-Zro8J_aQwApLyWChzJgj9b855Nv4LnG_/s640/blogger-image--446067811.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ4tGOuiXVrcxy69vq-5Oa4kY4WX7ZxXx2PhtvnhiZVJGx3Sqx4AdGYeAp9GAIa6IZ9tMleR66mXhc4S5Aojo6rzu5uc0TFIkdX76qh-HtILz-Zro8J_aQwApLyWChzJgj9b855Nv4LnG_/s640/blogger-image--446067811.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4eLfRvZnsch640ig6wN9mQlAHpljDya4aDmNK8v82bE8Kn93bD9SNl1e2rNv98eItYF96t4BGhKKZQ_pjGd7uTg_G5Yko9C3Ffyd-CsYXMgaYdW1WZPeW1AUOZVYhgKNxceACq4ztFC8W/s640/blogger-image-2042736360.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4eLfRvZnsch640ig6wN9mQlAHpljDya4aDmNK8v82bE8Kn93bD9SNl1e2rNv98eItYF96t4BGhKKZQ_pjGd7uTg_G5Yko9C3Ffyd-CsYXMgaYdW1WZPeW1AUOZVYhgKNxceACq4ztFC8W/s640/blogger-image-2042736360.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I eventually pass Moxie and the Bubbies as we climb to Ebbetts Pass. Once at the pass, there's a backup of hikers including Washpot and Butters sitting at the road. It's only five more miles until the next campsite, so I sit for a moment before I hurry off the pass and down the mountain towards camp.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNWP4wMpXfR-7aOwUcbL7-OELawvHytBQDWw-2Ro2UAG4udOOl1ZirDAhPyyvtSI9Af-BsfQJcUyrsDChswYpHLbZUaUxXDUsA0mIO24OqydA6onglZq2e4qxZEUh15_vssd2P8msZ0K0p/s640/blogger-image-1831002703.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNWP4wMpXfR-7aOwUcbL7-OELawvHytBQDWw-2Ro2UAG4udOOl1ZirDAhPyyvtSI9Af-BsfQJcUyrsDChswYpHLbZUaUxXDUsA0mIO24OqydA6onglZq2e4qxZEUh15_vssd2P8msZ0K0p/s640/blogger-image-1831002703.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMLCbVXhmW1MB-86d5ivAYZznlR3J46yxZ-_xlNXKszs_2zHuDcyznxvF0j1Vpd0_r4px6csolAw9QoSKZdjho2mIUTNKtcSGmPsnev14iayOjoKtYq5fIZF250PlwjOg2yF83JQAngDZA/s640/blogger-image--1212322164.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMLCbVXhmW1MB-86d5ivAYZznlR3J46yxZ-_xlNXKszs_2zHuDcyznxvF0j1Vpd0_r4px6csolAw9QoSKZdjho2mIUTNKtcSGmPsnev14iayOjoKtYq5fIZF250PlwjOg2yF83JQAngDZA/s640/blogger-image--1212322164.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6aBAz6Ey8Rgzup-Z0Xpwq3W83kYXiJsNLUKZEv7vac0E4-dYhl4vOUn5mAE0UkN9m9OoIMD2mNnlKlpQQqJu5XOINDlJbrJipBy7G9ao522m-CyenQtTyvAXS1XI0eypyFWZdfaEGOGK3/s640/blogger-image--227814640.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6aBAz6Ey8Rgzup-Z0Xpwq3W83kYXiJsNLUKZEv7vac0E4-dYhl4vOUn5mAE0UkN9m9OoIMD2mNnlKlpQQqJu5XOINDlJbrJipBy7G9ao522m-CyenQtTyvAXS1XI0eypyFWZdfaEGOGK3/s640/blogger-image--227814640.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiznkxSKa4FFoA9b106opYzfVE1LA7PCF6s7SBgy2I_nZA3zlFKSQQyyfAmRHH-SIWANLDKFAUCRkfq4o2HRikXPap0SyDZmLzQWhJmvXw5icGWyBZen2Ta71Y1Ilz1FaZl81Aj8fdlkgEt/s640/blogger-image-1593080103.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiznkxSKa4FFoA9b106opYzfVE1LA7PCF6s7SBgy2I_nZA3zlFKSQQyyfAmRHH-SIWANLDKFAUCRkfq4o2HRikXPap0SyDZmLzQWhJmvXw5icGWyBZen2Ta71Y1Ilz1FaZl81Aj8fdlkgEt/s640/blogger-image-1593080103.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I get to camp after Solitude, Go-Go and Salty Snack and I pick out my campsite. It looks like this campsite is the last one for a while and more hikers start slowly walking in: Butters, Washpot, Mowgli, Midway, Half and Half, and Quinoa. They all set up their tents and a few of us gather around Go-Go's site, laughing, cooking our dinners, and drinking some of the wine I brought for this section. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Another big day tomorrow, so I'm thankful that the wine makes me tired. I crawl into my tent while the sun still shines and fall immediately into a deep, restful sleep.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Day 75</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Miles 1055-1083</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">It's the summer solstice, happy Hike Naked Day!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I walk out of camp alone this morning, after Solitude, but before all the others. Up a big mountain, down into a valley, my feet glide alone the trail. With a beautiful trail and no major discomfort, this is what I call float walking. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrjw_hGa_0WzxKPDxLTUAGmEKo9vIW_Q8dLsinpR_RPQno0-teO2PzHZm9gmdz5tCeo5CvwpClFX7EPeVVoZwyy-uJFtWRP4IzDDEI8kjizZp0oW_QltNH87Qfo4WON_miFEflaVrv-MYX/s640/blogger-image--893133362.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrjw_hGa_0WzxKPDxLTUAGmEKo9vIW_Q8dLsinpR_RPQno0-teO2PzHZm9gmdz5tCeo5CvwpClFX7EPeVVoZwyy-uJFtWRP4IzDDEI8kjizZp0oW_QltNH87Qfo4WON_miFEflaVrv-MYX/s640/blogger-image--893133362.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8yuqBLKR4ox4TInMUFpc1ZZDCNWB03Aox5fMfE4uKBlEjIkuWcpBLR-f41ZM5N7DAUDbxIPq6DO4AyutLFIjMv1Ww64vTqc_mNpXcOEtDn5vNb8gd4KvGIfSc6IBO6drkWEVSySui67zK/s640/blogger-image--423762476.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8yuqBLKR4ox4TInMUFpc1ZZDCNWB03Aox5fMfE4uKBlEjIkuWcpBLR-f41ZM5N7DAUDbxIPq6DO4AyutLFIjMv1Ww64vTqc_mNpXcOEtDn5vNb8gd4KvGIfSc6IBO6drkWEVSySui67zK/s640/blogger-image--423762476.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1osIDTbAf1bu0rOWY91__CdK-8K47WVXfZjCy6NDakoFCUZ6JAcDQtZ7KZ6L_GS9GDNOwMCUJ6PeZIEkWbYmFMcnXTSGTFVK53aEYhMx3obgTgxeEF4a8mVgMphXjSKg3sc8GolVKF5Fe/s640/blogger-image--795439988.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1osIDTbAf1bu0rOWY91__CdK-8K47WVXfZjCy6NDakoFCUZ6JAcDQtZ7KZ6L_GS9GDNOwMCUJ6PeZIEkWbYmFMcnXTSGTFVK53aEYhMx3obgTgxeEF4a8mVgMphXjSKg3sc8GolVKF5Fe/s640/blogger-image--795439988.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim3sIhsgP-KgUQqwF48HHisJyVBS5KCK9wW1vMUcHN2LPUYYfWGt-AA1qbgf9n2Gsuf_1QY0OhTCN9UcXJR632WUGOqf_OkFIVdITwKkTIjXyY8CSbzhpkAILvs7fLhvbf4gjP1HuEP5yJ/s640/blogger-image-1480695171.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim3sIhsgP-KgUQqwF48HHisJyVBS5KCK9wW1vMUcHN2LPUYYfWGt-AA1qbgf9n2Gsuf_1QY0OhTCN9UcXJR632WUGOqf_OkFIVdITwKkTIjXyY8CSbzhpkAILvs7fLhvbf4gjP1HuEP5yJ/s640/blogger-image-1480695171.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">It's a weekend and there are day hikers around every corner. This section of trail seems really accessible and I cross gravel and paved roads on my way to the next pass, Carson Pass. As I get close to the pass, also the location of a major mountain road, I meet all sorts of people coming up the trail. Parents with children take up the whole path and couples both in and out of shape hike up the mountain.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">When I arrive at Carson Pass I see a visitors center bustling with tourists and volunteers. The volunteers have name badges with the title "Volunteer Docent" and one asks of I'm a thru-hiker. I confirm that I am and she motions to a table behind her, "we have fruit and cupcakes and I'll fill up your water bottle." She shows me to a chair and tells me that they have a scale as well, if I'd<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> like to weigh myself.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">It all seems so strange and it takes me a few minutes to shake off my hiker brain and realize what's going on. After hiking alone for an afternoon, trail magic can be such a surprise. I finally weigh myself (160, but that can't be right, I started at 200lbs), grab an orange, and take a seat. I sign the register and put a piece of the juicy orange into my mouth. Yum! Fruit!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">In comes Go-Go, Salty, Mowgli, and Butters, but they're all eager to continue hiking. They want to get as close to Tahoe as possible tonight so they'll have a short day tomorrow. Mowgli asks if I want to split a room with him, Go-Go and Salty in Tahoe. I do and we all pack up and cross the road together, waving goodbye to the friendly docents who loaded us up with fruit and calories.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIEyqlTET-p5aXzDfVyZPygCp2KIoq1Y4PmA9qdH1_0oOVsaa-NW9z579FI8uHL5u3Ohe6rLUEBI8aqEO0LBbQC3Nctc8UL2hHSdA6m8kk6f1HlLT5oMQgCxjcK84tuhhSiEyY2sOSxYVs/s640/blogger-image--697345107.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIEyqlTET-p5aXzDfVyZPygCp2KIoq1Y4PmA9qdH1_0oOVsaa-NW9z579FI8uHL5u3Ohe6rLUEBI8aqEO0LBbQC3Nctc8UL2hHSdA6m8kk6f1HlLT5oMQgCxjcK84tuhhSiEyY2sOSxYVs/s640/blogger-image--697345107.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I hike out of Carson Pass with Salty Snack. After talking about the basics, Iike where we're from, we realize that we both went to The Ohio State University at the same time. In fact, she lived a couple of blocks from the Pier One where I worked. Small world! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We hike for a few more hours and chose a campsite in a large meadow FILLED with mosquitos. They are everywhere! I swat four off of Go-Go while brushing a few more off of my neck. They're biting my face! My hands! Baaaaaaaaah! Mosquitos are making me crazy! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I set up my tent as quickly as possible to avoid the mosquitos. Once out if danger, I start to feel excited once again. I'm so excited to get to Tahoe tomorrow, another zero day!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Day 76</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Miles 1<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">083-1092</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Too drunk on food to write much, let me just say that Tahoe is wonderful. Our hotel has an all you can eat buffet and they don't kick us out after a few hours.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiPTPzfwz939BPVRrE32UuzlZgkQcyXiBg4A90ycNZueAu5SksqrRaE0lfkI9JpxQ3ZMJjDskN9zPqt63HA23HootyvXtOZvJ-17UxMoJT587EC23CvijiPvtEfpkM_7F7cg4dVsxHnkAE/s640/blogger-image--1386509134.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiPTPzfwz939BPVRrE32UuzlZgkQcyXiBg4A90ycNZueAu5SksqrRaE0lfkI9JpxQ3ZMJjDskN9zPqt63HA23HootyvXtOZvJ-17UxMoJT587EC23CvijiPvtEfpkM_7F7cg4dVsxHnkAE/s640/blogger-image--1386509134.jpg"></a></div></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">I see the Germans, the Bubbies, and Moxie at dinner and we form one big table with Mowgli, Salty, and Go-Go. There's a mix up with the beer and we end up with an extra free pitcher of a delicious local brew.</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_tjagA2-2ausAyGr18MzQgkEe4VqRFeEw7Aps7KS43Fh3d9aSNfLGIrIv76X21yK2tL3zCz-JAcLhSE72vQoHgR-mbNXjKmGd540Y94zhDn4wbOa-Z3x3-5n10c9Uw6ypF4QQePag5yLs/s640/blogger-image-79095100.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_tjagA2-2ausAyGr18MzQgkEe4VqRFeEw7Aps7KS43Fh3d9aSNfLGIrIv76X21yK2tL3zCz-JAcLhSE72vQoHgR-mbNXjKmGd540Y94zhDn4wbOa-Z3x3-5n10c9Uw6ypF4QQePag5yLs/s640/blogger-image-79095100.jpg"></a></div><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Mowgli and I decide to test our luck at the penny slots and he wins $250 after a few minutes. I play a Dolly Parton machine and end the night up 45 cents, not too bad!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzEAqj7WA7FMr3VMJ3M_50h8WFylMSqaVmpClGKw0EB0Om1txfHrpzcBGdASKGT6uWHyTRzfpVEFveAOZ7ThthrTVzWdB5nQStzOrNBAiA5rI2Kwiy3g2gK7Lw6RB9n0XFDaj80l6P4V3p/s640/blogger-image--1606334513.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzEAqj7WA7FMr3VMJ3M_50h8WFylMSqaVmpClGKw0EB0Om1txfHrpzcBGdASKGT6uWHyTRzfpVEFveAOZ7ThthrTVzWdB5nQStzOrNBAiA5rI2Kwiy3g2gK7Lw6RB9n0XFDaj80l6P4V3p/s640/blogger-image--1606334513.jpg"></a></div></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">So. Much. Food. Can't. Think.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Day 77</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">Zero Day</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">We all wake up at 7, thru hiker curse, and Mowgli hands me a $100 bill. He asks if I'll pick up Starbucks from downstairs and I happily comply. Free coffee!</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">While drinking my coffee, Go-Go mentions that he has some glittery nail polish and I let him paint one of my toenails.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_AOc83Ap1ge85qXk_Cs2aAsc9IFMmJcUV9fuAICWL1c2eR9HaGxt11aUXWY-oWiF4Eb9Br82Zw4TDXlpwT746BxjuLT1QKy3WkfNJwFNj48bOiO05F8DDwvC1rN0BjDaB8Fuhjb50VXSU/s640/blogger-image--669492706.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_AOc83Ap1ge85qXk_Cs2aAsc9IFMmJcUV9fuAICWL1c2eR9HaGxt11aUXWY-oWiF4Eb9Br82Zw4TDXlpwT746BxjuLT1QKy3WkfNJwFNj48bOiO05F8DDwvC1rN0BjDaB8Fuhjb50VXSU/s640/blogger-image--669492706.jpg"></a></div><br></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">Errand time- haircut, groceries, food, shower, food.</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtN08KxI7hGwTkUqO7X_LW6ThPBH7G9jc2-fPDDjbgQrmemynAiPAJHh83xk_YBmcntWyGxrlmXwq11k90sTH1ucEBBDnba0nQuBgOAsoa6FqRVn8Q0xX1H0uHg2ANWAQ5y8x19OAejB92/s640/blogger-image-1861883294.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtN08KxI7hGwTkUqO7X_LW6ThPBH7G9jc2-fPDDjbgQrmemynAiPAJHh83xk_YBmcntWyGxrlmXwq11k90sTH1ucEBBDnba0nQuBgOAsoa6FqRVn8Q0xX1H0uHg2ANWAQ5y8x19OAejB92/s640/blogger-image-1861883294.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">At some point Go-Go convinces the front desk to give us a room upgrade, something about a non-functioning bathroom fan, and they move us to a suite on the 15th floor. Salty decides to hike out today, but a new hiker named Whistle comes to take her place. Bye Salty! It was great meeting you and I hope to see you again, I can tell that we're kindred spirits!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Go-Go, Whistle and I decide to go to the buffet, but when we try to leave the new room the door won't budge. What in the world? We all try the door to no avail, it's stuck. I call the front desk and they call an engineer. It takes 40 minutes, but they eventually get the door to open. Go-Go quickly works his magical powers of persuasion and scores us free passes to the buffet, including lobster.</div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW4JxSgHkGU8_uHHYc3UqwRTbNH82a91aOQZO-cSNEXxolRaUDPaeQVhyaEd6QTJE6uivHtxT6GLijpLo0Xtkekyzyc-OtNYewCSXntFtuVYxy3YgkH6nC3Hvd_mS6QmiQJYHEFtbBmUQr/s640/blogger-image-106161025.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW4JxSgHkGU8_uHHYc3UqwRTbNH82a91aOQZO-cSNEXxolRaUDPaeQVhyaEd6QTJE6uivHtxT6GLijpLo0Xtkekyzyc-OtNYewCSXntFtuVYxy3YgkH6nC3Hvd_mS6QmiQJYHEFtbBmUQr/s640/blogger-image-106161025.jpg"></a></div></div></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">Drunk on gluttony once again, I stbke back to the room. Mowgli has a few friends staying in the room tonight and they're a little rowdy, but I don't mind. I'm so full and happy and satisfied that nothing could keep me from falling asleep tonight.</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">Day 78</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">Miles 1092-1104</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">I woke up today feeling ready to leave Tahoe and get back on the trail; what a change from other town stops!</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">Once we're all awake we walk to breakfast.</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7h9wb5a6u413b7hjZKcVRSy7O2v4zXp8VRXJRqGf7SS-5CN2HMApq0O4fsAdPQS_CSo7BWV02O2ngwU1Ulgo8fmHNUjlUSm9OQtPB9XrCNRUOSDHZs-odSgwtUUp44fuPw_w_wCovwH7A/s640/blogger-image-399416754.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7h9wb5a6u413b7hjZKcVRSy7O2v4zXp8VRXJRqGf7SS-5CN2HMApq0O4fsAdPQS_CSo7BWV02O2ngwU1Ulgo8fmHNUjlUSm9OQtPB9XrCNRUOSDHZs-odSgwtUUp44fuPw_w_wCovwH7A/s640/blogger-image-399416754.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I'm tempted to just eat quickly at a Burger King on the way, but I can't resist the pull of this great cafe we found yesterday. Their food is homemade and oh-so-delicious. I order the huevos del Driftwood: medium eggs over tortilla chips with black bean chili, cheese, guacamole, and salsa. I also split a waffle with Go-Go.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">After breakfast, Go-Go, Whistle, and I walk back to the room to digest while Mowgli stays at the restaurant to hang out with his friends. At the room I take a 20-minute nap, then soak in the suite's giant bathtub.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Once Mowgli returns we all pile in his buddy's car, run a few errands, and drive back to the trailhead on Highway 50. I feel a little sluggish from the big breakfast, but I'm also excited to be back on the trail. I hike behind Go-Go for a while, knowing that soon he'll race ahead.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2uyPV5oqAmls_7E_NuIMArXttWngj119HAinY-bzBDlR5eVr6d_3TpFkLN0OebzN4G_tFhzO1XmaCi-bh655dbnASrhqzREJsHOzN2_70f4CKk-09q8S1h9HmQRpv-gsn0iNHB0WPLMFs/s640/blogger-image-453067276.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2uyPV5oqAmls_7E_NuIMArXttWngj119HAinY-bzBDlR5eVr6d_3TpFkLN0OebzN4G_tFhzO1XmaCi-bh655dbnASrhqzREJsHOzN2_70f4CKk-09q8S1h9HmQRpv-gsn0iNHB0WPLMFs/s640/blogger-image-453067276.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">After a few miles we arrived at Echo Lake Resort. The PCT goes right through the resort and Go-Go and I couldn't resist the temptation to stop. The front of the store is crowded with people eating shakes and root beer floats. I order a berry milkshake and join some other PCTers at the picnic tables in the sun. I see a few people I know, the big crew with Washpot and Butters, and meet a few new hikers including Handy Andy. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU9YnIlZNUS3b8AjsI6DZ_hIiM6mQpl3dCPYIgyQsQaegdzQ4eAyTTDNYJj04B6mfalp_XsMEN_lllTNReZnCmgB5Mudq0cN_g13jMuflC1ZiIFSACz0-M1Y_U2J16NvfSRlKLXMEWJkAW/s640/blogger-image-103993511.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU9YnIlZNUS3b8AjsI6DZ_hIiM6mQpl3dCPYIgyQsQaegdzQ4eAyTTDNYJj04B6mfalp_XsMEN_lllTNReZnCmgB5Mudq0cN_g13jMuflC1ZiIFSACz0-M1Y_U2J16NvfSRlKLXMEWJkAW/s640/blogger-image-103993511.jpg"></a></div><br></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">The trail out of Echo Lake is a consistently gentle grade. It goes up for the first seven miles, then down for 3 more before reaching the outlet of Susie Lake. I start slowing down to look for a campsite and Go-Go decides to keep hiking. </font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">Goodbye Go-Go! Thank you for your generosity and genuine warmth!</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb5gLC8CWam_qLb3L2UHGuBRAIpLF906FbChmcucR7p4TJgx9eHrGayGGNpzuOCceCrW6m3wbPIGEyuZjip6QftOQDu7dOsIVqtozwSyg_G6OK8WnaAfce2bfzlStuSrzVfDIUPoINnwY5/s640/blogger-image--1995603060.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb5gLC8CWam_qLb3L2UHGuBRAIpLF906FbChmcucR7p4TJgx9eHrGayGGNpzuOCceCrW6m3wbPIGEyuZjip6QftOQDu7dOsIVqtozwSyg_G6OK8WnaAfce2bfzlStuSrzVfDIUPoINnwY5/s640/blogger-image--1995603060.jpg"></a></div><br></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">I find a campsite hidden from the trail on top of a small hill. There's only one site, so I set up my tent and start my evening routine. I can see that others are walking by and stopping at a campsite right below my hill. Here's the awesome view from my campsite tonight.</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3fCvf521TrZJxsCaftZvYJi23oH1d7j7gPijnbNU1OHiMEJsSYMHB3ImfN8ok350r4xMARdkLLI9ckBFGfFpFH-YCU66knK1VwWoj2LKwz3mnxr_yz30HjY2RUEXjQIWXjF3Xnl6xaIQF/s640/blogger-image--1705280136.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3fCvf521TrZJxsCaftZvYJi23oH1d7j7gPijnbNU1OHiMEJsSYMHB3ImfN8ok350r4xMARdkLLI9ckBFGfFpFH-YCU66knK1VwWoj2LKwz3mnxr_yz30HjY2RUEXjQIWXjF3Xnl6xaIQF/s640/blogger-image--1705280136.jpg"></a></div><br></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">The mosquitos are vicious here as well, so I apply more deet and crawl inside of my tent. I boil water for dinner inside my tent (don't worry, I'm not using my rain fly so there is ventilation) and taste the mushroom noodles I bought in Tahoe. They're flavorless, so I decide to add some flavor and calories by mixing in a handful of broken chips. Muuuuuuuch better!</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4-dYkrN5QuaIMH9WqvR4gVIIvkNV_YTUDNBcy1YcWjon3uKcIytPOxyFiT7ZhKBVh75Ufnt39Kv8O8iDtsyUZqVG28PDSCRz25wiGYu4wHrfnp5103Rg_HVpDjmbJDQTddzwhi7s8tk8M/s640/blogger-image--2020505561.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4-dYkrN5QuaIMH9WqvR4gVIIvkNV_YTUDNBcy1YcWjon3uKcIytPOxyFiT7ZhKBVh75Ufnt39Kv8O8iDtsyUZqVG28PDSCRz25wiGYu4wHrfnp5103Rg_HVpDjmbJDQTddzwhi7s8tk8M/s640/blogger-image--2020505561.jpg"></a></div><br></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">I love these short days when I get to stop early and take my time eating and getting ready for bed. I'm also excited for a big day tomorrow. Goodnight mosquito friends!</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">Day 79</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">Miles 1104-1124</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">The sun rises in the base of the valley at 6am and light filters into my tent. I usually wake up naturally around 5:30, but today I wake up only when the light hits my face. I turn over and cover my face with my arm. I finally let the air out of my sleeping pad at 7:15, forcing myself to sit up, put in my contacts, and start packing.</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">Everyone that camped in the large site below me last night is already gone. I start on the trail going up a long ascent, in and out of the patches of evergreens. I see a turkey run across the trail and I reach for my MP3 player. Wait, was that really a turkey? I look to my left and see the bird again, running alongside me staying 3 feet away to my left. It has beautiful yellow feathers puffed up on it's neck and it struts around trees and bushes to match my speed. Is it a male grouse? Some other type of wild fowl?</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz6KRbNKfOGryEwCOO5qaUuZGOf94jVh0W3fFU5aBm7mw-kX9vSdqkd0rVMYmr1Z9DrWT1IpxXckJNMthKOAQzmW7NP9Bc2dI-wme8yXAQw8FkINHsYw_n6j2roghqrMWcCjuX4zJs8q0-/s640/blogger-image-981851553.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz6KRbNKfOGryEwCOO5qaUuZGOf94jVh0W3fFU5aBm7mw-kX9vSdqkd0rVMYmr1Z9DrWT1IpxXckJNMthKOAQzmW7NP9Bc2dI-wme8yXAQw8FkINHsYw_n6j2roghqrMWcCjuX4zJs8q0-/s640/blogger-image-981851553.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I continue climbing for three more miles until I crest Dicks Pass, a mountain range spread out before me on the other side. It looks like I can see 50 miles out, lakes, rivers, peaks, valleys. I sit for a few minutes at the pass and eat two single serving packets of blueberry granola. As I'm packing the trash into my bag and getting ready to start hiking again I see Soapbox hiking with someone I've never met. I introduce myself to Soapbox's friend, his girlfriend out hiking with him for a few days, and I move on just as they are sitting down. I'm feeling pretty OK today and I need to keep moving if I'm going to make 25 miles.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizL2GF0tBPTcCWDDd6baQjNbTvqaKtmYe1JO3_187aws01MBL8M0niq4khcF_faw3OJ-lH9ivLdEbfjSDyR5bcEO7VgzU0B6mYCHUvR3WoJwfpC-eFTryL85OEMAPhHj1LhYVmIsOXHTox/s640/blogger-image-1347261842.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizL2GF0tBPTcCWDDd6baQjNbTvqaKtmYe1JO3_187aws01MBL8M0niq4khcF_faw3OJ-lH9ivLdEbfjSDyR5bcEO7VgzU0B6mYCHUvR3WoJwfpC-eFTryL85OEMAPhHj1LhYVmIsOXHTox/s640/blogger-image-1347261842.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">After four more miles I see Choop come out of nowhere and hike up behind me. I haven't seen Choop since Tuolomne, but he's sort of known for coming out of nowhere. He hikes so fast, I say hello as he jogs past me. We start switch backing up a hill, Choop getting further and further ahead of me as the switchbacks get shorter and steeper.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">After an hour of following Choop I realize that something is off. I've had this feeling before in Yosemite. Am I on trail? I thought the trail should be going down for a while, not switchbacking up a mountain. I look at my phone and see that at some point today I got off trail. The phone says that the trail is a third of a mile to the southwest, but I look southwest and it's straight down the side of the mountain. Ugh.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK-An2EsmhUwWZzOotzSLNKkUHMVjrtKVcT59JxpaExxlSCb-ayPq3MOvnenQnpq9_O6Nk-O0Rfd3OIR1qSG_IKeRCd4Al8fsvweOIKTG6Xa7QJQ90udmimhJEhzemb2F36sgH40CpxzeF/s640/blogger-image-43882695.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK-An2EsmhUwWZzOotzSLNKkUHMVjrtKVcT59JxpaExxlSCb-ayPq3MOvnenQnpq9_O6Nk-O0Rfd3OIR1qSG_IKeRCd4Al8fsvweOIKTG6Xa7QJQ90udmimhJEhzemb2F36sgH40CpxzeF/s640/blogger-image-43882695.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I crash through brush and trees, moving slowly downhill as I weave around obstacles on the steep slope. I hate to get lost and leave the trail I'm on, but I feel pretty confident using a GPS and compass. I find the trail right where it should be and sit to think about how in the world I got so lost. It must have been when I started following Choop.</div><br></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">After getting back on the PCT I can feel my adrenaline still pumping. I try to use it to my advantage and increase my speed, but soon I start tripping over rocks and roots. I roll my ankle once, twice, and decide that I need to sit down and calm myself so I find a big rock and sit to eat my lunch. By this time it's already 2:00pm and I've only made it ten miles, obviously not including my extra hike up and down a mountain. I decide that there's no way I can make 25 miles today so I take an extra ten minutes for lunch, resigned to the fact that it will be a shorter day than expected.</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGrehSbVMC85mTwLPHlzhQs8_aafoAOQ6g59fchWoG_sa1mBdxFFKmXU6n3wFzkGSqRCm14MMynfBLPyWigutpuV18NPKf1ysyNZt1PfJHQCQbZEa-Lx9biGJUokKrkhJF_GUvN6ldmiHN/s640/blogger-image-2115395806.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGrehSbVMC85mTwLPHlzhQs8_aafoAOQ6g59fchWoG_sa1mBdxFFKmXU6n3wFzkGSqRCm14MMynfBLPyWigutpuV18NPKf1ysyNZt1PfJHQCQbZEa-Lx9biGJUokKrkhJF_GUvN6ldmiHN/s640/blogger-image-2115395806.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">After lunch I continue hiking over rolling hills into the Desolation Wilderness. It's a beautiful, but repetitive trail with no big views. The sky starts turning dark as I hike through the late afternoon and I watch it wearily hoping it doesn't start to rain and slow me down even further.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-3yEZRfSi_Ay8l3FKkv0skAslnXRhemcAqhW5kII1KnUz3Yk0pNcL8G798ijHXuG9hAKMT3B2X-0fZPPfjAkoJBn2mSsbGN3PhyzB6_3V1p1S1lYgY4RUHF7Q1ff_dveNy4N_UUMXhx1m/s640/blogger-image-1049957617.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-3yEZRfSi_Ay8l3FKkv0skAslnXRhemcAqhW5kII1KnUz3Yk0pNcL8G798ijHXuG9hAKMT3B2X-0fZPPfjAkoJBn2mSsbGN3PhyzB6_3V1p1S1lYgY4RUHF7Q1ff_dveNy4N_UUMXhx1m/s640/blogger-image-1049957617.jpg"></a></div></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">I eventually hit 20 miles and decide to stop for the day. I didn't reach my original goal, but 20 miles is a good day and I'm happy that I made it this far sanely and in one piece. I swat five mosquitos off of my calf, three off my left elbow, and one off my neck as I set up my tent quickly to lessen my contact time with bloodthirsty insects.</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">As I'm finishing setting up camp I see Soapbox and his lady friend again. She seems to be having a tough time with the hiking pace, and who wouldn't, so they decide to camp next to me. She crawls in the tent while Soapbox and I start a fire and cook our dinners. We talk about the trail and our life at home. He's a really smart, funny, nice guy and I enjoy talking to him as the sun goes down. </font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">I eventually look at my watch and see that it's past 9:30pm. I yawn and say goodnight to Soapbox. Hopefully tomorrow I'm more willing to get up early than I was today! Today was exhausting!</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">Day 80</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">Miles 1124-1127</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">I wake up a few times during the night to the sound of rain pattering on my tent. When I wake up again at 5:30, the rain is still falling. The storm shouldn't last very long, heck it wasn't even predicted, so I guess this means I get to sleep longer!</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">I turn over, snooze a few more times, and eat my breakfast while waiting for the rain to stop. It never does. I finally start packing at 8:30 and get out if camp quickly after that. My tent and rainfly are soaked, so I strap them to the top of my pack hoping I can take them out to dry once the sun shines again. Soapbox and his girlfriend are still in their tent as I leave camp and I wish them well on the rest of her visit.</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">As I start the ascent to Barker Pass the wind begins to pick up. The rain starts blowing horizontally under my umbrella as I crest the pass. I'm uncomfortable, already wet from the waist down, but I feel good. </div></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS2dCWVK06_3O_afZEgeTJ_I17tQg3J43usR8xPLAO_CvNkzUVe2ud1__2MuAhU0evnAbDHEiNKLyNzKeAqFTiFyqfM4WFMrgN_5xd51GpGPVIU9ix0MbWuRAtQTrbDcDWTC39Pzr6Dq2x/s640/blogger-image--1405819846.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS2dCWVK06_3O_afZEgeTJ_I17tQg3J43usR8xPLAO_CvNkzUVe2ud1__2MuAhU0evnAbDHEiNKLyNzKeAqFTiFyqfM4WFMrgN_5xd51GpGPVIU9ix0MbWuRAtQTrbDcDWTC39Pzr6Dq2x/s640/blogger-image--1405819846.jpg"></a></div><br></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">When I get to Barker Pass the wind picks up even more and the temperature feels like it's dropping. I hike on quickly, trying to stay warm in my shorts. I'm wearing shorts because they dry much quicker than pants, but this wind is making me second guess that decision. </font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">There's a road that goes over the pass and, a total surprise, I see that there's a public privy. I've heard of hikers waiting out storms and even sleeping in restrooms, but until now I've never seen the need. Right now though, that cement building looks like heaven. </font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN9wSVlrfqPfyV4SF0o9qC1qA3jwFPEA7XYkYN1WFBjMBnYTwsLP4eTqw9eEOZ4uJ9Xi-FZb-HlaEOUO3UEGjBJ9MFEzG9LkheWfMGadrFPyO4Sk7a1vopm5zhv6FDDBXlDmV1r-tKdBsg/s640/blogger-image--1958544069.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN9wSVlrfqPfyV4SF0o9qC1qA3jwFPEA7XYkYN1WFBjMBnYTwsLP4eTqw9eEOZ4uJ9Xi-FZb-HlaEOUO3UEGjBJ9MFEzG9LkheWfMGadrFPyO4Sk7a1vopm5zhv6FDDBXlDmV1r-tKdBsg/s640/blogger-image--1958544069.jpg"></a></div><br></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">I sit in the bathroom for a while and warm up as the storm rages on outside. An hour goes by and I start seeing cars coming in and out of the parking lot, perhaps coming in for a day hike and changing their mind once they see the weather. I start wondering if I could hitch into town from this road. No, that's ridiculous, I'm fine. My tent is wet and it will likely still be damp when I set it up tonight, but that's not a huge deal. </font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">Then I see some joggers coming off the trail and running towards their car. I change my mind and decide that I do want to hitch into town. Why not? This isn't a contest and I don't have to prove how tough I am by walking cold and wet through a storm. I want to dry my tent and charge my electronics and why shouldn't I?</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">I flag down the couple, explain my situation, and they happily agree to give me a lift to Tahoe. On the way down the mountain I learn that they're brother and sister, Carl and Renee, and they're originally from Rockford Michigan. My ex-boyfriend's family is from Rockford and it turns out Renee grew up with my ex's brother. Small world!</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">Carl and Renee drop my off in Tahoe City and I thank them profusely for the hitch. Tahoe city is 45 minutes north of South Lake Tahoe, but still on the lake. It's sunny and beautiful down here and the streets are bustling with tourists in stretch pants and sandles. What a change from an hour ago! I</font><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> find a motel room and book it to the nearest pizza place.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOXrsE-CwYFV4VKkPmsPEHfbXp2_lxOOTtf2MJBrDI0tjVWc7aEsmsLOaMqy2kMIOwpMGFZo8OVNFZAVxjiS_GFPRTbhuZIIgHvWsGfLoQ-JrnBZTGYp-XMV3y4p9DP3SKfcV1dZdmkBDP/s640/blogger-image--1302173695.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOXrsE-CwYFV4VKkPmsPEHfbXp2_lxOOTtf2MJBrDI0tjVWc7aEsmsLOaMqy2kMIOwpMGFZo8OVNFZAVxjiS_GFPRTbhuZIIgHvWsGfLoQ-JrnBZTGYp-XMV3y4p9DP3SKfcV1dZdmkBDP/s640/blogger-image--1302173695.jpg"></a></div><br></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">After lunch I pick up some ice cream at Safeway and go back to my room. I explode my pack on the bed and start pulling out my things to dry.</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1TmRzLXdyPAmuF_87sJny4OhCjPYRXIDWBgrjpF4y1knLQpLZ7e7vsSHmU43HQckv_XTy8GhnAPtUxyqiBI9bS8V0eCbdovlrjXHL7yfzE-AD6NDmFXfSIXH_VznkO4UTL1FBg3xCYzGv/s640/blogger-image-1232761096.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1TmRzLXdyPAmuF_87sJny4OhCjPYRXIDWBgrjpF4y1knLQpLZ7e7vsSHmU43HQckv_XTy8GhnAPtUxyqiBI9bS8V0eCbdovlrjXHL7yfzE-AD6NDmFXfSIXH_VznkO4UTL1FBg3xCYzGv/s640/blogger-image-1232761096.jpg"></a></div><br></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">The trail can be so unpredictable, but today is another example of how the trail provided when I really needed it. I'm broke and these motel rooms aren't cheap, but I'm warm, happy, and excited about the adventures to come. </font></div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860000285673806917.post-3831536157356596312014-06-23T21:46:00.001-07:002014-06-23T22:49:41.605-07:00PCT Days 66-72<div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Day 66</span></div><div>Miles 907-917</div><div><br></div><div>I don't want to leave Mammoth. I feel distracted and pack my bag slowly while <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">playing on my cell phone, paying full attention to neither. I'm avoiding the inevitable departure from comfort. Why is leaving town so difficult, I ask myself as I put the key cards on the kitchen counter and walk to the elevator.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">The German's, Moxie and I get a ride back to the trail head at Red's Meadow by the sister of a hiker who lives in the area. I'm grateful that she went out of her way to drive us to the trailhead, but I'm having a hard time focusing on the conversation while she drives. I watch the resorts and roads turn into trees and rivers as we wind our way back into the Sierras.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I get out of the car feeling like im on a vacation that's gone on too long. I feel restless even though I'm physically exhausted and unprepared even though I'm doing the same activity I have been for the last two months.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">My backpack is heavy, I may have gone overboard with my food for this 4 or 5 day section, the sun is making me sweat uncontrollably, and the trail is packed with tourists. We're hiking past Devil's Postpile. The trail is swarming with moms wearing jean shorts and dads carrying babies on their backs. I feel seperate from these people, visitors to my uncomfortable reality.</font></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLaOUXw0E6CA0EEQfG5rDRyCNmbyBAQOplY_VBTiFhq-2XCsn942XJYyKFj-CK1YOAhvNT6ut3hOLsmZTgTdC3Y-ujtnZBe2HpmbXgQgQMA2IKT965a7n-RJZyZrQoibLe7pb6s1oU2daK/s640/blogger-image-1738770962.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLaOUXw0E6CA0EEQfG5rDRyCNmbyBAQOplY_VBTiFhq-2XCsn942XJYyKFj-CK1YOAhvNT6ut3hOLsmZTgTdC3Y-ujtnZBe2HpmbXgQgQMA2IKT965a7n-RJZyZrQoibLe7pb6s1oU2daK/s640/blogger-image-1738770962.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I see a sign that says I'm entering the Ansel Adams Wilderness right before the John Muir Trail and the PCT seperate for 14 miles. The JMT goes from Yosemite to Mt Whitney and shares most of it's miles with the PCT, but in a few sections like this one the trails diverge. The guidebook recommends taking the JMT for this section, and most hikers do, but I decide against it. On a spur of the moment decision I split from my friends and take the PCT alone. I'm in a bad mood and I don't want to spoil anyone else's time. Besides, maybe some time alone will help me feel better.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I walk a few miles, feeling good about my decision to take some alone time, before coming upon a couple and their horse eating on the bank of a river. The man asks me about my hike and introduces himself as <span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">George Two Horses. He's a section chief of section A of the PCT, from Campo to Warner Springs. He's in this section for the summer helping with trail maintenance. George Two Horses gives me some greif for not being a paid member of the PCTA, he says the trail doesn't take care of itself, but becomes quite friendly as he asks more about my hike. He asks if I'll count the number of trees in the trail for the next 8 miles and email him with the number. I agree and hike on.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I hike up a river valley for two hours before deciding to take a break. I see a campsite between the trail and a cliff edge, so I stop and lay my things on a wide, flat rock. I set out my solar charger and my phone, use my pack as a pillow and close my eyes.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I wake<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> up in the sun twenty minutes later and decide to set up my tent. I don't feel like hiking today and I could use more sleep. I make a rice side for dinner, it's steak flavored rice tonight, and I crawl into my tent while the sun is still shining.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div>Day 67</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Miles 917-942</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I start hiking early, climbing up the side of a valley and switchbacking until I come to the top of a ridge. I turn around and take a picture while the sun rises and spreads its light into the valley I hiked through yesterday.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEstMwfh3ZwoOWzyMWYcFPO2ml8VGee7XKSTYMICPwmlkvm-i9XubBDPYvJV1j7zVJGaa8mg9gxGym1-Ysvk_i6TtyyMsPJEp5oDG6XA8mD0OHr4AkRvZXDDPt7bAHmR_0lD_zQA99yw_C/s640/blogger-image--942356374.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEstMwfh3ZwoOWzyMWYcFPO2ml8VGee7XKSTYMICPwmlkvm-i9XubBDPYvJV1j7zVJGaa8mg9gxGym1-Ysvk_i6TtyyMsPJEp5oDG6XA8mD0OHr4AkRvZXDDPt7bAHmR_0lD_zQA99yw_C/s640/blogger-image--942356374.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I continue to climb the ridge until I come to a large flat area dotted with deep blue lakes. This is Thousand Island Lakes. The area reminds me of my trips to the Enchantments in Washington. It's incredible to be in an alpine zone with delicate looking flowers contrasting the jagged snow covered peaks. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The PCT rejoins the JMT at the beginning of the lakes and I sit for a few minutes, wondering if Moxie and the Germans are ahead of me or behind. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVMwMoxSyVJ0sKlcx8oH315ipzzJFBCzhzeT7uuHyhBIz5SQmLk7xe2A34aTAG5W3-6hgVEAkWX79d-SX558LJ3lmj__0FRk5G3e0qPZ-QjNZAG_fAgB9MMGUhyiTqdfoWtKSAOOYoX5mn/s640/blogger-image-1259325120.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVMwMoxSyVJ0sKlcx8oH315ipzzJFBCzhzeT7uuHyhBIz5SQmLk7xe2A34aTAG5W3-6hgVEAkWX79d-SX558LJ3lmj__0FRk5G3e0qPZ-QjNZAG_fAgB9MMGUhyiTqdfoWtKSAOOYoX5mn/s640/blogger-image-1259325120.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The trail descends from Thousand Island Lakes into a deep, rocky valley before starting the climb to Donohue Pass. As I hike down into the valley I see JMT hikers hiking south. Most JMT'ers hike North to south and these hikers all started in Yosemite only a few days ago. They still have all of the big passes to cross: Muir, Mather, Glen, Forrester. Their packs look huge and I imagine they're stuffed with fishing poles, three-person tents, and too many clothes. I cruise down the trail, feeling like a veteran hiker with my small, well-organized pack. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The trail moves towards Donohue Pass through a giant boulder field and I sit on the biggest rock in the area, opening my bear can and pulling out my lunch: Olive cheese focaccia bread, summer sausage, and pepper jack cheese. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I'm so excited to eat but I can't get my summer sausage out of it's plastic wrapper. I don't want to reach into my pack for my knife, so I squeeze on the wrapper, trying to force the sausage up and out of the plastic. The sausage finally releases it's grip on the plastic and it shoots straight up into the air, over my head and into the boulder field. The sausage lands on top of a rock and rolls down to its base. I scramble down the boulder hurriedly, brush the dirt <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">(and probable marmot poop) </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">off the sausage and eat it anyway.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">After lunch I hike the rest of the way up to the pass. The top of the pass is covered in snow, obscuring the trail, but I eventually find my way and sit on a warm rock. I take a long break, hoping that someone I know will hike over soon as well.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDFIN6s1iE5cp65mTWV5KWqvXIj3hoI83wVdg6VMADfI2sF6TZ776vJVdML1_7wVLqaG51INzOKJBr6fRl2OJi1EtFiINosiAYJ7fvYAzOdosu78MQDWHwNU4FpkvFFQj0sgSJ8h07mdYZ/s640/blogger-image--398722411.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDFIN6s1iE5cp65mTWV5KWqvXIj3hoI83wVdg6VMADfI2sF6TZ776vJVdML1_7wVLqaG51INzOKJBr6fRl2OJi1EtFiINosiAYJ7fvYAzOdosu78MQDWHwNU4FpkvFFQj0sgSJ8h07mdYZ/s640/blogger-image--398722411.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">After an hour on the pass I see Moxie hiking through the snow. She wants to hike all the way to Tuolomne today, ten more miles. She says there is a snack bar and I agree to go with her, but only for the snack bar!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The last ten miles take us into a big open meadow. My feet hurt, but I distract myself by deciding on what I'll eat at the snack bar in Tuolomne Meadows.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWN4Ei7lh5TrEktiiUXKxtWJf2nivizIWl6ZQpDmTfxcMny-arVkKtFs2rURkyz9J0_uv-rBjK3O7xvn82NEYGN1qzH8J0yc-vH_fAsoFgyxphKtuCngihyphenhyphentHnIGQ9I_P767xgHkNnGi-N/s640/blogger-image-1463037565.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWN4Ei7lh5TrEktiiUXKxtWJf2nivizIWl6ZQpDmTfxcMny-arVkKtFs2rURkyz9J0_uv-rBjK3O7xvn82NEYGN1qzH8J0yc-vH_fAsoFgyxphKtuCngihyphenhyphentHnIGQ9I_P767xgHkNnGi-N/s640/blogger-image-1463037565.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCSh5p9MoVEY33sqcRHqBpjogp1JzZa7IVo_t3RG4N55aGyKZKujNV9tpjBfWuPX6iLXrV99PiND_ZMdQjOOdDV6Cfxl6PuKRv5PSj_3QjeiNhhzjbgtR-UNSogGt1lspcwuRH6LhGXkxy/s640/blogger-image-1928380991.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCSh5p9MoVEY33sqcRHqBpjogp1JzZa7IVo_t3RG4N55aGyKZKujNV9tpjBfWuPX6iLXrV99PiND_ZMdQjOOdDV6Cfxl6PuKRv5PSj_3QjeiNhhzjbgtR-UNSogGt1lspcwuRH6LhGXkxy/s640/blogger-image-1928380991.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Tuolomne Meadows is a campground in Yosemite. They do have a snack bar, but it's closed when we arrive. I set up my tent in the backpackers camp and walk around the massive campground. I eventually come across a big campsite filled with PCT hikers including Sug and Lingo, Acorn and Estero, Fence, Choop, Hog, and a few new hikers I haven't met yet. Soapbox, Quinua, Pedi and another guy whose name I forgot, so many hikers. I join them for a while and we all sit around the fire telling "LNT confessions."</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">LNT confessions are confessions of ways that you've broken the principals of Leave No Trace. A few people confess to not packing out their used toilet paper (cough cough) and one even confesses to pooping on top of Mt Whitney. Waste doesn't decompose at the top of Whitney so you're supposed to poop in a bag. I'm glad I went to the bathroom before summiting that day.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I sit for a while longer at the fire until I feel the exhaustion and fatigue settling on my body. Today was a long day and I'm pooped.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Day 68</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Miles 942-951</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I don't want to leave Tuolomne, but I don't want to stay either. I still feel like I'm moving so fast I don't have a chance to be present in a single place before moving on to the next.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I want to wait for Rocket, but I find myself packing my things and getting ready to hike out. After breakfast and a little resupplying I leave Tuolomne with Moxie and the Germans, right behind the Bubbies (that's what we call Firecracker and Tidy Camper). Yosemite looks much different than the areas we've crossed before, the mountains are smoother and there are waterfalls everywhere.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKmMVZLa67M3khwQCbE0IUpsRMF-ST2poO-XZy6sWsEUm51S-FE-EEU0s5MsIw2FD7ZNHckRwr0WFKXCE23Ry0LtdAgTIOtVozDEuvVJ6Q9bIZtuq-EgQMaCMEzUrUXnMs3jwEdpBR-WTP/s640/blogger-image--1480127476.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKmMVZLa67M3khwQCbE0IUpsRMF-ST2poO-XZy6sWsEUm51S-FE-EEU0s5MsIw2FD7ZNHckRwr0WFKXCE23Ry0LtdAgTIOtVozDEuvVJ6Q9bIZtuq-EgQMaCMEzUrUXnMs3jwEdpBR-WTP/s640/blogger-image--1480127476.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">After getting a few miles into the day I realize that I forgot to check in with my dad before the next section. Sorry dad!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuxe9y0BKRVwkfpbK0YB9JYJP13D4bC71WXJr1DS0sIFqtT1E09XCFxx76CJ_1JY3WphO2s8LxRs3loCOrndGFdjNwyZ3VK8vJuY9nEEebI3M2Ygw0k43PKpgY8LY0UrRXgVwobRrbRx0-/s640/blogger-image--1681880461.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuxe9y0BKRVwkfpbK0YB9JYJP13D4bC71WXJr1DS0sIFqtT1E09XCFxx76CJ_1JY3WphO2s8LxRs3loCOrndGFdjNwyZ3VK8vJuY9nEEebI3M2Ygw0k43PKpgY8LY0UrRXgVwobRrbRx0-/s640/blogger-image--1681880461.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We catch up to the bubbies quickly. We all eat lunch together on a rock overlooking a waterfall and I get a chance to talk to Firecracker a bit more. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Firecracker practices acupuncture and Chinese medicine. She tells us about each of our constitutional types, which are specific elements that have some sway on our personalities. Firecracker says that I'm an earth type, the same as her. She says that she could tell my type quickly because of my voice. Earth types are extremely intuitive about people, natural caregivers, and easily forget about their own needs. Interesting!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivWemS7QMw5TFc7YU8MCCoW9lSqMl5QarHx9F8xir8LHt1W-BHPJp8kEUnJbPzTQzyYRcUUiy5-6GD8C_X3Al90K3p6Edz4yt5_9b2O4Ke2Ajno2dSfGHE1Aq5TSOj0m6PLRtr0Gh42lcl/s640/blogger-image--532013453.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivWemS7QMw5TFc7YU8MCCoW9lSqMl5QarHx9F8xir8LHt1W-BHPJp8kEUnJbPzTQzyYRcUUiy5-6GD8C_X3Al90K3p6Edz4yt5_9b2O4Ke2Ajno2dSfGHE1Aq5TSOj0m6PLRtr0Gh42lcl/s640/blogger-image--532013453.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">After lunch the Bubbies hike ahead the Germans, Moxie, and I. We hang back, hiking slowly and talking about stopping. We've only hiked 9 miles, but I'm feeling sluggish and it's only supposed to be a partial day. Tortuga joins our camp as well, I haven't seen him since Red's Meadow, and we have a campfire on a big, flat rock. I'm happy that today is a light day, the Bubbies say this coming section is pretty difficult and I need more rest.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div>Day 69</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Miles 951-970</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I wake up around 6am and listen to the others eat breakfast and pack their things. I don't want to get up yet, it's too early and I'm too comfortable. I snooze a few more times before letting the air out of my sleeping pad at 7:30. I'm alone in camp and I take my time eating breakfast.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I hike out alone, not expecting to see any other hikers for a few hours. To my surprise I catch up to Joker, Cracker Keeper, Washpot, and Butters within an hour. So much for my solo hike!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9nIMn29DyUe2QUL3FHGtQWuOv2UD4rV6b953RElSbhw5DI5qlboLOyHIIl2Qp_kaQtvzO2Qibzz7NcyD7hrQDBeSOlQ_tFSSjrjy8iHxNLInnOFQwsLjUfQ7GuhpIsBqpIhPbTYCCUlfI/s640/blogger-image--64757578.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9nIMn29DyUe2QUL3FHGtQWuOv2UD4rV6b953RElSbhw5DI5qlboLOyHIIl2Qp_kaQtvzO2Qibzz7NcyD7hrQDBeSOlQ_tFSSjrjy8iHxNLInnOFQwsLjUfQ7GuhpIsBqpIhPbTYCCUlfI/s640/blogger-image--64757578.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Oh well, I really like everyone in this group. Joker and Cracker Keeper are an adorable couple from Bellingham who manage to split all of their food without issue, which I think says a lot about their relationship. Washpot is a friendly guy who works as a seasonal ski patrol in Colorado, and Butters is equally as friendly and hail</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">s from just outside of Portland.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">We all hike together for a little while until we cross paths with another forest ranger. She asks to see our bear canisters and lectures us about fires and packing out our toilet paper (cough cough). </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">So many people never see forest rangers on the PCT, I'm surprised that I've seen two so far.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">The trail goes up and down as usual, but much different than what I've gotten used to in the past few weeks. In the high sierras we had a lot of elevation gain in the morning, but the afternoon was all down hill. In this section the trail undulates slowly, passing high mountain lakes... </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0PONekQptNYAczygClAj-2ze80WtTbiVGoPV8OwveWzgLCnXY03WO9ERfNQqS2WDW_SG95KO5boZXykA7D14x9-hQdC4nbjzOmbXDkDdlgg29hOY3qWZmbIP3VZwoKrjtEARBi6NmQL3P/s640/blogger-image--1986206690.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0PONekQptNYAczygClAj-2ze80WtTbiVGoPV8OwveWzgLCnXY03WO9ERfNQqS2WDW_SG95KO5boZXykA7D14x9-hQdC4nbjzOmbXDkDdlgg29hOY3qWZmbIP3VZwoKrjtEARBi6NmQL3P/s640/blogger-image--1986206690.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">...and low lazy rivers before climping up to Benson Pass.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi95AqK1dgq7hlFW-TRDXC6HlGBkaNhcoC5M5oxjaEGG3kfiuiYAJ8DSNfdYteaJmR08mKc0BQi3YfgoJN-aeKTYW1QykmDBFxrM7dLeX29Lh_xcuFuzAY56mQGm9UIt4zzUcb6WPl6HQ3S/s640/blogger-image-1676143585.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi95AqK1dgq7hlFW-TRDXC6HlGBkaNhcoC5M5oxjaEGG3kfiuiYAJ8DSNfdYteaJmR08mKc0BQi3YfgoJN-aeKTYW1QykmDBFxrM7dLeX29Lh_xcuFuzAY56mQGm9UIt4zzUcb6WPl6HQ3S/s640/blogger-image-1676143585.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">On the way to the pass I stop and rinse my hair and face in a waterfall. The ice cold water on my face wakes me up for the last push up the mountain. As I get to the top of the pass, I can see Volunteer Peak slowly rising into view. Volunteer Peak is the tall peak in the distance on the left side of this photo.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVyvJjjtYQgoSDlaDkMWMgHDXdG6e0JTuZS9xvJe2SStHKxzDIwlw6KqJheCtOpEHifEbJGmmrg2C35ElqYZC2_Xmk5jDAQpTY0nMCGb4yIlVsmBiSy-Ftb2PYRhin0xTSXfdDWYXcTlgc/s640/blogger-image-1415372763.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVyvJjjtYQgoSDlaDkMWMgHDXdG6e0JTuZS9xvJe2SStHKxzDIwlw6KqJheCtOpEHifEbJGmmrg2C35ElqYZC2_Xmk5jDAQpTY0nMCGb4yIlVsmBiSy-Ftb2PYRhin0xTSXfdDWYXcTlgc/s640/blogger-image-1415372763.jpg"></a></div></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I recline at the top of the pass, elevating my feet on a rock and eating snacks until the rest of the hikers arrive. We all talk for a bit before finishing the last few miles. We descend to Smedberg Lake before climbing once again to our camp site.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgJ433Flo2pey4-Z-gcIUmpiWmUMmXWwaB6IOdrS1Vjp0bOkAlsRcAVCmcZVVqL7dgm5HwFHLpLz6zXs-5NOQKXFWipuIJCbcPcOOvwVwKhqEOfj01CV4JRZAai1zX67xD2h7Qbcgpe7Fs/s640/blogger-image--256991089.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgJ433Flo2pey4-Z-gcIUmpiWmUMmXWwaB6IOdrS1Vjp0bOkAlsRcAVCmcZVVqL7dgm5HwFHLpLz6zXs-5NOQKXFWipuIJCbcPcOOvwVwKhqEOfj01CV4JRZAai1zX67xD2h7Qbcgpe7Fs/s640/blogger-image--256991089.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>We find a beautiful campsite right below Volunteer Peak and I set up my tent in the mountain's long shadow. Princess and Mr Sandals stop too and we cook our dinner around a small campfire. I drink half a bottle of wine with dinner and stumble to my tent. I'm definitely lacking wine again in the next section.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsF0dPEy1w4k6AxrRF7ncjTOy24DorlW0ItnNwZEBa7N5H1oLjQHQ7MjZ07VXLAASy8HC8Vab9StkiKbqZ5E94ZwWmqE7qvQ9gq_2rViBM5qyUqFkB3osmU3MkJ3NBepguDtzVVCz5fyZB/s640/blogger-image-7729188.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsF0dPEy1w4k6AxrRF7ncjTOy24DorlW0ItnNwZEBa7N5H1oLjQHQ7MjZ07VXLAASy8HC8Vab9StkiKbqZ5E94ZwWmqE7qvQ9gq_2rViBM5qyUqFkB3osmU3MkJ3NBepguDtzVVCz5fyZB/s640/blogger-image-7729188.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Tortuga arrived at camp as I was crawling into my tent. Ten minutes later he asked if I was sleeping and told me to look at the sunset. Beautiful!</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi36ZUjPUUK1IGV-rg4P1npRiZ2ipaXxrSN4IIKtqZvVVpMQ73rZk5-8cogQoHbfUgtGsLh_FIosXHLB6NqaNMWxCh76mJ2gOtW1NVdGyY6j_yfr9f5ZF5iFCb76qbzNRTag0_zMdeoyXNO/s640/blogger-image-1840123392.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi36ZUjPUUK1IGV-rg4P1npRiZ2ipaXxrSN4IIKtqZvVVpMQ73rZk5-8cogQoHbfUgtGsLh_FIosXHLB6NqaNMWxCh76mJ2gOtW1NVdGyY6j_yfr9f5ZF5iFCb76qbzNRTag0_zMdeoyXNO/s640/blogger-image-1840123392.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Tonight I'm going to sleep happy and content. I'm realizing that my best days are those when I hike alone, at my own pace. I enjoy meeting up with others at camp, but if I hike too close to them during the day I find myself feeling anxious about keeping up or falling behind. I feel at home in my tent and, for the first time in a little while, I feel like I wouldn't want to be anywhere else on earth.</div><div><br></div><div>Day 70</div><div>Miles 970-988</div><div><br></div><div>Today is a picture day! </div><div><br></div><div>Highlights include:</div><div>-Lots of elevation gain again</div><div>-I thought it was going to rain (it didn't)</div><div>-Got to camp early and hung out with the Bubbies, the Germans, and Tortuga</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj36O9-vyGsOaktsCzqcwgrbyrlFewaW9E0IVgIuum3ATXw5zz2SGnxmT9zmwld9pw50TLaqMZkg4Erk68JdheEytg78SjqaKARBdGMyUwzrSDSt0ZdP3NZ92eQWGoRAOw8avLB72f9ukNu/s640/blogger-image--1480846433.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj36O9-vyGsOaktsCzqcwgrbyrlFewaW9E0IVgIuum3ATXw5zz2SGnxmT9zmwld9pw50TLaqMZkg4Erk68JdheEytg78SjqaKARBdGMyUwzrSDSt0ZdP3NZ92eQWGoRAOw8avLB72f9ukNu/s640/blogger-image--1480846433.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv_3_c_XSBXwEKkk1RrP6X1AynZ7ye9etYkY9LvQV6uftbFY7PCUu-QhkJMn5wMp3s-PgeY3ZOnh70ZC-35aUaC67IBm4yyMQje8wxEwzHKRzDQwHEWUKZH8hhhPsocWdu1C7aQuF3KWDs/s640/blogger-image--249629389.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv_3_c_XSBXwEKkk1RrP6X1AynZ7ye9etYkY9LvQV6uftbFY7PCUu-QhkJMn5wMp3s-PgeY3ZOnh70ZC-35aUaC67IBm4yyMQje8wxEwzHKRzDQwHEWUKZH8hhhPsocWdu1C7aQuF3KWDs/s640/blogger-image--249629389.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk6yJ94re9vi0rpQobaPwYew52z6kDD5urmHIYyfGhvxBmSZ-Y33XxWvkRfB_kFHGUlnpLyOTZONXBrxYeCjr86Ojc4N7jGl_I9va77ZKoubraAHC7g4GqkfLk0aSRon9DzaTwWA3UYbEV/s640/blogger-image--425849406.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk6yJ94re9vi0rpQobaPwYew52z6kDD5urmHIYyfGhvxBmSZ-Y33XxWvkRfB_kFHGUlnpLyOTZONXBrxYeCjr86Ojc4N7jGl_I9va77ZKoubraAHC7g4GqkfLk0aSRon9DzaTwWA3UYbEV/s640/blogger-image--425849406.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggFBaJB78bbxt80rxL90VSBaS2s_yPaGrmJdlZ9uH_5V8nm2HqNWZkzRtiZJ8XWaNUeP2aynp1TIX3cnYbWovgYWWvTQ4iz2OnHZjBd29CHLVQhQYcnn_OpE2JvjhEs5zprHC7m-E8D-wk/s640/blogger-image-1780457080.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggFBaJB78bbxt80rxL90VSBaS2s_yPaGrmJdlZ9uH_5V8nm2HqNWZkzRtiZJ8XWaNUeP2aynp1TIX3cnYbWovgYWWvTQ4iz2OnHZjBd29CHLVQhQYcnn_OpE2JvjhEs5zprHC7m-E8D-wk/s640/blogger-image-1780457080.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjujH7LdCaJ1MA7gGtHChZUNlI6YH4wrDZhztIDzi6F5IwosHzVIbPW-VTgHFiLN7GMlG7mJwXu35S-57Omd_-oh1kzGVgS410OQWlpog_iJTVMkgIE9zY4yqRAPGELos8ukfBu43eAFGfQ/s640/blogger-image--1184606265.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjujH7LdCaJ1MA7gGtHChZUNlI6YH4wrDZhztIDzi6F5IwosHzVIbPW-VTgHFiLN7GMlG7mJwXu35S-57Omd_-oh1kzGVgS410OQWlpog_iJTVMkgIE9zY4yqRAPGELos8ukfBu43eAFGfQ/s640/blogger-image--1184606265.jpg"></a></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg84LrmYR8RyyVx40kSf427f_9F4ByObUSz3m7KS0NaFXeHH_0-BsNVmLn9BoyZa4v7QdoeL1gcns6ElYbp2DPLMJembrZfLOok_p8V6sIO4wTG09c1eVygMCxkPIwL36hk9rPE54ZJuJi3/s640/blogger-image-1516797215.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg84LrmYR8RyyVx40kSf427f_9F4ByObUSz3m7KS0NaFXeHH_0-BsNVmLn9BoyZa4v7QdoeL1gcns6ElYbp2DPLMJembrZfLOok_p8V6sIO4wTG09c1eVygMCxkPIwL36hk9rPE54ZJuJi3/s640/blogger-image-1516797215.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Day 71</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Miles <a href="tel:988-1007" x-apple-data-detectors="true" x-apple-data-detectors-type="telephone" x-apple-data-detectors-result="0">988-1007</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">More pictures!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5buzZAyxgCzumW7EFp0mXK7Kqz2tgf7K1xNAMFAVryOT0w3fZ865xMYInMmeBERuuSqXzvE4I2TpGcH0kY8u0GXtPqlHXEcoc1PWNOeKfYyY3pPs2P5P3-b8Uy3p1zP6J5eCuao7opuIB/s640/blogger-image-2007999224.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5buzZAyxgCzumW7EFp0mXK7Kqz2tgf7K1xNAMFAVryOT0w3fZ865xMYInMmeBERuuSqXzvE4I2TpGcH0kY8u0GXtPqlHXEcoc1PWNOeKfYyY3pPs2P5P3-b8Uy3p1zP6J5eCuao7opuIB/s640/blogger-image-2007999224.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh36xPtapuQe86BrpNsPr3HgxVIRoLV2ScvP03UCbXI5y6diYuLnSAFeJtHAg4sod57Mig5vVzPwWw5ve5R4lwl6BuzfITKJQTCeDrJ8U3-UDq4eiNXwL57e60Hv0_RlUL7wS8KpTj7gdCr/s640/blogger-image-168666684.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh36xPtapuQe86BrpNsPr3HgxVIRoLV2ScvP03UCbXI5y6diYuLnSAFeJtHAg4sod57Mig5vVzPwWw5ve5R4lwl6BuzfITKJQTCeDrJ8U3-UDq4eiNXwL57e60Hv0_RlUL7wS8KpTj7gdCr/s640/blogger-image-168666684.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiohSr2Wo3gbisd8tNmrHzrzcbCDkgHIqUuAwtoin2GDlvUQPRj4CJqJvM6bK__LeqaL8Q8XKRmiu9g0w_ZboAKiT3Vde-IIj3AQOte18JBm9Yx5ofb1foRuiSVgSAXvnEwnfe0fuOGbvFw/s640/blogger-image-1885526872.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiohSr2Wo3gbisd8tNmrHzrzcbCDkgHIqUuAwtoin2GDlvUQPRj4CJqJvM6bK__LeqaL8Q8XKRmiu9g0w_ZboAKiT3Vde-IIj3AQOte18JBm9Yx5ofb1foRuiSVgSAXvnEwnfe0fuOGbvFw/s640/blogger-image-1885526872.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrc5lQYhBrcKT8yOBB7Cq8ahg0SAcKe9eU1g1oYTrhgZ5XL2sPZdsMZ3VO7YgP1cqwPRMBCdou5JYI8ofk_EEnq8zp5tXLfeeuIuZRJpZ5E122c3faO5BjcMRNVLnLpA915NMJW9m6wn0H/s640/blogger-image--1961134815.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrc5lQYhBrcKT8yOBB7Cq8ahg0SAcKe9eU1g1oYTrhgZ5XL2sPZdsMZ3VO7YgP1cqwPRMBCdou5JYI8ofk_EEnq8zp5tXLfeeuIuZRJpZ5E122c3faO5BjcMRNVLnLpA915NMJW9m6wn0H/s640/blogger-image--1961134815.jpg"></a></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I pass the 1,000 mile mark at lunch. Only 1,660 miles to go! Wooooo!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizB8Q7a0YZsBGMYEbE8sFjCqs3wgDT581FS4t790FWaenzN8BtvtSHYArq0OABbI6OWkqUoJHxWxUHft1Arbjfbp_DCuHGwgPgOdIX7gZTnkYqFXXZwEqnpqR27uPexK0OuZb3HBBxLmGG/s640/blogger-image--2086387599.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizB8Q7a0YZsBGMYEbE8sFjCqs3wgDT581FS4t790FWaenzN8BtvtSHYArq0OABbI6OWkqUoJHxWxUHft1Arbjfbp_DCuHGwgPgOdIX7gZTnkYqFXXZwEqnpqR27uPexK0OuZb3HBBxLmGG/s640/blogger-image--2086387599.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I get to camp first and start a fire before other hikers begin trickling in. The campsite is at the base of a big mountain only 11 miles from the next road, so I know there will be a lot of people camping here tonight. First comes Moxie, then the Germans, then the Bubbies, then two hikers I've never met, Solitude and Ridge Runner.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">This is the biggest goup I've seen around a campfire on the PCT and we have a great time. Firecracker is playing the bongos on someone's bear can, we're singing songs (including some of my favorite Janis Joplin songs) and we all watch the fire and about love, heartbreak, and our lives before the trail.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Also, today the Bubbies asked me if I'm afraid of my own death. They are now officially two of my favorite people. </div><br></div>Day 72</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Miles 1007-1018</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The past few days have been strange and today is the strangest of all. I feel good. I mean, I feel GOOD. I've never felt as comfortable on the trail as I have in the past few days. Day 66 was a low point, but since then I've felt progressively better and better. Today's hike has a lot of elevation gain (I acknowledge that I say that almost every day), but my energy level is high and I'm ready to hike these miles!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-4Tm3j1zEA53LLwJVm0udDjutlZvyV4CMmdAQNWkpxPN4mWoeCP3H2Lg9vasgCIR-wLNAWoStjB3VfNQZJYIhko61XvgJFStwuSz8edbZWZSF-CjjTwht-gp5Xq2Q2KF7zefsay9HOpDf/s640/blogger-image-637413922.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-4Tm3j1zEA53LLwJVm0udDjutlZvyV4CMmdAQNWkpxPN4mWoeCP3H2Lg9vasgCIR-wLNAWoStjB3VfNQZJYIhko61XvgJFStwuSz8edbZWZSF-CjjTwht-gp5Xq2Q2KF7zefsay9HOpDf/s640/blogger-image-637413922.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The trail takes us up, out of the forest and onto some massive volcanic ridges. How can the PCT keep getting more and more beautiful? How us this possible?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRATLoqC8Ja74z5wI9ypQM_aPvsMau85mjmt4sKUYlwu-IR_uF0bMbAJcTKvdNoAnnqZrUG2sYiCuEZmlIZr5cnFtSEcdliIGHar3Zgy8Uj_8bYPH7EP0qtO7bwKpIQNiJqUeivz8AMn5L/s640/blogger-image--1027209011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRATLoqC8Ja74z5wI9ypQM_aPvsMau85mjmt4sKUYlwu-IR_uF0bMbAJcTKvdNoAnnqZrUG2sYiCuEZmlIZr5cnFtSEcdliIGHar3Zgy8Uj_8bYPH7EP0qtO7bwKpIQNiJqUeivz8AMn5L/s640/blogger-image--1027209011.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">More snow... I thought I was done with the snow!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiagE9PGBegbJMMvRX7DOdoPdweJItuh-z4CahP7d5Ip8BpVA9mu-QFiALhtm3lE0Mf4JUzFsFcWVZscXbSy5MDRdMsOKYELRnXXiz0AB0tOgFR9Kp48RfL26tga1SveiFNTK0F2N5Pmjc-/s640/blogger-image-395782878.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiagE9PGBegbJMMvRX7DOdoPdweJItuh-z4CahP7d5Ip8BpVA9mu-QFiALhtm3lE0Mf4JUzFsFcWVZscXbSy5MDRdMsOKYELRnXXiz0AB0tOgFR9Kp48RfL26tga1SveiFNTK0F2N5Pmjc-/s640/blogger-image-395782878.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU3CriE2sPeHwjS0bF1lx9xzc1qW9VIOC9Z9GsRHbyRY8bhBi_FNX5jJNO6Lm0uyKTMpMb3HdEb9wNVfoGSKNMVCNQ-lMNTFwKOrcA95qc3DERocSu5cN4yTD6SBb9EpgMqQgaynkuDA3F/s640/blogger-image-1172466145.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU3CriE2sPeHwjS0bF1lx9xzc1qW9VIOC9Z9GsRHbyRY8bhBi_FNX5jJNO6Lm0uyKTMpMb3HdEb9wNVfoGSKNMVCNQ-lMNTFwKOrcA95qc3DERocSu5cN4yTD6SBb9EpgMqQgaynkuDA3F/s640/blogger-image-1172466145.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG_8eFmJSeSFYIRGAQ9NfLYb3jtp8X3nvZ8gEUmbfvsagwvJrphyphenhyphenZ-Zlp1kp9HRreeVwP2LQ0KWX-vGnqwpUznflh6TL5c86deyJvqWW_5aAMQh5pZkkGeWftnlQyPYktkHpGju2qbRs-_/s640/blogger-image-1083678423.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG_8eFmJSeSFYIRGAQ9NfLYb3jtp8X3nvZ8gEUmbfvsagwvJrphyphenhyphenZ-Zlp1kp9HRreeVwP2LQ0KWX-vGnqwpUznflh6TL5c86deyJvqWW_5aAMQh5pZkkGeWftnlQyPYktkHpGju2qbRs-_/s640/blogger-image-1083678423.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We make it to Sonora Pass before lunch and start trying to hitch a ride. Hitch hiking is still so strange to me. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">You really think I'm trying to give you a thumbs up? Does this hat make me look more or less intimidating? Why would you pull over just to tell me that you can't give me a ride?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Eventually we get picked up by a lovely couple from Sacramento celebrating their 25th wedding anniversary. We all squeeze into the cab of their giant truck and ride down the pass into Kennedy Meadows.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP1S_ls3vKY-URA2p_MNNZclYBUmw9PxlpzbvBH3wfSzWYNZ66l25Cl005LUuUy47woeYmjkifz4pcCSXQNbBRfcfH5qFpxEkcDoJtqUtNx_w58uUhcokoNfMHHYeQrxXFSPwU_Tq0pWV8/s640/blogger-image-1761985174.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP1S_ls3vKY-URA2p_MNNZclYBUmw9PxlpzbvBH3wfSzWYNZ66l25Cl005LUuUy47woeYmjkifz4pcCSXQNbBRfcfH5qFpxEkcDoJtqUtNx_w58uUhcokoNfMHHYeQrxXFSPwU_Tq0pWV8/s640/blogger-image-1761985174.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Kennedy Meadows North isn't a town, it's a pack station. I can't google the term "pack station" so I can't tell you what exactly a pack station is. I do know that it involves horses, cowboys, and packing things. This pack station has some cabins, a store, a restaurant, and some hiker dorms on the top floor.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaXrFYFlN91GinOY44j9InOsWF372hBjK10qcSzj2pKvpg2rUFxoawJSAnVKGm0Vy1N8BGj2nYiUeVXFrtPFlpw138zjefTzHBMSqHVHtYnbS6tLmEn28FPmeHYM4pFAtRyMMfbU8GM95b/s640/blogger-image-526937402.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaXrFYFlN91GinOY44j9InOsWF372hBjK10qcSzj2pKvpg2rUFxoawJSAnVKGm0Vy1N8BGj2nYiUeVXFrtPFlpw138zjefTzHBMSqHVHtYnbS6tLmEn28FPmeHYM4pFAtRyMMfbU8GM95b/s640/blogger-image-526937402.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The station rents dorms and offers a shower, laundry, and a dorm bed for $35. I share a room with the Germans, Moxie and Solitude. We all met the Bubbies and Tortuga at the restaurant and eat dinner. This is such a great group of people, everyone is so funny and so kind. I buy a $6 bottle of Franzia from the store and split it with Princess and Solitude. Solitude buys another bottle and I think I drink most of it. Now I'm drunk and tired and happy and ready for the next four day section to South Lake Tahoe.</div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860000285673806917.post-27633399521298629712014-06-12T10:11:00.001-07:002014-06-12T10:11:30.117-07:00PCT Days 57-65Day 57<div>Miles 789-790 (plus 7.5 Kearsarge Trail)</div><div><br></div><div>I wake up and there is a dull pain on the left side of my jaw. Not tooth pain, but pain in the joint so that I can't bite down all of the way. Maybe I have tetanus? Of course I don't have tetanus. Maybe I just slept on it weird or something.</div><div><br></div><div>I get up and walk across the street to the only breakfast place in town, Jenny's. Gretchen is there, eating with Halfmile and Deb. I haven't seen Halfmile and Deb since the first few weeks on trail. I think I mentioned it before, but Halfmile is the guy who makes the maps and the iPhone app that I use to navigate the trail. I've met so many trail-ebrities! I join their table and eat a giant burrito, knowing it will be my last town meal until Mammoth in 8 days.</div><div><br></div><div>On the way back to the hostel we see a hiker in the distance walking towards us...</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg24qp8V3YBAnXBvJ2qvgdSBnZqZlq_jxkNwDnAGmPWnEGJQK3fSM7O4VzyTR0seayCepi6g9LDEV6Q2h1HKJnzjMQEs81lvOpdRPt44hvmz-wF-9W32_o3boK7EoJjp3thdB8iEp5Ku3cI/s640/blogger-image-1273219555.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg24qp8V3YBAnXBvJ2qvgdSBnZqZlq_jxkNwDnAGmPWnEGJQK3fSM7O4VzyTR0seayCepi6g9LDEV6Q2h1HKJnzjMQEs81lvOpdRPt44hvmz-wF-9W32_o3boK7EoJjp3thdB8iEp5Ku3cI/s640/blogger-image-1273219555.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">...Who is it? As she gets closer she starts dancing and acting like a crazy person. Oh my god It's Teddy Rose! We all hug and laugh and bring Teddy back to our hostel. She got back on trail a few days ago and has been hiking mostly alone. She's about two days behind us, but getting closer!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Teddy took the bus into Independence from Lone Pine so she agrees to wait with us while we get our Subway sandwhiches to-go and hitchhike back to the trail.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">While waiting for a hitch, someone uses the word "moxie" and Gretchen lights up.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">"That would be a great trail name," says Gretchen.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">"I've never heard of anyone else with that name," replies Teddy Rose.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">"That's your trail name!" Rocket exclaims. Rocket uses her trekking pole to dub Gretchen with her new trail name, Moxie. It suits her perfectly.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioUvRX2UwlJMKPWSeVcAnggfd0G4lc-vMsVR2VRB16Piy9ELufyC3wfU8GcJkU0v81Tfx1z00AfS8aYeWa-0ueGlYzny95R3Myk1Kk87m1_H086_Z5FVw3SDzPEcLUTHcr7357R0xA9OoP/s640/blogger-image--2062110978.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioUvRX2UwlJMKPWSeVcAnggfd0G4lc-vMsVR2VRB16Piy9ELufyC3wfU8GcJkU0v81Tfx1z00AfS8aYeWa-0ueGlYzny95R3Myk1Kk87m1_H086_Z5FVw3SDzPEcLUTHcr7357R0xA9OoP/s640/blogger-image--2062110978.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We get a ride, thanks to Moxie, after only ten minutes. We hop into the bed of a truck and ride the 13 miles back to Onion Valley trailhead.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiknM_tD2jOJEV1p_OPI1miEQw7VopD74b9vhE9EWwmS1CMXfNG8y3OZmJcW2iykAAubCgehTpuKLru8Ge2H0e8JCDfBL7_OYfS0YKrqFqv4gE_QM4rU-WG4A28cV_6gIWKZQ98ofVEGP9h/s640/blogger-image-1424670275.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiknM_tD2jOJEV1p_OPI1miEQw7VopD74b9vhE9EWwmS1CMXfNG8y3OZmJcW2iykAAubCgehTpuKLru8Ge2H0e8JCDfBL7_OYfS0YKrqFqv4gE_QM4rU-WG4A28cV_6gIWKZQ98ofVEGP9h/s640/blogger-image-1424670275.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">It's my first day on trail in something like six days. I can't bring myself to actually count how many days I spent off trail, but it was enough to make my body feel like jello when I'm hiking again. My legs burn as I ascend the 3,000 feet in elevation back up to Kearsarge Pass. I fall behind Gretchen and Rocket and take extra breaks, but I don't mind. I'm excited to be back on trail and I feel great. I find a rock to sit on in the sun and eat part of my sub.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWSKXYesMZ4dnp6_nq87dqWcvTtIsXLRH93fiG3D-DjrxkWiF3p6EOgjDjNXOPem_DNT64QaajoepkNpe8Eq14d1x9c1gEfDYkuaq39Hk7widuqnhgI1lK6RaKoSNhhGDBXkEw2Miia6g7/s640/blogger-image--1321643846.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWSKXYesMZ4dnp6_nq87dqWcvTtIsXLRH93fiG3D-DjrxkWiF3p6EOgjDjNXOPem_DNT64QaajoepkNpe8Eq14d1x9c1gEfDYkuaq39Hk7widuqnhgI1lK6RaKoSNhhGDBXkEw2Miia6g7/s640/blogger-image--1321643846.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I can't eat my sub. I bite down on it, but my teeth don't go all the way through. I rip off a piece of the sandwhich with my teeth and try to chew it, but my jaw really hurts when I bite down. I'm confused at what could cause such a strange pain and I resign myself to tearing off small pieces of my sandwhich, chewing as best I can, and swallowing the giant chunks.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">After passing Kearsarge and getting back to the PCT, I see a note from Rocket in the sand. I'm so happy to be hiking with such wonderful and loving people! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3gAfJ9ufG0Fa3MpE7ViPRSg1YhyzVkQzCu1z2qD7pFUksm29yHlI0MTxXFFqX9xPx2RcxY5NNJ7CxRBOsLT49F_hN36KBp93xVsyk9hC7KkHl3XfQ0w8IaBgLPH5H1vdR61nK3VUrkAO_/s640/blogger-image--1350027753.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3gAfJ9ufG0Fa3MpE7ViPRSg1YhyzVkQzCu1z2qD7pFUksm29yHlI0MTxXFFqX9xPx2RcxY5NNJ7CxRBOsLT49F_hN36KBp93xVsyk9hC7KkHl3XfQ0w8IaBgLPH5H1vdR61nK3VUrkAO_/s640/blogger-image--1350027753.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Yes, they call me Glit. I've also gone by Captain Glit, Sprinkles, and a few other less appropriate names. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div>Anyway, I get to camp and find Rocket, Moxie, Princess, Mr Sandals, Fence, Sugar Pine, Lingo, and Arabia. I set up my new ground sheet (thank you Miles!) and cowboy camp under the stars. Estero, Acorn, and Choop hike in as the sun is setting and join our large camp. I'm happy.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhulwi_pJZMrrLrmPhyphenhyphen-ebUYWPwvMzebxa-wfOWbA_K1HIccqezhsh4y7q4CGDU4_Am80mSMwHRLIuURTnTvRfRruD66DSzy9MxNOFHvRUPeBVC5o2RJjKg5bHBVFsn79th2igeog_Xyap3/s640/blogger-image--927859941.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhulwi_pJZMrrLrmPhyphenhyphen-ebUYWPwvMzebxa-wfOWbA_K1HIccqezhsh4y7q4CGDU4_Am80mSMwHRLIuURTnTvRfRruD66DSzy9MxNOFHvRUPeBVC5o2RJjKg5bHBVFsn79th2igeog_Xyap3/s640/blogger-image--927859941.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Day 58</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Miles 790-804</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Glen Pass</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I was really cold last night, I should sleep in my tent tomorrow. I get up leisurely as the sun comes out and watch everyone scurrying around camp, cooking breakfast, and packing their things. It's a short climb to Glen Pass and we all take our time getting out of camp today. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We hike past a few frozen lakes on our way to the pass. In the picture below, the trail crosses the snowfield to the right of the lake. Can you see the little people behind me hiking towards the top?</div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmGDOivTTF9OmmQ54UxW8ib4K_qHlNWNfzQRLq5il4JhtRmJLKSIeV31OPEifad9SjoXfisW5dkM2nu4jI5BVAChqF_q92tT8y5DDfpAPOLreTKM2AnBcYID6ccHRqTw1JJNgM0bFWBNQz/s640/blogger-image--646845054.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmGDOivTTF9OmmQ54UxW8ib4K_qHlNWNfzQRLq5il4JhtRmJLKSIeV31OPEifad9SjoXfisW5dkM2nu4jI5BVAChqF_q92tT8y5DDfpAPOLreTKM2AnBcYID6ccHRqTw1JJNgM0bFWBNQz/s640/blogger-image--646845054.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I get to the top of Glen Pass right after Sugar Pine and Lingo. Yogi's guide says that this is the scariest pass and I immediately see why. I put on my microspikes and get my poles ready for the steep and icy descent.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6dJ2Idfd4vhveLl50Zgmn6q0m6b5WcyrkBCtwST_4rqSc4WXHmypf0W2hAzgOfDgHv8eibmMmVC4YcUoCYImzVU6qHX2RYFHKsv2XapWbyunZ2QrE4me0g9VTm1ycXfCasw3xzC6qVZU0/s640/blogger-image--2104313629.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6dJ2Idfd4vhveLl50Zgmn6q0m6b5WcyrkBCtwST_4rqSc4WXHmypf0W2hAzgOfDgHv8eibmMmVC4YcUoCYImzVU6qHX2RYFHKsv2XapWbyunZ2QrE4me0g9VTm1ycXfCasw3xzC6qVZU0/s640/blogger-image--2104313629.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The trail starts by crossing a long and icy snowfield before descending straight down over a mix of rocks and hard snow. It's steep and some people glissade down sections to avoid the dangerous climb down. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9Gl3a-ux3mCkX8jAM7XW6PMwpkhVrCsp5O7jQBN4TRXdsQo6Xkyts4zdt8XBQfcnYHoKRfBUB2mAnWUgebzwQUa8v87QF6fBwEc8roXpEQzxG0yaeMKNIxSXqOIv9-f8fSNm5B2M41aPx/s640/blogger-image-2061797920.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9Gl3a-ux3mCkX8jAM7XW6PMwpkhVrCsp5O7jQBN4TRXdsQo6Xkyts4zdt8XBQfcnYHoKRfBUB2mAnWUgebzwQUa8v87QF6fBwEc8roXpEQzxG0yaeMKNIxSXqOIv9-f8fSNm5B2M41aPx/s640/blogger-image-2061797920.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Here's a view of the descent from my spot, safe at the bottom. The pass is visible in the top center of the picture. We crossed to the left, then had to go straight down the mountain. In this picture, there are actually 7 or 8 people visible. Did I mention that it's REALLY steep? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1kcUSlHPnvgKNlvWjpE7uiVMtWRA9VMekMjqs8lZvjOS63nqaM-BaKuXgb7GRAol6vSycGp58o3kdcPl9Q4e-bZ0ZSCZYJ4WcaVa5g2-36eLjkIG7zWUpJS7eb3CRZ0JHkBn7jThxHzNQ/s640/blogger-image-1620698886.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1kcUSlHPnvgKNlvWjpE7uiVMtWRA9VMekMjqs8lZvjOS63nqaM-BaKuXgb7GRAol6vSycGp58o3kdcPl9Q4e-bZ0ZSCZYJ4WcaVa5g2-36eLjkIG7zWUpJS7eb3CRZ0JHkBn7jThxHzNQ/s640/blogger-image-1620698886.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Here's a close up of a few people crossing the first snowfield.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfwtahhlFEJO94WXKRKWYz8OWMvcIRoL75sTtCRMzBbiUEXnx55PcfAEuDu4ynciPMb2GMQ-A3q5GxouG5IKo8hNBMKl6l-4CTNUITjg7H7SNoCnMu2WG5a83uExZruf974ZKMfU6VIi79/s640/blogger-image--1545617085.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfwtahhlFEJO94WXKRKWYz8OWMvcIRoL75sTtCRMzBbiUEXnx55PcfAEuDu4ynciPMb2GMQ-A3q5GxouG5IKo8hNBMKl6l-4CTNUITjg7H7SNoCnMu2WG5a83uExZruf974ZKMfU6VIi79/s640/blogger-image--1545617085.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I glissaded three times, but only once I got close to the bottom. I sat on the ground and held my poles high in the air. The snow built up in my crotch as I slid down, and I felt like I was going out of control a few times, but glissading was pretty thrilling.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">After the snow, the descent continues for the rest if the afternoon, passing Upper and Lower Rae Lakes and miles of beautiful rivers.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBgciItDhCFR0YEAogFwr1QcaugI0qNaayqFf2TIh6-bQNBYqHJIluUlwYJIcxqyqBMygs5wtGWtNxcuhy5mdgY_GV2FqOi3pq5q9njfANgD7fETcMpAT7wnKRz85QTxNWgEXmY0lKrqcN/s640/blogger-image-1974039844.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBgciItDhCFR0YEAogFwr1QcaugI0qNaayqFf2TIh6-bQNBYqHJIluUlwYJIcxqyqBMygs5wtGWtNxcuhy5mdgY_GV2FqOi3pq5q9njfANgD7fETcMpAT7wnKRz85QTxNWgEXmY0lKrqcN/s640/blogger-image-1974039844.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The PCT and JMT are the same trail for a long time in this section, so we're still on the John Muir Trail.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAB3BBZKZ27gIFV2d8We5iJbjVZqyDTvhC64D8_M4cEKO2JOxRxTvW2ZZ6gX-d1Gq19Kbwmh1P9rC7czn09Q1UxHGZZG2_ryc3aVbnbwdn8IUxXACSTLvWuXbgV8tJsM_YqlPGmmrsBCYF/s640/blogger-image-1437770367.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAB3BBZKZ27gIFV2d8We5iJbjVZqyDTvhC64D8_M4cEKO2JOxRxTvW2ZZ6gX-d1Gq19Kbwmh1P9rC7czn09Q1UxHGZZG2_ryc3aVbnbwdn8IUxXACSTLvWuXbgV8tJsM_YqlPGmmrsBCYF/s640/blogger-image-1437770367.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">After descending 4,000 feet into a valley, we cross a wooden suspension bridge and start the 6 mile climb to our campsite. Eventually I get to camp and I'm completely exhausted. I think it's a mix of readjusting this level of exercise and readjusting to the altitude. I arrive at camp at 7:15pm with just enough time to set up my tent, eat, write my blog and go to sleep. Tomorrow we're going to try to cross two passes, Pinchot and Mather.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfTWbYBjDObqMQ_k_YXGtlrFy-87mhQOytL_nSSn5kd-t9pX_A-Q_xPKD3w8jtmkeP1y9aWLVzwmsPP_7DW8-yNhCRl9crxVfvzvof7b9wuleGYywvokPAW3SPqyhv0flg-1ADfVLachv6/s640/blogger-image--1818354582.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfTWbYBjDObqMQ_k_YXGtlrFy-87mhQOytL_nSSn5kd-t9pX_A-Q_xPKD3w8jtmkeP1y9aWLVzwmsPP_7DW8-yNhCRl9crxVfvzvof7b9wuleGYywvokPAW3SPqyhv0flg-1ADfVLachv6/s640/blogger-image--1818354582.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Day 59</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Miles 804-819</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Pinchot Pass and Mather Pass</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Princess said she would wake us up this morning by yodeling at 5:30am. A few minutes after 5:30 I hear her walk by my tent and say (rather than sing), "yodel, yodel, yodel." I sit up and slowly start going about my routine. I stretch for a minute or two in my sleeping bag, then I unscrew the valve on my sleeping pad. Once the air is out of my pad and I feel the cold, hard ground I start moving. Next I change into my clothes for the day and roll up my pad and sleeping bag. Then its outside so I can eat, finish packing, and go to the bathroom. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Today I'm the first person to be awake and ready this morning. What a change! I loiter while everyone else finishes packing and eat two pieces of energy bread from Schat's in Bishop. It's a dense wheat bread with walnuts and apricots and raisins. It looked perfect in the backery, but now it's gross. The bread is dry and tastes like cardboard. I follow it up with a meal replacement shake that I've had almost every morning since Campo. The Carnation Instant Breakfast shakes are surprisingly good. It's difficult to predict what you will and wont get sick of.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We start the morning with the final ascent of Pinchot. The trail is completely covered by snow and we use the GPS on our phones to make sure we're moving towards the right pass. We skate on top of the earky morning ice, crossing the occasional boulder field and stopping to breathe every few minutes. The pass isn't visible in this picture, this is the pass I thought was Pinchot before Mr Sandals pointed to my left. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOVvoMx1XSfKqEOQcYTy0_n2DREJrVaiAjUax-vlteUQheMjKE2HMAEIkDA_YkdoGH2lApZcv9X5zci9QnCx9WEIAp9EmpITNUe9swa4ei4P2CmEO2vh0Kus7FOyafg2bzsg-jny20buY4/s640/blogger-image-1547588828.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOVvoMx1XSfKqEOQcYTy0_n2DREJrVaiAjUax-vlteUQheMjKE2HMAEIkDA_YkdoGH2lApZcv9X5zci9QnCx9WEIAp9EmpITNUe9swa4ei4P2CmEO2vh0Kus7FOyafg2bzsg-jny20buY4/s640/blogger-image-1547588828.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We cross a saturated, frozen meadow and see the switchbacks covered 80% in snow. I take the lead and push up the switchbacks, walking in an earlier hiker's frozen footprints. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTygnL6KN1RD3A3G0o_vHuT5duFPzv2wBYKLyqTk92u7UVcLvQYMng5gdQ0UoRctYSy_flZuPodKhmw1_FgWDxQfFg2Gc1jYBQ-tNsDaZJTMzd4MH1ZU41Wg2m99lHrj_kYd9u4oMBZRiH/s640/blogger-image--482611181.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTygnL6KN1RD3A3G0o_vHuT5duFPzv2wBYKLyqTk92u7UVcLvQYMng5gdQ0UoRctYSy_flZuPodKhmw1_FgWDxQfFg2Gc1jYBQ-tNsDaZJTMzd4MH1ZU41Wg2m99lHrj_kYd9u4oMBZRiH/s640/blogger-image--482611181.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The top of Pinchot is melted and I can see both directions from the pass. I sit on a large, flat rock and eat a snack. Princess, Mr Sandals and Moxie make it it up but I'm freezing and decide to start the descent. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqMv3GaMnvJx6YdK4pY0kyeo3tJknb_vzu3U8U_BZ-97oHquwimHBgx9dcGWxpqZ66ybu-MA61Fh0wQ5fY-GMnHIPXuI9sfIXB9qBjXZgOxrC_gOfQkZoZEytHCaZCiiVlbtL21dTZK5LA/s640/blogger-image-465520411.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqMv3GaMnvJx6YdK4pY0kyeo3tJknb_vzu3U8U_BZ-97oHquwimHBgx9dcGWxpqZ66ybu-MA61Fh0wQ5fY-GMnHIPXuI9sfIXB9qBjXZgOxrC_gOfQkZoZEytHCaZCiiVlbtL21dTZK5LA/s640/blogger-image-465520411.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">On the way down Pinchot, which is<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> relatively easy, I see a ranger walking towards me. I say hello and she tells me that I'm going the wrong way. Snow covers the trail and I haven't been paying attention to which set of footprints I'm following. I thank her and change course, but she stops in front of me and obviously wants to chat more. I ask her about her job and what she does every day.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">This ranger</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> grocery shops for an entire season at once (May-September) and the forest service takes it all by mule to a remote cabin in the high country. She then spends 5 months hiking the local trails, away from the cabin for a week at a time. She checks permits and bear canisters, records who she sees (in case a hiker's relative calls Search and Rescue), and reports on the condition of the passes. Awesome! She looks to be about 25. It sounds like she doesn't make much money, but she gets to have friends visit her at the cabin during the season. Plus, as she says it, "rangers get paid in sunsets."</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">This ranger doesn't want to see our permits, but she takes our names and makes us knock on our bear canisters.</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">The trail is relatively flat for most of the day, a rarity in the Sierras. We cross river after river, a few having rocks to jump on, but most having nothing. I hike behind Fence, then Arabia, then fall behind everyone when I get distracted by a pretty view.</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFEQZG5Vlqw3uSDMA-xUyzjAvnbYf8f_Jvhkm0Ax5uNwjEVA9kKobvHu40gvwiuzXwszBDyKe9iZuKv74IUZoW2SVkLlkVA4juC2-9dzIWShhBsOeOSvBMQrHxWdNo4GNXrL9lX7OZilRA/s640/blogger-image--2002926497.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFEQZG5Vlqw3uSDMA-xUyzjAvnbYf8f_Jvhkm0Ax5uNwjEVA9kKobvHu40gvwiuzXwszBDyKe9iZuKv74IUZoW2SVkLlkVA4juC2-9dzIWShhBsOeOSvBMQrHxWdNo4GNXrL9lX7OZilRA/s640/blogger-image--2002926497.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> My feet freeze almost instantly when I step into the fresh snowmelt. When I get to the other side I have the urge to quickly tear off my socks and shoes, but I don't. I jump up and down and try to keep moving to warm up my numb toes.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv-xbJqimrWWxf-rHEqAqyWr4iY_qxBlE-Z65n_fImd94wzloChUjBsJxzt7xBa-U2_WsKIyUU1YgzJZvj5CJLT83q5JjLhLaiUdQQjHO0MSY6gqp40t5-iTfRH9lEMWc3eZf0WzhR9K9j/s640/blogger-image-689787184.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv-xbJqimrWWxf-rHEqAqyWr4iY_qxBlE-Z65n_fImd94wzloChUjBsJxzt7xBa-U2_WsKIyUU1YgzJZvj5CJLT83q5JjLhLaiUdQQjHO0MSY6gqp40t5-iTfRH9lEMWc3eZf0WzhR9K9j/s640/blogger-image-689787184.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We follow the river up winding valleys, slowly climbing before the short and steep ascent up Mather Pass. I chat with Acorn on the way; she started the PCT right after finishing the Florida Trail in March.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Today is Rocket's birthday, but I haven't seen her for a while. She fell behind this morning, so I start telling every hiker I see going in the opposite direction to wish her a happy birthday.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTND7KMHIY5UXP-515ZrUGXIIlHklLKfAzcqYrHP-Ui4bPGTHSXqbGx6bBOK6bivZWwhrGQMkRbCJdcVWfAj735Fzjs8R2UKCQjiAemNFPWq9IGaw9DD-qYOAcG9M7nCx7NkMtcVFIObDV/s640/blogger-image-1766453296.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTND7KMHIY5UXP-515ZrUGXIIlHklLKfAzcqYrHP-Ui4bPGTHSXqbGx6bBOK6bivZWwhrGQMkRbCJdcVWfAj735Fzjs8R2UKCQjiAemNFPWq9IGaw9DD-qYOAcG9M7nCx7NkMtcVFIObDV/s640/blogger-image-1766453296.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I pass everyone while they're on a break and I listen to a KEXP music podcast while I cross the long snow fields before Mather Pass. I look up and see these incredible switchbacks carved into the rocky mountain.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUtahaJhToVwuv24LYofxv2qMuZ8OFvolfWT_IEcaiQxSPgW7icEY9toTyQG42KtqAwiG8TMbapcVcuHGyjIesplC9-8eyXLy85XHWl6DkyG9irxg2PW9GFE7gGs7rqb2J2URPQceKZ1Fl/s640/blogger-image-1108648167.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUtahaJhToVwuv24LYofxv2qMuZ8OFvolfWT_IEcaiQxSPgW7icEY9toTyQG42KtqAwiG8TMbapcVcuHGyjIesplC9-8eyXLy85XHWl6DkyG9irxg2PW9GFE7gGs7rqb2J2URPQceKZ1Fl/s640/blogger-image-1108648167.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Fence passes me and we talk for a bit about his life. He's a paramedic and lives in Vancouver, BC. He races up the switchbacks past me and I look down to see everyone below me. I smile as I look at all of these people I'm hiking with today.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiotuwysenJYWkhx1grbnQFuNWesja7j4VAmLwvsgQC0Qbe1JO9ZYBrKXjIwTRzCDg9myDTCSBU0atP9vDwbSxY4vRZExFHA6dHQ10NGjshL57mv0VMZdlI5xEOq0tkCEDBzySSR058WFWY/s640/blogger-image--1181654135.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiotuwysenJYWkhx1grbnQFuNWesja7j4VAmLwvsgQC0Qbe1JO9ZYBrKXjIwTRzCDg9myDTCSBU0atP9vDwbSxY4vRZExFHA6dHQ10NGjshL57mv0VMZdlI5xEOq0tkCEDBzySSR058WFWY/s640/blogger-image--1181654135.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I get to the top of Mather Pass and meet Barbie and Butters. Barbie gives me a big chunk of cheese and I sit for a few minutes looking at the new valley we are to traverse. Everyone arrives and is antsy to keep going, wanting to get down into the valley below. Sugar Pine takes this sweet picture for me before we start the long descent.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJWLi3STjFMts0j-dUfRQnGv0DFurfivYNfmuEHyD4ZbBIA6DIU_R3B5i4Cmmxa_1XKXNclOmkrqDUrjtJd3QGOkeSUdOPmYLYLWjrzd65UWIHXT20ZuOqPKXQIAcDQTzWf7Qc8ZXBdqgs/s640/blogger-image--2008294187.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJWLi3STjFMts0j-dUfRQnGv0DFurfivYNfmuEHyD4ZbBIA6DIU_R3B5i4Cmmxa_1XKXNclOmkrqDUrjtJd3QGOkeSUdOPmYLYLWjrzd65UWIHXT20ZuOqPKXQIAcDQTzWf7Qc8ZXBdqgs/s640/blogger-image--2008294187.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The descent off Mather is steep and icy, but not as high as Glen. We carefully walked from one rock outcrop to the next and glissade on our butts when we can.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdmJleQfzGbCTXTSR8n58Mbqj0X7eDoAe_ccl5sGKX0ocGjuy3m-LNMiYNk3MVbuT5VHdfHI_wzjCW5sfY_whg_DmGFc4YwFYMDRaMQRxz5j-B54Y737MpXx7QegDwntHTzm8UIy_WNrVJ/s640/blogger-image--2091537189.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdmJleQfzGbCTXTSR8n58Mbqj0X7eDoAe_ccl5sGKX0ocGjuy3m-LNMiYNk3MVbuT5VHdfHI_wzjCW5sfY_whg_DmGFc4YwFYMDRaMQRxz5j-B54Y737MpXx7QegDwntHTzm8UIy_WNrVJ/s640/blogger-image--2091537189.jpg"></a></div><br></div>We get halfway down into the valley, into the trees you can see to the right of the lake in the picture above. I am in the back of the group and find Princess and Mr Sandals setting up camp. Everyone continues a few more miles except for Moxie and I. The four of us set up our tents, eat dinner, and go to bed by 8 for the long day ahead. I'm excited to get some sleep.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Day 60</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Miles 819-835</div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">"Yodel yodel yodel!" I wake up to Proncess's yodel and my head is pounding. It's 6am and I've overslept. We're not crossing any passes today, so I turn over and close my eyes again<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">. </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">It's 16 miles to the base of Muir Pass and we can't cross that pass in the afternoon. I hear Princess, Mr Sandals and Moxie leaving camp. They say that they'll see me at the base of Muir. I go back to sleep.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I'm out of bed once I let the air out of my sleeping pad. I pack my things and I'm on the trail by 8. The trail gently descends along the shore of a giant, clear lake and I see six or seven hikers fishing for trout.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7KdEdfpqzqpnljs4zw2xPJDPXKaq-GAypEP5ZVv7HhkN0LHNNODpCtNzjF61qzwMPsED6HtTomGqZwaZLRaDDuK6iT4l_Dc-N9GoEzSIewNyMfX0Ho-8E142mbtPOcR_r0OavFJ78ylaS/s640/blogger-image--1783026429.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7KdEdfpqzqpnljs4zw2xPJDPXKaq-GAypEP5ZVv7HhkN0LHNNODpCtNzjF61qzwMPsED6HtTomGqZwaZLRaDDuK6iT4l_Dc-N9GoEzSIewNyMfX0Ho-8E142mbtPOcR_r0OavFJ78ylaS/s640/blogger-image--1783026429.jpg"></a></div></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">After the lake, the trail begins a long descent into the valley below. I take a few minutes to sit on a rock above the valley and relax.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOz_2qs4dNTLYXcevuKuNHGEnvEMUB7gpMJcll62HesSO1LW9qi74NyD1DWl5GQnj8wYmTHb6_5AffChsnKeSmYMEogJUjUk6uFQuRcKaThvIc7yKvwBGW_pkjBehh4ZQBnAPRzazdHX6v/s640/blogger-image-415237799.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOz_2qs4dNTLYXcevuKuNHGEnvEMUB7gpMJcll62HesSO1LW9qi74NyD1DWl5GQnj8wYmTHb6_5AffChsnKeSmYMEogJUjUk6uFQuRcKaThvIc7yKvwBGW_pkjBehh4ZQBnAPRzazdHX6v/s640/blogger-image-415237799.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Two thousand five hundred feet below, the valley feels balmy compared to the crisp air at the lake.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I stop for lunch on the shore of a river. I feel sticky so I peel off my clothes and jump in the freezing snowmelt. I rinse my extra clothes and fill my water bottles.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLXqmz7JOybqY7PRql1PngjyPUQzT9LyU8L2gP4ohDsCmUQutNTLMwpCE-PuUhsPRkvZphRyle_9ouykxtcQxIkvGxWJqHPefUrdZlCspWnNQt1LI6steZ3kBhw0dVnlmszHYSY4KrKkkO/s640/blogger-image--2062463744.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLXqmz7JOybqY7PRql1PngjyPUQzT9LyU8L2gP4ohDsCmUQutNTLMwpCE-PuUhsPRkvZphRyle_9ouykxtcQxIkvGxWJqHPefUrdZlCspWnNQt1LI6steZ3kBhw0dVnlmszHYSY4KrKkkO/s640/blogger-image--2062463744.jpg"></a></div><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Sometimes I get homesick and sentimental while I'm hiking alone. Today I take my time, resting when my body asks for it and not pressuring myself to hike quickly. The valley feels long as it continues to wind down in elevation. The ground is saturated with snowmelt and there are bugs everywhere. I have a tough time with Mosquitos, but today their presence makes the valley feel more alive.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQjWkFfIEOOyZFTUO9aJvy9pIKlb8YMlpRFFXoVQXf19tIs4mOxjXbl8PZHm5SGLMv_9Cb0ekRwHEEl3YF5uaX4oDRJvdblTIJ5XaRoV_ji_Apa3O_F0f6oNX8QFwxGXd44WAtapp7PxAv/s640/blogger-image--800526716.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQjWkFfIEOOyZFTUO9aJvy9pIKlb8YMlpRFFXoVQXf19tIs4mOxjXbl8PZHm5SGLMv_9Cb0ekRwHEEl3YF5uaX4oDRJvdblTIJ5XaRoV_ji_Apa3O_F0f6oNX8QFwxGXd44WAtapp7PxAv/s640/blogger-image--800526716.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Another break then up up up, the trail starts it's 3,000 foot climb to Muir Pass.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOwczYfTwVHVAtU_3jSvQ5UvLu5uwVIx9pbV47avqTbld1fWrGUfuS3b5_ugIsh3w64FwL9_yklg9nunvI02XaAq2oFBEm10v92LejV9_R11YOe9bUPQxKuAU5CRFMPXtNdRb49yib2hcq/s640/blogger-image--1433088732.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOwczYfTwVHVAtU_3jSvQ5UvLu5uwVIx9pbV47avqTbld1fWrGUfuS3b5_ugIsh3w64FwL9_yklg9nunvI02XaAq2oFBEm10v92LejV9_R11YOe9bUPQxKuAU5CRFMPXtNdRb49yib2hcq/s640/blogger-image--1433088732.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Almost to our proposed campsite for the night I take another break. I've really enjoyed hiking alone today.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmaGyjH62qEwvyl-umhMfCY6VzU-aPoZzHEHud0e0k42uz_yoyEl8hL4zyw338WalgOaFO6mxEzLz705xVk26TERN7wJlqlS_OiqP822rxlVYGjId4rDK4Zsb9kdL3F3jAWAjRdByQXSCA/s640/blogger-image-331948682.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmaGyjH62qEwvyl-umhMfCY6VzU-aPoZzHEHud0e0k42uz_yoyEl8hL4zyw338WalgOaFO6mxEzLz705xVk26TERN7wJlqlS_OiqP822rxlVYGjId4rDK4Zsb9kdL3F3jAWAjRdByQXSCA/s640/blogger-image-331948682.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi11KADShRWg_xlZlNRQmB5BY_YGQw4ubLnD22zX7yAUZJBN7ycjFGRDNL52oWMTq73Yvk2Wq_O4tmzJTOmHtHRo75U5dneDMpgwKsrR2cxsdNO2DRFLwlnJj_3Gow1fVKTsw0LB8MZLzXX/s640/blogger-image-294617883.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi11KADShRWg_xlZlNRQmB5BY_YGQw4ubLnD22zX7yAUZJBN7ycjFGRDNL52oWMTq73Yvk2Wq_O4tmzJTOmHtHRo75U5dneDMpgwKsrR2cxsdNO2DRFLwlnJj_3Gow1fVKTsw0LB8MZLzXX/s640/blogger-image-294617883.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrnwLlIZMmzhnve232cLXmcfwulwfBRa8RS84SZ3xXR4MMC96J6VsXa0LDV2cRWWa3tHheKPffS6dNKOUU5hgz159Z713RIIYIKkfBnV4j3KaziGM6DGn8yyndi-Ri63jI1W9g-T3ZeLkT/s640/blogger-image--931380517.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrnwLlIZMmzhnve232cLXmcfwulwfBRa8RS84SZ3xXR4MMC96J6VsXa0LDV2cRWWa3tHheKPffS6dNKOUU5hgz159Z713RIIYIKkfBnV4j3KaziGM6DGn8yyndi-Ri63jI1W9g-T3ZeLkT/s640/blogger-image--931380517.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I crest another meadow and find a large campsite. A bunch of other hikers have their tents set up and are sitting around their bear canisters, talking, cooking dinner, and trading snacks. I join them for a while, then crawl into my tent and take two Benedryl. I didn't sleep very well last night and I consumed a lot of caffeine this afternoon. Tonight I need sleep.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Day 61</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Miles 835-855</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I wake up to yodeling again today, but this time I'm better rested and I giggle at Princess's attempt at an American accent. I stay in my sleeping bag for 30 more minutes, waking occasionally and telling myself I should get up. When I do get out of my tent I see Moxie, Princess, and Mr Sandals eating breakfast and getting their things together.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We start the morning by climbing the last 1,500 feet or so to Muir Pass. The snow starts almost immediately, about 2 miles from the summit. We take slow, calculated steps in the snow around lakes and streams. I posthole up to my ankle or my calf every tenth step, falling past the icy crust into the wet snow below. I try to avoid the snow as much as possible by walking from one rock field to another. This gives me a goal for each little section and a place to pull the snow out of my shoe or adjust my backpack, but it also takes me on a very indirect path to the pass.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzWzotA13xZx8jgSpCopyVTIedUC4RwCut2V-vudtT9fGIYn_qHspVuuUHQBXHIFczHPi3j0_e5lwrImQWWUxf6cCAzlv0D3IfLlgzKR0bZlXfywXIMFA2UJsbQI3pCWFYJARWO9TvG6jQ/s640/blogger-image-2093983303.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzWzotA13xZx8jgSpCopyVTIedUC4RwCut2V-vudtT9fGIYn_qHspVuuUHQBXHIFczHPi3j0_e5lwrImQWWUxf6cCAzlv0D3IfLlgzKR0bZlXfywXIMFA2UJsbQI3pCWFYJARWO9TvG6jQ/s640/blogger-image-2093983303.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I follow the wrong set of footprints and find myself ascending to the pass in a different way than the other hikers. I keep climbing until I look up and see my first view of the Muir hut on Muir pass. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCqggviSYEw8k8TiYvIiUurZgMkBwgSY9_FdqDtO4AARhipxZ3V0CPa59z9etelcWjkv6HivzN-5LklOIO2r29BqDgKzNCnl1B1V8tGXKwcttARiSetBxR8s0uZoRdoNpMAHHyrSKEb53B/s640/blogger-image--542640850.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCqggviSYEw8k8TiYvIiUurZgMkBwgSY9_FdqDtO4AARhipxZ3V0CPa59z9etelcWjkv6HivzN-5LklOIO2r29BqDgKzNCnl1B1V8tGXKwcttARiSetBxR8s0uZoRdoNpMAHHyrSKEb53B/s640/blogger-image--542640850.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I reach the hut and drop my pack. I'm glad the climb is over and that I've reached another milestone on the PCT. I sit inside the hut and eat a snack with Choop and a few new hikers that I've met during the past week: Joker, Cracker Keeper, Barbie, and Midway. Princess, Mr Sandals, and Moxie show up a few minutes later. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsvEY3rKx6BxCZFVeIpiWfWIAPx8P6VPk4ZInLo5JiAcJ8ZQOQVAxZnNJ-uY9-y0uxLtuQOjpKX95Pv9q1uJjpkrEhd_c0jS4fK7bEiMbtj7p6UfaLbssROpk7a0NT89ak85U3Jkk9Xw-X/s640/blogger-image-1958121376.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsvEY3rKx6BxCZFVeIpiWfWIAPx8P6VPk4ZInLo5JiAcJ8ZQOQVAxZnNJ-uY9-y0uxLtuQOjpKX95Pv9q1uJjpkrEhd_c0jS4fK7bEiMbtj7p6UfaLbssROpk7a0NT89ak85U3Jkk9Xw-X/s640/blogger-image-1958121376.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">After the pass the trail descends past valleys of frozen lakes. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc4rd-qeKGHTN-Hqc8Yqv2oS3bEE7kaBud2fQs7S3Ly5A9PEAfVNFVr0XZHiQNJTeakhxB2jISCxIO_wEbIczqNClkcK3OgIs2ZO24PGyivTbNYFHT-tPY8Ot4KLIQGsymZia_OKwMjQqE/s640/blogger-image--527299875.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc4rd-qeKGHTN-Hqc8Yqv2oS3bEE7kaBud2fQs7S3Ly5A9PEAfVNFVr0XZHiQNJTeakhxB2jISCxIO_wEbIczqNClkcK3OgIs2ZO24PGyivTbNYFHT-tPY8Ot4KLIQGsymZia_OKwMjQqE/s640/blogger-image--527299875.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Once we finish a few more miles of postholing through streams and rock fields, we are exhausted and take a long break by a melted lake. I set out my things on the warm rocks and count my remaining food. Can I make it 4 days? Will I be forced to eat the dreaded energy loaf from Schat's?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I get up and start the rest of the descent into the next valley.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU55SgBJ0lhHIPl9zaVZ1VxGWKli4ZkylHtu5B9pMfMyDr8fHSN4QIwD1c0O3Z-Kx9oYp1oT9npzS0Mm8SyDSoDePWFlChU6YH_LC5Grq0zeMUvljPhJ4U75tU-cbFOhiV0FT4aWWrEhcu/s640/blogger-image--195122926.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU55SgBJ0lhHIPl9zaVZ1VxGWKli4ZkylHtu5B9pMfMyDr8fHSN4QIwD1c0O3Z-Kx9oYp1oT9npzS0Mm8SyDSoDePWFlChU6YH_LC5Grq0zeMUvljPhJ4U75tU-cbFOhiV0FT4aWWrEhcu/s640/blogger-image--195122926.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The trail switchbacks down the side of the mountain and meanders through a few more open meadows before reaching the Evolution Creek crossing. The guidebooks and that this crossing is dangerous and sometimes requires you to ford fast, chest deep water. We cross upriver and the water is calm and only calf deep.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKhTzmXJNUgm0Y4AdAF9azXxzRV6zGisQFso_z2F0RVylraP5AkEFukMMgz_YWIivqIRBQGdEV6bbzROhKEVYlHCfM_LdrWZIWyV_4SSVj1yJuUf7-XllWGzh_NSfj1btbfjnaTgJ3BS39/s640/blogger-image--1017245480.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKhTzmXJNUgm0Y4AdAF9azXxzRV6zGisQFso_z2F0RVylraP5AkEFukMMgz_YWIivqIRBQGdEV6bbzROhKEVYlHCfM_LdrWZIWyV_4SSVj1yJuUf7-XllWGzh_NSfj1btbfjnaTgJ3BS39/s640/blogger-image--1017245480.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">After the river we just have a few miles to hike until we reach our distance goal of 20 miles for today. The trail follows a huge river through the forest and down the mountain.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Today my jaw feels better. I can clench my teeth and bite down comfortably for the first time in days. Maybe it was stress related? Maybe I was grinding my teeth at night?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv6f_2dxoFQV7C8UB44QOczL54ADcw3ymGiu4LztU7dD-ByLW9fR86T-tAuzo8uCyAHo9UXtGPwkp25LOPWBLmk2XJmAlFPgiguoiUVEEyyNIu88ZklaNU5frozNZdqzoVU6B7Ujcj9sBe/s640/blogger-image--1771846490.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv6f_2dxoFQV7C8UB44QOczL54ADcw3ymGiu4LztU7dD-ByLW9fR86T-tAuzo8uCyAHo9UXtGPwkp25LOPWBLmk2XJmAlFPgiguoiUVEEyyNIu88ZklaNU5frozNZdqzoVU6B7Ujcj9sBe/s640/blogger-image--1771846490.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVI367o8-9nk5NNI979HpeRp3Rzlp0LCh-Z4BmcAExSd2skav0dhr3s9WalkzvJsQmBwVXAkQD268H4WCIPfVzaoQGSFqGIabxJMnmG8rxKioPyYlxfAWmtqX7GxhzOlTCfLgWY7TC1Yhk/s640/blogger-image-1229186610.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVI367o8-9nk5NNI979HpeRp3Rzlp0LCh-Z4BmcAExSd2skav0dhr3s9WalkzvJsQmBwVXAkQD268H4WCIPfVzaoQGSFqGIabxJMnmG8rxKioPyYlxfAWmtqX7GxhzOlTCfLgWY7TC1Yhk/s640/blogger-image-1229186610.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Princess, Mr Sandals, Moxie and I find a great camp site right off the trail. I set up my tent and lite a fire while everyone else goes about their evening routine. I don't normally light fires because they're so much work to put out, but tonight I light a one quickly and sit down to cook my dinner. The others join me and we talk about the next pass and how we need to do about 20 miles tomorrow and the next day to make it into Mammoth at a reasonable time with enough food.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidJ5M-hIC2dgXviPApqiSbn2rNSQa-EWnxezu_5NshIVmAiOklHAI1OIAgkhhceRJvT8H-MiNqbZQXsFThxIcKZBq4yWdrYgBWS77Lpu2_vjeBlIAGL46g6m-u8hyYkwut1wDcoxDAP0Xh/s640/blogger-image-1778073305.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidJ5M-hIC2dgXviPApqiSbn2rNSQa-EWnxezu_5NshIVmAiOklHAI1OIAgkhhceRJvT8H-MiNqbZQXsFThxIcKZBq4yWdrYgBWS77Lpu2_vjeBlIAGL46g6m-u8hyYkwut1wDcoxDAP0Xh/s640/blogger-image-1778073305.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Day 62</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Miles 855-878</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We start the day with a 3,000 foot climb to Selden Pass. This pass is one of the smaller passes on the PCT/JMT at only 10,910 feet. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGPpcnlhmiqgdZ854802BEYxpb5PFJCtUjZK9WCWhJGqpTa61OTl48ks1O2oziNQoU9bNE9Iro2pX8OOdrbwZ0uh3VCEvzE1w9JXRh8g07njYA4ICaGyAIyul42My5BLlukuKkdzhY1-M2/s640/blogger-image-1187081298.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGPpcnlhmiqgdZ854802BEYxpb5PFJCtUjZK9WCWhJGqpTa61OTl48ks1O2oziNQoU9bNE9Iro2pX8OOdrbwZ0uh3VCEvzE1w9JXRh8g07njYA4ICaGyAIyul42My5BLlukuKkdzhY1-M2/s640/blogger-image-1187081298.jpg"></a></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The climb to the pass is long and all I can think about is pizza and nachos. Packing 8 days of food is difficult, especially when you're a hungry PCT hiker. I know that I have enough food to get me through one and a half more days of hiking, but I still feel like I'm starving. I count and recount my food at every meal. How many snacks do I get today? What if I get hungry and want more than my ration? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Hiking while hungry is difficult and today is the first time I have to stop when the hunger gets really bad. I have to eat 250 calories every hour or I start to feel nauseous. I've never felt this type if hunger before, but I can't eat more than my ration.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Even with the hunger I feel good today. I feel strong and the miles fly by. As we get closer to the top, there are a few lakes and false passes before we reach Seldon.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFjuNPuk7A6U3E_PNI_43VCAu9yGQg8HU4MCWUc7WhFM5RhvmnfzHJLXF15kchB0jZBk9IIa7qIkL_OBgH2nDtOqMrapLCW7RfmWMVe-5MPa_eAWABeoXMKsWHJ9ChOI1jPTmEGPUOcD86/s640/blogger-image-369963167.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFjuNPuk7A6U3E_PNI_43VCAu9yGQg8HU4MCWUc7WhFM5RhvmnfzHJLXF15kchB0jZBk9IIa7qIkL_OBgH2nDtOqMrapLCW7RfmWMVe-5MPa_eAWABeoXMKsWHJ9ChOI1jPTmEGPUOcD86/s640/blogger-image-369963167.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The lakes and streams we crossed are packed with huge trout. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXp9lzIqXrJhi3eMak_PINhnnvtp3-0s3Hsi2mBFB2HxfdacLWrPTHA3AtSjeZVDe3FGN-MCWcgK6w1MMT1mJyOApCoYKGg7X-NbhQue5vC7n-2w4M6fppSD2yBbA_CMQ-cNO6y_vKRfft/s640/blogger-image--1908931195.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXp9lzIqXrJhi3eMak_PINhnnvtp3-0s3Hsi2mBFB2HxfdacLWrPTHA3AtSjeZVDe3FGN-MCWcgK6w1MMT1mJyOApCoYKGg7X-NbhQue5vC7n-2w4M6fppSD2yBbA_CMQ-cNO6y_vKRfft/s640/blogger-image--1908931195.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Looking back on where we've come.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtXylHxv5R9Eb9ipmVlyxzxdB_3mvZcRs3mFd8PbpYmUUuw2oB6z-y7btBYarejDLXcvflJUOaMsEuHGntHe-NFZVA0sz0v16yqyLMIoh62ogJa5PQiD6zPwqLWi1-pCoYpkMSS64fRKje/s640/blogger-image--997256787.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtXylHxv5R9Eb9ipmVlyxzxdB_3mvZcRs3mFd8PbpYmUUuw2oB6z-y7btBYarejDLXcvflJUOaMsEuHGntHe-NFZVA0sz0v16yqyLMIoh62ogJa5PQiD6zPwqLWi1-pCoYpkMSS64fRKje/s640/blogger-image--997256787.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">After Selden pass, the trail drops gradually into the next valley.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnQnde1kq9x35oMN7MV08JUoRD5c1bSCRoCzwnepibZS908VvyoJCekC_o816N2vzjWUR45L6jmweJWB9NEfqjjWU3g9xbndxLuqpPHm42ali2yK1gj5IW6ZEWIaphQJjn9LE9kXrCd15T/s640/blogger-image--1573378749.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnQnde1kq9x35oMN7MV08JUoRD5c1bSCRoCzwnepibZS908VvyoJCekC_o816N2vzjWUR45L6jmweJWB9NEfqjjWU3g9xbndxLuqpPHm42ali2yK1gj5IW6ZEWIaphQJjn9LE9kXrCd15T/s640/blogger-image--1573378749.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We cross another "dangerous" creek today, three different times, and the water is a little above my knees. I guess this is a benefit of hiking in such a low snow year. The weather outside is hot and, once you're used to having wet feet, the fords are more of a treat than a trial.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSNrXpZF8CZs0OkU6Wfa0mICGLjRqENea0_4Nl80ojvcl46crPnFCWUJMLnHH0mn8kZVGeOyUCqKUXQKfzzX2M_0OosGe5r3NCxzjZsQUMy6HuXbn9viwnPasqVJ9BtenHW5xpLOF-eofJ/s640/blogger-image-724692316.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSNrXpZF8CZs0OkU6Wfa0mICGLjRqENea0_4Nl80ojvcl46crPnFCWUJMLnHH0mn8kZVGeOyUCqKUXQKfzzX2M_0OosGe5r3NCxzjZsQUMy6HuXbn9viwnPasqVJ9BtenHW5xpLOF-eofJ/s640/blogger-image-724692316.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Another long steep climb, than an even more steep drop into the valley below.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJDHsK-9eSP08ITTXxuXFX3mQfgZigNrwKVv1fkrwHD5qAr67GHktA1rUUo9nZdB5WUX-MQsQEqytI63F-tvq6UMGS6WXR1wk25VzYzhnZPV-NioKn2mkh6zGZMHWPsafuubxNHCHJO0gr/s640/blogger-image-1656180474.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJDHsK-9eSP08ITTXxuXFX3mQfgZigNrwKVv1fkrwHD5qAr67GHktA1rUUo9nZdB5WUX-MQsQEqytI63F-tvq6UMGS6WXR1wk25VzYzhnZPV-NioKn2mkh6zGZMHWPsafuubxNHCHJO0gr/s640/blogger-image-1656180474.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We drop to 7,837 feet, the lowest we've camped in weeks. We stop before a huge steel bridge and set up our tents. A bunch of other hikers join the four of us and we all sit in a circle and cook our dinners. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4j4JhWYI07khv1-_5sI5uatlKMl6UkToReFJPcVe6hiQo00L9eyj2zqptPSIOGjvURByZE2PfWpAE-dY0scZ_LjtPvYRYF2amW85tx0I24jtqCT1CBBLMLUxVGGvCL8b-ICC6QedPGLwv/s640/blogger-image-863279777.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4j4JhWYI07khv1-_5sI5uatlKMl6UkToReFJPcVe6hiQo00L9eyj2zqptPSIOGjvURByZE2PfWpAE-dY0scZ_LjtPvYRYF2amW85tx0I24jtqCT1CBBLMLUxVGGvCL8b-ICC6QedPGLwv/s640/blogger-image-863279777.jpg"></a></div></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Each person says what they're having for dinner and everyone else listens intently. We eye each others meals to make our next resupply choices better. I'm buying cream cheese and more chips.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Everyone continues talking, but I need rest. I set up my tent without the rain fly; It's a warm night and I like feeling the breeze. I crawl into my sleeping bag and go to sleep.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Day 63</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Miles 878-903</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Another pass today, we start with a huge climb to Silver Pass. This climb takes about 10 miles.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKky_kpkLJtvZwYZ93hySkvQAOZl5kIAm6YtQI6CNKh5vHayw6FFHeWB86VpVx_FmOcilKf_7_Ra0gtE_VFjTvPuvjGCkDUlyudeMPZX1nUb_FRw1aWeZh2KvPyoeb_Opfwj5F7gTzq6Ne/s640/blogger-image-709559654.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKky_kpkLJtvZwYZ93hySkvQAOZl5kIAm6YtQI6CNKh5vHayw6FFHeWB86VpVx_FmOcilKf_7_Ra0gtE_VFjTvPuvjGCkDUlyudeMPZX1nUb_FRw1aWeZh2KvPyoeb_Opfwj5F7gTzq6Ne/s640/blogger-image-709559654.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtNYunR4M8gYPLrMsfCxXWPwpv4DheLV4f0wfDxseTz96K7NNyhUFonAzY9EEWhh366Rq4ztpzLPJxoQf-wNURP-DXZ21p9Wt2MTzSgOVys69pBbVi9AhIuAba4eyw0X4vi0YpDyZ03T2p/s640/blogger-image-111639948.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtNYunR4M8gYPLrMsfCxXWPwpv4DheLV4f0wfDxseTz96K7NNyhUFonAzY9EEWhh366Rq4ztpzLPJxoQf-wNURP-DXZ21p9Wt2MTzSgOVys69pBbVi9AhIuAba4eyw0X4vi0YpDyZ03T2p/s640/blogger-image-111639948.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I reach the pass after Joker and Cracker Keeper and I sit on a rock and look at the trail in front of us. I'm glad the big climb is over, but I know that we still have more climbing today after a short descent.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjaE2jFYYgJh2tyWTSOJruzqJ7BgwRhE38xE0Hm9Bd_g46K_jgKHJ8i_dmDK5ka3VP55MgqabzVwU0xovNR7VrF9Jsojl_s-hAdJUArSiXw5T6k96f1g28sz4kwKuL2abYHh_Al1Qgalqv/s640/blogger-image--131708891.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjaE2jFYYgJh2tyWTSOJruzqJ7BgwRhE38xE0Hm9Bd_g46K_jgKHJ8i_dmDK5ka3VP55MgqabzVwU0xovNR7VrF9Jsojl_s-hAdJUArSiXw5T6k96f1g28sz4kwKuL2abYHh_Al1Qgalqv/s640/blogger-image--131708891.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">More hikers arrive and we hang out on the pass for a while. I descend with Moxie, Princess, and Mr Sandals behind the other hikers. Today I can feel everyone's hunger around me. People seem irritable and the Mosquitos swarm as we try to stop for lunch.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I eat a piece of cheese, a handful of crumbled energy bread, a candy bar, and a hot sauce packet (I'm so hungry) before I see a JMT hiker walking towards us. Princess looks up at her and says, "hello, do you have any extra food?"</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The hiker smiles and replies to Princess in German. She tells us that she accidentally packed four days of food for a two day section and she would love to lighten her pack. She gives us dinners, candy bars, and a giant summer sausage. The hiker's name is Alice and she has always wanted to hike the JMT. She is super friendly and takes a group selfie with us before hiking on in the opposite direction as us. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjurALrOHsrKPziiaey6XzzTU0-HrD61aihGq9kCQi_sBnCMYxCw0HpCQvPUuxqvk_NH_wwojeeX6ls7YT6_MmtD9M0GRYidS-rrQsLNOYe60yjFZ05o7_XcMNUDHsufLkisBPiAJIelf92/s640/blogger-image-1822323925.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjurALrOHsrKPziiaey6XzzTU0-HrD61aihGq9kCQi_sBnCMYxCw0HpCQvPUuxqvk_NH_wwojeeX6ls7YT6_MmtD9M0GRYidS-rrQsLNOYe60yjFZ05o7_XcMNUDHsufLkisBPiAJIelf92/s640/blogger-image-1822323925.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">With renewed energy from the extra food, we continue hiking. We pass lake after lake, all huge and cold and sparkling in the sun.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbrFLMBnMGHeytEYm8qyOu7YGoD7LBsd87KmWbdm1fZYfcjaauOWB8VRG4zVvYofWYO8ynqZzxE_LI1QZm5zquKCzSqq3AOVAeJ35u_WiSBIa-o-ycA6d09k7Z9sGvlowD1rOD5GJrlErR/s640/blogger-image-1709674600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbrFLMBnMGHeytEYm8qyOu7YGoD7LBsd87KmWbdm1fZYfcjaauOWB8VRG4zVvYofWYO8ynqZzxE_LI1QZm5zquKCzSqq3AOVAeJ35u_WiSBIa-o-ycA6d09k7Z9sGvlowD1rOD5GJrlErR/s640/blogger-image-1709674600.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Today is the last big day of this long stretch in the wilderness and has the best views yet.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgas9YbmNG1-Kz6ux6C1G05kQ3UO_Y2sRM5riZt4BIlZhl016SKZbaGHy5RSXLpa6sFErdB_rZb_MnZJfL9577CKQtRu_QxV4b2OZd4lKnmMyYPeSWllA5vixY45R0TlzO83p3pSEzr3znN/s640/blogger-image--1165365269.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgas9YbmNG1-Kz6ux6C1G05kQ3UO_Y2sRM5riZt4BIlZhl016SKZbaGHy5RSXLpa6sFErdB_rZb_MnZJfL9577CKQtRu_QxV4b2OZd4lKnmMyYPeSWllA5vixY45R0TlzO83p3pSEzr3znN/s640/blogger-image--1165365269.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Mile 900... bitches!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBGx2My8yamcS3z0PiEBKfnQBNus4e0rTpMac-WaI3d2aBCOHjgFFqLrImzsEpfuwpR1z_g2q34-FgFBPFwHSyw8qEL_Xj6EVYEMJtPYsCdQzyTinRvFmA7RpN5BoDxkVg2GGIg2gou_vy/s640/blogger-image--1276298279.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBGx2My8yamcS3z0PiEBKfnQBNus4e0rTpMac-WaI3d2aBCOHjgFFqLrImzsEpfuwpR1z_g2q34-FgFBPFwHSyw8qEL_Xj6EVYEMJtPYsCdQzyTinRvFmA7RpN5BoDxkVg2GGIg2gou_vy/s640/blogger-image--1276298279.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Moxie, Princess, and Mr Sandals stop after 17 miles. The rest of the hikers stop after 20 miles. I can't stop thinking if the diner in Reds Meadow that we'll reach tomorrow and I keep hiking, hobbling past everyone I know. I eventually stop in an area of fallen trees and find a small campsite. I set up my things slowly, crawl into my tent, and fall asleep dreaming about omelets and hash browns.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Day 64</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Miles 903-907</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I start packing as soon as there is enough light in the sky to see what I'm doing. I race down the trail, knowing I can make it to Red's Meadow by 7am When the diner opens. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7815DYc5AvjBSZBkEu8-iWzqFcTb5Csl3Gje2CKtjVvJ-qGNqQo8BqABOOopeQkg4RPIzxTU2guxZ76P41eAiR6sjGMtsHKEhG46PDvTelBHNaMoHffaw9eX6DuMiD4L6_FzsWlakrjgk/s640/blogger-image-2114951131.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7815DYc5AvjBSZBkEu8-iWzqFcTb5Csl3Gje2CKtjVvJ-qGNqQo8BqABOOopeQkg4RPIzxTU2guxZ76P41eAiR6sjGMtsHKEhG46PDvTelBHNaMoHffaw9eX6DuMiD4L6_FzsWlakrjgk/s640/blogger-image-2114951131.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I make it to the diner by 7:15 and order a huge breakfast of eggs, potatoes, bacon, and toast. I drink two orange juices and four cokes before the gang starts to trickle in. While everyone else eats their breakfast I start to research a place to stay on my phone. Joker, who has hiked the PCT five times, mentioned that condos in Mammoth are cheap this time of year. I find a condo for Princess, Mr Sandals, Moxie and I right in the center of town.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We try to yogi a ride into town from other diners with no success. We sit down beside the road to hitch and get a ride in no about twenty minutes.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJmGb4zDaKLICgtdVLLUZIGCqCaJTTg7TN-NgTAwtlfrTAzvvL85C_jKs0clR3d6wMpnKn0Fm2KtDTEMmZWiAqA24wf9oEjuEGjwieWtKuvn8eu93Neaxy0brMT4YMfVNfttTLF7CsFE2R/s640/blogger-image-1607603491.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJmGb4zDaKLICgtdVLLUZIGCqCaJTTg7TN-NgTAwtlfrTAzvvL85C_jKs0clR3d6wMpnKn0Fm2KtDTEMmZWiAqA24wf9oEjuEGjwieWtKuvn8eu93Neaxy0brMT4YMfVNfttTLF7CsFE2R/s640/blogger-image-1607603491.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We get to the condo, bask in all the worldly comforts, and head out to get some food.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiueQD3JzsU71ANoqsnHFg6hQLfhpsygMbZomttUN1VSa4eMp3hyPfaENBPUCaRQpwnGwephv7YGh3QgXTpNbORi42kNP-_E3i16sExm0buq-8w9E6Cz-GmcbS8NaTikeV721d3g0aCLAbc/s640/blogger-image--1742246144.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiueQD3JzsU71ANoqsnHFg6hQLfhpsygMbZomttUN1VSa4eMp3hyPfaENBPUCaRQpwnGwephv7YGh3QgXTpNbORi42kNP-_E3i16sExm0buq-8w9E6Cz-GmcbS8NaTikeV721d3g0aCLAbc/s640/blogger-image--1742246144.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We get back to the condo and relax for a bit before Moxie and I decide to walk down to the Mammoth Brewing Company for a tasting.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFUQjUHm_g-KqRJjEzyXfRljKVU2m3j7-IUv2USGjCtqnrFBsNumE0VqJ5_UbQz6X947URqL_BsTXA3uZs-Cxwr-vsMIYXFGZp-rT4Qd2QhYy_XcyYYgBj5ddfIs_OF02sPHllvlBI4A2E/s640/blogger-image--2011947271.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFUQjUHm_g-KqRJjEzyXfRljKVU2m3j7-IUv2USGjCtqnrFBsNumE0VqJ5_UbQz6X947URqL_BsTXA3uZs-Cxwr-vsMIYXFGZp-rT4Qd2QhYy_XcyYYgBj5ddfIs_OF02sPHllvlBI4A2E/s640/blogger-image--2011947271.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We each have two flights of beers and stumble back to the condo. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpUaCdevL57Pmo6_gaOnskZm1bYj0HahTo3eOyhlZwjlYorQg7Iu4kfTeuQ7dX7VApd5WOLd1i1oCpSyGBci_Sb8jZ4kIBGunhHqJYZfgx_E2ZmUBr0mwVczcdBv76S4oONnb21E_PvTTR/s640/blogger-image--140947292.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpUaCdevL57Pmo6_gaOnskZm1bYj0HahTo3eOyhlZwjlYorQg7Iu4kfTeuQ7dX7VApd5WOLd1i1oCpSyGBci_Sb8jZ4kIBGunhHqJYZfgx_E2ZmUBr0mwVczcdBv76S4oONnb21E_PvTTR/s640/blogger-image--140947292.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">At the condo we make pizza rolls for the Germans and watch Catfish on MTV. By 9pm I'm falling asleep so I unfold the bed in the couch and slip under the clean white sheets.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Day 65</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Zero day</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Today is a resupply day so after sleeping in and picking up food from the bagel shop below, we all sit around planning the next few sections. We eventually head into town to buy food, supplies, and go to the post office. I mail my ice axe, crampons, and poles back to Seattle. I'm out of the main snowy areas and I'm excited to get rid if the extra weight.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Leaving the outfitters I stumble on this note...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpUjALeb4IKyzudsoAn-FeuvWEp9bb6aUCliJUzJw-sAQWl60wNfR5wrM-gUU1U_65vASrUeay-m8W4EFTBMtRwMTZ6OY0Hf69hr7ivoMLT-RNnuXhAsSRYo4PmQu-Q2ZuHPqf8ZY6Hrga/s640/blogger-image--1205882772.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpUjALeb4IKyzudsoAn-FeuvWEp9bb6aUCliJUzJw-sAQWl60wNfR5wrM-gUU1U_65vASrUeay-m8W4EFTBMtRwMTZ6OY0Hf69hr7ivoMLT-RNnuXhAsSRYo4PmQu-Q2ZuHPqf8ZY6Hrga/s640/blogger-image--1205882772.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Back at the condo we all relax and go about our chores. I sew up a hole in my tent, separate my food (of which I now have way too much) and start to make a salad for tonight. We invited a few other hikers over for dinner and we're making chili and salad.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Hog, Dirty Girl, and Tidy Camper come over in the evening with more food. We laugh and eat, talking for a few hours. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The next few sections are only 3 or 4 days long. I'm excited to keep moving north, but I'm still feeling a little off. Maybe it's because I'm tired and calorie-starved, but I still don't feel comfortable. I miss home, my friends, my routine and my job, but I remind myself that this trip is only six months long. Even though it often feels like I've been gone forever I know that the things I miss will still be there in September. </div></div></div></div></div></div></div></span></div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860000285673806917.post-58912978483028955032014-05-30T09:14:00.001-07:002014-06-03T10:33:17.200-07:00PCT Days 53-56Day 53<div>Miles...?</div><div><br></div><div>Last night a few more hikers arrived at the Courthouse Motel's hostel. Mr. Green, Rock Bottom, and HotXBuns got stuck in Independence after missing their bus to Lone Pine. Rock Bottom has a friend in Ridgecrest who is picking them up today for two days of resupplying, watching movies, and relaxing. I<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> imagine them laughing and joking around for two days and I want to go with them. I don't know them very well, </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I've only met them once before at the Saufley's, so I don't ask. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I'm not sure why I don't feel ready to get back on trail, maybe because I'm alone in the land of high snowy passes or maybe because my mind and body are still exhausted from this last section. Maybe I don't want to leave because I'm in a town vortex. Maybe I'll feel better once I'm back on the trail.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I still feel badly about dropping Miles off at the trail and not going with him. He's a quiet guy and wouldn't say one way or the other, but I'm not sure if he really wanted to continue hiking with me or if he was excited to hike on his own for a while. At least now he won't have to wait for me to catch up all of the time.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I want to stay another day in town, but Independence has little more than a gas station and a Subway, so I know I need to leave. I've been trying to calculate where Rocket Llama must be and how I can meet back up with her, but I can't figure out if she's ahead of me or behind. Teddy Rose still hasn't hiked out of Kennedy Meadows and Sugar Pine and Lingo are summiting Whitney today.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I check out of the hostel and sit at Subway to wait for my dad. I get a sandwich because Miles once packed out a sub and I thought it was a genius idea. Carloads of hikers I've never met pull into the parking lot and I see Carrot Quinn cross the street. She says that her friends are already back on the trail and she's trying to catch up, only 17 miles until their camp site. She invites me to catch up with them too and I smile, but inside I squirm at the idea of meeting another group of hikers that hike faster than I do.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">My dad shows up at 11:30 and has an iced vanilla latte with my name on it. I gulp it down, knowing I'll need the energy for the 3,000 feet of climbing it takes to get back to the PCT. I have 8 days of food, a new ice axe, and a sub sandwich in my pack, so it's heavier than it has ever been. I hobble slowly up the trail and back into the John Muir Wilderness.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWce1S-kiy63GgwAZPEqXGtJ9WgAjMTBRD1TlKOo41peC0P-FLaAUvT-1GTUw-WUWRt7NKEHTI_6IovJEf5X79nhdRlsIM9XfVyEDkSAABq1atkIdQBH0DlGBIHIaa7kaKufM2I547Qyi5/s640/blogger-image--928761296.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWce1S-kiy63GgwAZPEqXGtJ9WgAjMTBRD1TlKOo41peC0P-FLaAUvT-1GTUw-WUWRt7NKEHTI_6IovJEf5X79nhdRlsIM9XfVyEDkSAABq1atkIdQBH0DlGBIHIaa7kaKufM2I547Qyi5/s640/blogger-image--928761296.jpg"></a></div></div></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">A mile into the steep ascent, I pass my friend Gretchen on her way down to the trailhead. We chat for a bit about our plans and I tell her that I hope she enjoys Bishop.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">My dad surprises me, walking up the trail and passing Gretchen and I. He says that he is trying to hike to a lake to go fishing. With my dad and Gretchen within 20 feet of me, I realize that I don't feel ready to be back on trail for 8 days and I need another day (or two?) in town. Most of my friends are behind me and the snow is still really bad in the high Sierras. Besides, why am I pushing myself so hard? Why get back on trail alone when I really don't want to?</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I spin around and run down the trail after Gretchen. I yell her name and sprint as fast as I can with my 40-pound pack. She has her headphones in, but I catch up with her about a quarter mile back down the trail. She happily agrees to split a motel room with me in Bishop and we hike down the trail together, sitting at the bottom to wait for my dad to drive us into Bishop.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu0yDSvaLkIKTbwrV2e9sJMJHEuDyze8dUxdJkz4GONXOwWY3AdahxkPNEz-_-gNoeRx_BidgUH73YP27cBDu387-JnO6p5XfoRYUYyfCtCf3R7X3TllBxJmLjT_78AcVyZ7Bb38kL-QaR/s640/blogger-image-287130627.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu0yDSvaLkIKTbwrV2e9sJMJHEuDyze8dUxdJkz4GONXOwWY3AdahxkPNEz-_-gNoeRx_BidgUH73YP27cBDu387-JnO6p5XfoRYUYyfCtCf3R7X3TllBxJmLjT_78AcVyZ7Bb38kL-QaR/s640/blogger-image-287130627.jpg"></a></div></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I can't express how grateful I am for my dad's help and support. This week, his birthday week, he has driven over 200 miles back and forth from Bishop to Independence to the Onion Valley trailhead just for me.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">Gretchen and I eat dinner at the bowling alley in Bishop, watch some Fashion Police and lounge around the motel room. I have extra energy at 8pm, so I decide to walk down the street to the movie theater and see the new Disney movie with Angelina Jolie.</font></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdLoA4H0ZB0Pv0ubGRY__d-AaoTkRZGMajLi6Eekdh3nI4MxucVC9Lyjduvkln-b22TdKgOT8u8z3PV2328oVsjh67eNtl-VdOcPNyTZvv5dVAPQwa0XfeQf0R9Wi0yQen8bQEWDfomW9T/s640/blogger-image--1913642313.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdLoA4H0ZB0Pv0ubGRY__d-AaoTkRZGMajLi6Eekdh3nI4MxucVC9Lyjduvkln-b22TdKgOT8u8z3PV2328oVsjh67eNtl-VdOcPNyTZvv5dVAPQwa0XfeQf0R9Wi0yQen8bQEWDfomW9T/s640/blogger-image--1913642313.jpg"></a></div><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">The movie is so so and I fall asleep twice, but it's nice to relax in a big empty movie theater. After the movie I stroll back to the motel to find Gretchen sleeping. I peel off my clothes, still smelly after two cycles in the washer, and crawl into the big soft bed. Maybe I'll get back on trail tomorrow, maybe not.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Day 54</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Zero day</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">I wake when Gretchen trips over my shoe and accidentally grabs my foot. We laugh and I remember that the Travelodge has a free continental breakfast. </font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">We go downstairs and I</font><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> gorge myself on cereal, yogurt, muffins, donuts, bagels, and juice. I feel stuffed and go back to our room and climb into bed. I still feel exhausted and I wonder if I have Lyme disease from a tick that I haven't found yet. No, I think, I just ate 2,000 calories and I'm just tired.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">In the afternoon I go to Schat's, a giant local bakery that reminds me of my favorite Jewish bakery back in Ohio. I order a giant BLT and sit on the front porch to eat. I see Gretchen coming back from the grocery store, flag her down, and we both sit in the shade talking about food and who might be coming into town today.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">After I eat we go back to the room and watch a marathon of Sex and the City.</span></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGyI1u0MetZHBZ4bgvdUynY90cVyXu7VHzKzejR6_kbsb-7Ar_Z4D-flJm19rL_Pj_FDNOITmAoeTRSvC5bp0admLyTsvgnU4hwCdYrqHAYeYWEhUeD3l04RvsWRtFklg_x4EXHgIBkwSy/s640/blogger-image--1454632280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGyI1u0MetZHBZ4bgvdUynY90cVyXu7VHzKzejR6_kbsb-7Ar_Z4D-flJm19rL_Pj_FDNOITmAoeTRSvC5bp0admLyTsvgnU4hwCdYrqHAYeYWEhUeD3l04RvsWRtFklg_x4EXHgIBkwSy/s640/blogger-image--1454632280.jpg"></a></div></div></div></div><div><br></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">I laugh when Sarah Jessica Parker gives a monologue that strangely resembles how I feel about going back into the snow. It feels like she's lecturing me, but maybe she has a point.</span></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br></span></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">She says, “when you're young, your whole life is about the pursuit of fun. Then, you grow up and learn to be cautious. You could break a bone or a heart. You look before you leap and sometimes you don't leap at all because there's not always someone there to catch you. And in life, there's no safety net. When did it stop being fun and start being scary?”</span></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br></span></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">After a few more episodes Gretchen and I meet Hog at Schat's, eat more food, and walk to the outfitters in town (there are three outfitters on the same block) to look for bug spray. We see Mogli, Doc, Driftwood, and Tidy Camper on the way and stop to chat. We talk about our experiences on Forrester Pass and about Mogli's experiences hiking to this point without a sleeping pad of any kind. </span></font></div><div><br></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">Hog mentioned that there is great espresso at a place next to the outfitters, so Gretchen and I stop in for some drinks. </span></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br></span></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyOz_wtdr2dXisQEica3c5GbBt7ROyMTOy7_0hTGga6e85gBIgDMWQs3ZYi15jAqExz3VAYXyy295jkWjCty2Oh4i9f1T7Lh15Yr-Uuv1KLHr6k95TH3RWE_TGyC-j7uvKS_AShIpqwiKD/s640/blogger-image--273102169.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyOz_wtdr2dXisQEica3c5GbBt7ROyMTOy7_0hTGga6e85gBIgDMWQs3ZYi15jAqExz3VAYXyy295jkWjCty2Oh4i9f1T7Lh15Yr-Uuv1KLHr6k95TH3RWE_TGyC-j7uvKS_AShIpqwiKD/s640/blogger-image--273102169.jpg"></a></div><br></span></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">After four shots of really delicious espresso I'm hungry again, so we walk across the street for Mexican food. I</span></font><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">'m pretty sure I've gained five pounds since I got to Bishop a few days ago, but I don't care. I tell myself that I'll just burn it off again, I still have 1900 miles to hike this summer.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">In the evening we watch Anthony Bourdain. Princess and Mr. Sandals get into town and she comes to our room to tell us about her experience on Mt Whitney and Forrester Pass. Princess and Mr Sandals are a German couple that have been hiking with Gretchen for a while. I've met them a few times. Princess tells us a story about falling on Forrester Pass and ripping a giant hope in her pants, underwear and leg. She also talks about how mentally draining it is to see faster hikers jog past her everyday. She has decided to let go of trying to keep up with other people's pace. I agree and, for the first time in a few days, I feel less alone.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">Day 55</span></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">Zero day</span></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br></span></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">I meet Gretchen downstairs for breakfast again today and we ask each other when we should hike out. Princess and Mr Sandals are staying until Tuesday, but I'm not sure I can stay for two more days.</span></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br></span></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">I go back upstairs and take the post-breakfast nap I've become accustomed to since getting into town. I wonder where Sugar Pine and Lingo have gone. Maybe they decided to skip Bishop and go straight to Mammoth. Maybe I've missed them and they're far ahead of me. I check Facebook and see that Lingo's mom has messaged me. They should be getting into town today!</span></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br></span></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">I tell Gretchen that I want to hike out today. At least the 7.5 miles back to the PCT so I can get an early start tomorrow for the next big pass. Yogi's guide says that we should go over Glen Pass in the afternoon, but I don't want to believe that. I equate crossing passes in the early morning with easy walking on hard snow and I equate crossing passes during afternoons with postholing and misery. Gretchen offers to leave today, but says that a few other hikers (Hog, Dirty Girl, Tidy Camper) are leaving tomorrow. I remember how delicious Schat's Bakery is and, pondering how many more BLTs I can eat in an extra afternoon, agree to leaving tomorrow. </span></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br></span></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">More Sex and the City, BBQ ribs, and 4 shots of espresso later, we walk back to Schat's Bakery and meet Hog, Princess, Mr Sandals, Dirty Girl, and Tidy Camper for lunch. We all talk about our plan for the next section and I take a picture of the German's itenerary so I don't have to calculate it on my own. They calculated a way to go over a mountain pass every day in the morning, except Seldon Pass which we will go over in the afternoon.</span></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br></span></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAElybSUNXfXPRnmVGLmBkq7ApnmD1H3y97uc-g8zBc1Tzkac5psHBvGEfPHiYo6XMSG7usvyD-J_kcZACplPxRptKnvRSRzJ5kqt0Lg7lUVQfFZVuJIzJMhKEuLgchl6VMgK60OnSMcav/s640/blogger-image--1670910858.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAElybSUNXfXPRnmVGLmBkq7ApnmD1H3y97uc-g8zBc1Tzkac5psHBvGEfPHiYo6XMSG7usvyD-J_kcZACplPxRptKnvRSRzJ5kqt0Lg7lUVQfFZVuJIzJMhKEuLgchl6VMgK60OnSMcav/s640/blogger-image--1670910858.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">While at lunch, I get a text from Rocket Llama. She decided to get off trail at Kearsarge after all! She's on her way to Bishop!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Gretchen and I go back to the motel and watch an episode of friends, the one where Rachel tells everyone that she's pregnant. I fidgit in my bed, checking my phone every few minutes waiting to hear from Rocket. Finally she texts me as Rachel thinks Joey is proposing to her and I run down the stairs. Rocket and I embrace! It has been forever since I saw her at the Saufleys!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuwuWXOcQ5VOA35weeWQrfo3xBj9Qudj6lojW0kPxgoS4saF947gWgGz7umVoo99H-2XJS63p3hdMpmC5vYrvge7M36Z8JYsbW7B0-1XcGFjoY0CkvD5RXySX3TEtOoY7NUdm5a0nV2p4K/s640/blogger-image-95432501.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuwuWXOcQ5VOA35weeWQrfo3xBj9Qudj6lojW0kPxgoS4saF947gWgGz7umVoo99H-2XJS63p3hdMpmC5vYrvge7M36Z8JYsbW7B0-1XcGFjoY0CkvD5RXySX3TEtOoY7NUdm5a0nV2p4K/s640/blogger-image-95432501.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Rocket checks into a room down the hall from Gretchen and I. Gretchen and I sit on the chairs next to her king sized bed and ask about her trip over Forester. She says that there was much more snow this year than last year and she felt a little unprepared. She wants to buy trekking poles in town before going back. We all make a plan to go to Independence tomorrow so we can get an early start on Tuesday. That puts us on the same schedule as the Germans, Sugar Pine, Lingo, Acorn, and Estero. I'm choosing to stay in town yet another day, but I feel ecstatic at the thought of climbing these big passes in a large group.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">It gets dark and Rocket and I go down to the hot tub. It's really tiny, maybe 4 feet in diameter, and we crowd in with a young guy on his cell phone. He's drinking beer and yelling at his mother. He says, "we wouldn't have this problem if you would have done what I told you!" "Stop talking and listen to me!" "It's not my fault you don't listen!" He hangs up and his scowl turns into a smile. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">His name is Ryan and he works for the California Department of Fish and Wildlife at a fish hatchery a few miles down the highway. He helps raise mostly trout and uses them to stock the lakes in the area so people can catch and eat them later. He tells us that they use small planes to fly over the high backcountry lakes. Big doors open on the bottom of the planes and tiny fish drop hundreds of feet into the lakes. We listen to his stories for an hour, then tell him it's "hiker midnight" and we need to go to sleep. </div></span></font><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div>Day 56</span></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">LAST zero day, I promise</span></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br></span></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">Gretchen, Rocket, and I walk down a few blocks and order breakfast at Jack's. It's an old greasy spoon, but the waitress is friendly and asks us about our hike. An older gentleman overhears and stops by our table to talk about his experience section hiking the PCT in the 70s. </span></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br></span></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">After breakfast we go back to the coffee shop because, for god's sake, they roast their own beans. On the way we run into Sugar Pine and Lingo who just bought a children's book for their niece's birthday. The book is about baby animals in Yosemite and Rocket reads it aloud to us. </span></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br></span></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivX3o0QFJBp4uCgZyUJjai6DbHmBCoeeZDwfS5Ye03UQEliZ_nIlyN_ZN7a0hL51T2piX8uFMn3HT_xInTdAJtAyv9P4LdqJJ-jmdBBfCxKVicRMXEOxvAIOcyhEicOWGo3M-rF-qxnnHE/s640/blogger-image-1864318809.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivX3o0QFJBp4uCgZyUJjai6DbHmBCoeeZDwfS5Ye03UQEliZ_nIlyN_ZN7a0hL51T2piX8uFMn3HT_xInTdAJtAyv9P4LdqJJ-jmdBBfCxKVicRMXEOxvAIOcyhEicOWGo3M-rF-qxnnHE/s640/blogger-image-1864318809.jpg"></a></div><br></span></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">Back at the motel and full of caffeine, Gretchen and I get our last reality television fill for a while. We check out at 1pm and try to hitch south to Independence. Some people give us a thumbs-up, but no one picks us up. I wonder, are we bad hitch hikers? Do these people think we're just hanging out in the highway giving drivers a thumbs up? </span></font><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">Eventually a local bus comes and we pack $6.50 for the 40 mile ride back to Independence. </span></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br></span></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5m4ygP7BuX_5vKmAIPK38mocMh5cGscjrJWQZFv4a7SiUG3YTn01_Xu4My_cxmrzggO921uLst9WJ8-5FMJJVkZsOyYkGjHFZpHWTLFHHIYXov9SP7Vuf09BWIkAPeCb4KIIG2zPPAenG/s640/blogger-image--1021146987.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5m4ygP7BuX_5vKmAIPK38mocMh5cGscjrJWQZFv4a7SiUG3YTn01_Xu4My_cxmrzggO921uLst9WJ8-5FMJJVkZsOyYkGjHFZpHWTLFHHIYXov9SP7Vuf09BWIkAPeCb4KIIG2zPPAenG/s640/blogger-image--1021146987.jpg"></a></div></span></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br></span></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">At the hostel, I shower and lay yout my food supply for the next 8 days. </span></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br></span></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5V2bhCdyYOJ8MlmXmihU9bdmBZ8NW817EC57ZbZI-Wpm8OfAE-1HKQEYmJSQhgE5kkCSSroCDsPUm1r14FWtZhp5ZTLAcO4VlFEPd0TDf73xN5irOdYkr7C7xFqGpMWATXDjs8vkcuNqe/s640/blogger-image--1755249225.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5V2bhCdyYOJ8MlmXmihU9bdmBZ8NW817EC57ZbZI-Wpm8OfAE-1HKQEYmJSQhgE5kkCSSroCDsPUm1r14FWtZhp5ZTLAcO4VlFEPd0TDf73xN5irOdYkr7C7xFqGpMWATXDjs8vkcuNqe/s640/blogger-image--1755249225.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Eight days of food is roughly equivalent to the size of a llama.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNqWuYZL2HC-KZyW_JoSxiDza0vVLUqdW_XKZINCp0kTywkUT43fI9JsrPrkdW1e3RVyzwt8g7a5DKjl0aUg5GPLmZoLBfvZUvmSIUdVqb1nBBtx4wdVnx-9Bs99gYSLmrUYisTtJX2IqC/s640/blogger-image-411366087.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNqWuYZL2HC-KZyW_JoSxiDza0vVLUqdW_XKZINCp0kTywkUT43fI9JsrPrkdW1e3RVyzwt8g7a5DKjl0aUg5GPLmZoLBfvZUvmSIUdVqb1nBBtx4wdVnx-9Bs99gYSLmrUYisTtJX2IqC/s640/blogger-image-411366087.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Rocket and I walk to get ice cream at 10pm. We find three hikers who just got into town from the trailhead (Jordy, Penguin, and Scorpion) and we show them back to the hostel, pointing out the courthouse where Charles Manson was detained and the tree that you can sit under to get wi-fi.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I feel excited to get back on the PCT. It's going to be an adjustment, leaving the comfort and safety of town, but I'm ready to get back to the freedom and the exhaustion of trail life. In this upcoming eight day section we'll be climbing one big mountain pass each day, ascending in the morning and descending in the afternoon. I'm with good friends and a large group that is going to brave the snow together. I feel ready.</div></span></font></div><div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860000285673806917.post-4878095698789014142014-05-29T14:38:00.002-07:002014-05-29T17:37:57.628-07:00PCT Days 48-52<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Day 48</span><br>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Miles Miles 745-751 (plus Trail Pass trail to the PCT)</span><br>
<br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Today is Saturday. I rarely know what day of the week it is and I only know it's Saturday because my phone tells me so. Forgetting the day of the week is currently my favorite part of adjusting to trail life. Well, only of you don't count the guilt-free joy of eating everything in sight.</span><br>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">I woke up this morning motivated to eat breakfast, go grocery shopping, and get back to the trail. Before hitching out of Lone Pine, and before 11am, I managed to eat at a restaurant, a cafe, and a McDonalds.</span><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Jolly, Miles, Kimchi and I said goodbye to the Dow Motel and started our quest to hitch back to Horseshoe Meadows.</span></div><div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">We stood on a busy corner for about 45 minutes before someone stopped to pick us up. The driver was a really nice guy named Jin who was in town before summiting Mt Whitney.</span><br>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">We were really grateful for the ride and tried to make sure Jin knew what he was getting in to before picking us up. I know I mentioned this before, but getting to and from Horseshoe Meadows is tough. There's only one road, it only goes directly from town to Horseshoe Meadows through 22 miles of hairpin turns up the face of a mountain. It was difficult to capture on my phone while riding in Jin's back seat, but you can see the road going up the mountain in the picture blow.</span><br>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">The view of Owens Valley from halfway up the road was equally as spectacular.</span><br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitFHdJUOyqMxQBxkuSdHKJF1F6i2n8EpA9meGNbuVJ_X-crXbN_uwE-KK6XamB8j4BJ7Y83F9IIe2yIQ_s8PFx77ZYjy0hBWIwC66tankujJBUfNXgP8TRhY82uCeI51sFNRs00dOS94x5/s640/blogger-image--1060360998.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitFHdJUOyqMxQBxkuSdHKJF1F6i2n8EpA9meGNbuVJ_X-crXbN_uwE-KK6XamB8j4BJ7Y83F9IIe2yIQ_s8PFx77ZYjy0hBWIwC66tankujJBUfNXgP8TRhY82uCeI51sFNRs00dOS94x5/s640/blogger-image--1060360998.jpg"></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">We were back on the trail by 2pm, leaving us plenty of time to hike a few miles. It's only 21 miles until we get to the Whitney Spur Trail and we're not summiting Whitney until Monday, so we had today and tomorrow to hike the 21 miles.</span><br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcHfFKqONaZaWW6lxj8nCUV8QGgJU1iUCvi9LHnbsMBlGjONoVOTvAgHRrgINZ4kfJqgRAjq7gwXtt2mMpt2UhK3m_e8iaa3xytYpy6lUXRc6cdjzoPZjHcj5JP_l73WB7IDVo1gRyE2mI/s640/blogger-image--1251347767.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcHfFKqONaZaWW6lxj8nCUV8QGgJU1iUCvi9LHnbsMBlGjONoVOTvAgHRrgINZ4kfJqgRAjq7gwXtt2mMpt2UhK3m_e8iaa3xytYpy6lUXRc6cdjzoPZjHcj5JP_l73WB7IDVo1gRyE2mI/s640/blogger-image--1251347767.jpg"></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">A few miles in, I got another view of Olancha Peak, the peak we camped near during the snowstorm. It's insane how much snow has melted after just one sunny day!</span><br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSwldVIKlP4QB6psLs39cjZetFzPJ8ymKE6wk6uEHR0ij-FQvOBU6zr18wY7A9bquiOf58MEhyW8ap6r3vJBdD350-YkxgtC7iTryALIG9ght1z6iXDplfar_gbIGacQzLrTXpjLikOYer/s640/blogger-image--1069016255.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSwldVIKlP4QB6psLs39cjZetFzPJ8ymKE6wk6uEHR0ij-FQvOBU6zr18wY7A9bquiOf58MEhyW8ap6r3vJBdD350-YkxgtC7iTryALIG9ght1z6iXDplfar_gbIGacQzLrTXpjLikOYer/s640/blogger-image--1069016255.jpg"></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">We ended the day after only 6 miles on the PCT at Chicken Spring Lake. This is the first big lake of the Sierras and it's clear, cold, and beautiful. Kimchi took a dip while I shivered and put on two extra layers of clothes. Maybe I'll jump into a cold lake when I have more daylight left.</span><br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPeWNmXtGWDnTn974VCHqLNTaf9jto6c3AOOv_D1qVeqfAFMwTCgV29da97jpO0zIEMELzDgy6h3c4oUSPeFuZqWp3EmgodnKmuQ5T5TYhezV0GReePi7gbVzhnte8fErsWRDQ8vPzgkXz/s640/blogger-image--1464560432.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPeWNmXtGWDnTn974VCHqLNTaf9jto6c3AOOv_D1qVeqfAFMwTCgV29da97jpO0zIEMELzDgy6h3c4oUSPeFuZqWp3EmgodnKmuQ5T5TYhezV0GReePi7gbVzhnte8fErsWRDQ8vPzgkXz/s640/blogger-image--1464560432.jpg"></a></div>
<div><br></div><div>We camped on the lake and I set up my tent under a big dead tree. It was the last flat spot and I spent the night hoping the tree wouldn't crush me in my tent.</div><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Day 49</span><br>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Miles 751-767 (plus 4 miles on Whitney Spur Trail to Guitar Lake)</span><br>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">I slept in this morning until 6:30, waking to Miles packing his tent and Jolly still fast asleep in his sleeping bag. I knew that today would be a fairly short day as we only planned on hiking 20 miles to Guitar Lake at the base of Mt Whitney, so I closed my eyes one more time before braving the chilly morning.</span><br>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Ever since we reached Chicken Spring Lake yesterday the landscape has changed drastically. How did we get from the desert to the high Sierras so quickly? I know it's day 49 (and 49 is a lot of days to spend hiking), but just 9 days ago I was night hiking and trying to avoid the midday sun in the chaparral. Now I'm spending the next few weeks almost consistently over 10,000 feet in elevation.</span><br>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Arriving at Crabtree Meadows around 2, I took a short break before taking the Mt Whitney spur trail for the last few miles of the day.</span><br>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br></span></div>After turning onto the spur trail, I hiked toward the back of Mt Hitchcock, another 14k'er that blocks the view of the 14,505 foot Mt Whitney.</span><br>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">A little later I reached Timberline Lake, flanked by Mt Hitchcock to the southeast (the right side of the photo below).</span><br>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">After passing Timberline Lake I came upon one of the first great views of Mt Whitney. Unfortunately, the iPhone doesn't do it justice.</span><br>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Guitar Lake is 3 miles into the 8.5 mile Whitney spur trail. At 11,500 feet, camping here tonight will get some of the distance and elevation out of the way today, hopefully making for an easier hike tomorrow.</span><br>
<br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Tomorrow's hike is 3,000 feet of elevation gain, taking place over 5 miles. There are six hikers leaving between 12:45am and 2:30am to try and reach the top during sunrise and before the snow becomes too wet. I have microspikes, thanks to my freak out at Kennedy Meadows Campground, so I feel as prepared as I can be to summit Mt Whitney in the snow.</span><br>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">As you can see on the map, my campsite at Guitar Lake is surrounded by three huge peaks. Mt Hitchcock to the south...</span><br>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Mt Young to the north...</span><br>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">and Mt Whitney to the east.</span><br>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">I'm not sure how I feel about this summit tomorrow. I'm nervous about the dark and cold ascent, but I'm excited to reach a huge milestone in my life and on the PCT.</span><br>
<br>This campsite is surrounded by marmots. They're everywhere! As they scoped us out, smelling our tasty sweat, Miles and I watched them nervously. Will they chew through our salt-covered packs tonight? Will they eat through our tents while we only take minimal packs to Whitney in the morning? <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Miles threw a rock at a marmot that got too close to his tent. I hope this doesn't give us bad marmot karma.</span></div><div><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Day 50</span><br>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Miles: 767-775 (plus 14 mile side trip to summit Mt Whitney)</span><br>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">I know I've expressed how much I dislike hiking at night, but this morning it seemed necessary so I ignored the dread of getting up when it's still dark outside.</span><br>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Miles and Jolly waited for me to get ready before starting the ascent, but within five minutes they sped ahead and I was hiking alone. Walking alone in the pre-dawn darkness was more mentally challenging than physical. Not being able to see what's in front of me or over the edge made me focus on simply putting one foot in front of the other. Even that was hard though, the elevation forced me to walk slowly and take a break every few minutes to catch my breath.</span><br>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">This spur trail climbs Whitney from the western face. Most people who hike Whitney do so from the eastern face up the Whitney Portal Trail. Once the PCT spur trail gets close to the top, it merges with the portal trail and climbs the last few hundred feet.</span><br>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1W5WfOQkvdlvv-q9QEJBOUTSXhMNXrfNvPYSwI56UPDUzLG3e1Vq0v27xnHUeJhVJnkmdG2Y_qnepC4Yu84qHwKoqS0VnDGfvktTN-ymRrBz02PaK9bYtv8j0P7QVLoys2mKehoJ36pbQ/s640/blogger-image-2004541254.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1W5WfOQkvdlvv-q9QEJBOUTSXhMNXrfNvPYSwI56UPDUzLG3e1Vq0v27xnHUeJhVJnkmdG2Y_qnepC4Yu84qHwKoqS0VnDGfvktTN-ymRrBz02PaK9bYtv8j0P7QVLoys2mKehoJ36pbQ/s640/blogger-image-2004541254.jpg"></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">I didn't make it to the summit in time for sunrise, but I did watch the sun come up from a little further down between two giant stone spires.</span><br>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Just before the summit, you have to cross a long snow field, following the curve of the mountain.</span><br>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Here is a picture of the summit with a view of the Whitney shelter. By the time I reached the shelter, everyone had taken their pictures and were preparing to descend. I stood for a while on the rocks, looking at the valley 11,000 feet below and reminding myself that on the PCT you can never be late. I want to revel in the joy of reaching the summit and take my time, but I feel rushed.</span><div><font color="#222222" face="arial, sans-serif" size="2"><span style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"><br></span></font></div><div><font color="#222222" face="arial, sans-serif" size="2"><span style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5h1CRmnUVms9sx6B6ojdF-PKlvDyi6eJDoHmYe66aqADhWOj82CYv_G4BB24O7nHUEdeBgPEZmiYQ7gZzyL6ROmTvEgRiBhtWJ3rNnOCQMBhlkV5XBa4Mi-5LV0qzj3JE0vjW0t9KKzBR/s640/blogger-image--681257650.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5h1CRmnUVms9sx6B6ojdF-PKlvDyi6eJDoHmYe66aqADhWOj82CYv_G4BB24O7nHUEdeBgPEZmiYQ7gZzyL6ROmTvEgRiBhtWJ3rNnOCQMBhlkV5XBa4Mi-5LV0qzj3JE0vjW0t9KKzBR/s640/blogger-image--681257650.jpg"></a></div></span></font><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi-jVlaN3iuqZULdU7xKPMl1oBk2DLP88gbFZ-bL7Cikq9_KMTamHDgf2VZS08S2b3nhWWwSl4tv92Hpe5WH8tshJ23LyVDvMLMg018FfgiaFrrhZfT_G0GU53U1ax29IF5FwQPLrDVlI2/s640/blogger-image-449065386.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi-jVlaN3iuqZULdU7xKPMl1oBk2DLP88gbFZ-bL7Cikq9_KMTamHDgf2VZS08S2b3nhWWwSl4tv92Hpe5WH8tshJ23LyVDvMLMg018FfgiaFrrhZfT_G0GU53U1ax29IF5FwQPLrDVlI2/s640/blogger-image-449065386.jpg"></a></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">After getting sufficiently chilled and starting to get a headache from the altitude, I descended. The snowfields at the base of the mountain were more confusing in the daytime than they had been at night because you could see all of the different footpaths, not just the one right in front of your headlamp. I got lost a few times on the way down, but made it back to camp in time to find Miles packed up and ready to get back to the PCT. Marmots had chewed through a pair if pants Jolly left on a rock, but my things were untouched. I knew that I would want to take a nap if I waited too long, so I quickly packed my things.</span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">I didn't last long, within a few miles I tucked myself under a big tree, ate a big lunch, and took an epic 30 minute nap. That may have been the best part of my day. I wasn't in a hurry and I watched the colony of ants next to me scurry around inspecting my things.</span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br></span></div><div>Back on the PCT, we had to ford three rivers before getting to a campsite that would position us to cross Forester Pass in the morning. </div><div><br></div><div>I've discovered that I'm really bad at river crossings. In Washington there is always a bridge or rocks or a fallen tree to cross on, but in the high Sierras there is only water. I took my shoes off for the first ford, but slipped on a rock halfway through and dropped my shoes in the water. For the next two fords I just walked right in, shoes, socks and all. </div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnBniwR_44IsopQZMZnSzrUniv8xSJY_T_8p90S_DUZyiimwgg4pzZYNg32pG01NkRh3AjgC2fTyh84sBzATlS5TcokLApukWakeQKs_T5lFCto-78qy-8RmCKI6_coep0xBMNS5PuOlJN/s640/blogger-image-83951497.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnBniwR_44IsopQZMZnSzrUniv8xSJY_T_8p90S_DUZyiimwgg4pzZYNg32pG01NkRh3AjgC2fTyh84sBzATlS5TcokLApukWakeQKs_T5lFCto-78qy-8RmCKI6_coep0xBMNS5PuOlJN/s640/blogger-image-83951497.jpg"></a></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Another change of scenery before camp. Incredible, eh?</span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY_I0AmnwQTngSIIy_B2Pd_Rg00FrHNVYHzFZ18hdxlJQ3WXz1ezQlpGIbgyVNiIOmk9Om5UucxUQJbckDwZI1I-JFXZIcT5ATEpc9UFUT832VeDAOk39t0yN8nL6_46vJBfQa2G48jIy0/s640/blogger-image-1983633002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY_I0AmnwQTngSIIy_B2Pd_Rg00FrHNVYHzFZ18hdxlJQ3WXz1ezQlpGIbgyVNiIOmk9Om5UucxUQJbckDwZI1I-JFXZIcT5ATEpc9UFUT832VeDAOk39t0yN8nL6_46vJBfQa2G48jIy0/s640/blogger-image-1983633002.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Once I arrived at camp I set my things in the sun, hoping they would dry out before the light faded.</div><br></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Day 51</span><br>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Miles: 775-788 (plus 7.5 mile Kearsarge Trail)</span><br>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br>I woke up this morning and my shoes were frozen solid. They never dried out from the last river ford and I struggled to loosen them so they would fit on my sore feet. Today we hike to the highest part if the PCT, Forester Pass. I feel excited and ready as I leave camp, determined to hike at my own pace and make it in my own time.</span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">You can see the pass in this picture below. It's the last "V" in the mountains on the right.</span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhynftQZ89fnIAXWsPX6CVVaa3Y6PBvCzNeUgIGcsAkfwQ53qssNqo-Awit-uY6aDSbSJu-dp56lbGZhENAXkMdfEnwdgungMJ-dR6So9Kk5B8I9NwG389AuksNwgeGGs4Huy5ZcMopMSuj/s640/blogger-image-1662134237.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhynftQZ89fnIAXWsPX6CVVaa3Y6PBvCzNeUgIGcsAkfwQ53qssNqo-Awit-uY6aDSbSJu-dp56lbGZhENAXkMdfEnwdgungMJ-dR6So9Kk5B8I9NwG389AuksNwgeGGs4Huy5ZcMopMSuj/s640/blogger-image-1662134237.jpg"></a></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">When I got to the base of the mountain, I was confused as to where the switchbacks were. Then I saw footprints going straight up the face of the mountain and realized that the trail was completely covered in snow. I started walking straight up, following the footprints and thanking myself for buying microspikes.</span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim4A-goM9WhxugrzwYSjLynHc8dwIboksmSIWrb4pLNZMwDWv-0rPdfVS_qDNUNQMvMN9Nm0LA8hQkHuskSFF_lkixD09foxMrNzoVCnsXaF-oBPipekj9QH-wL3lTB5cNeCX52DLpLYNW/s640/blogger-image--256255539.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim4A-goM9WhxugrzwYSjLynHc8dwIboksmSIWrb4pLNZMwDWv-0rPdfVS_qDNUNQMvMN9Nm0LA8hQkHuskSFF_lkixD09foxMrNzoVCnsXaF-oBPipekj9QH-wL3lTB5cNeCX52DLpLYNW/s640/blogger-image--256255539.jpg"></a></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Can you see all of the people at the base of the mountain, coming to the same realization that I had and starting their steep, slow ascent?</span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0nMwpJ9YDWTEvvUICIPKACgnv6I46EiN-FYVwO2g7ThE7sR5KVR0a7B_XClZkAvOCQir9fW8dUrtYKE_ZDSsFYqEK6au6R5q-wvoZU6z69eXiGUejpYTA9KZ97vBF8vOFmM_fOQ7SzxGk/s640/blogger-image--1584054722.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0nMwpJ9YDWTEvvUICIPKACgnv6I46EiN-FYVwO2g7ThE7sR5KVR0a7B_XClZkAvOCQir9fW8dUrtYKE_ZDSsFYqEK6au6R5q-wvoZU6z69eXiGUejpYTA9KZ97vBF8vOFmM_fOQ7SzxGk/s640/blogger-image--1584054722.jpg"></a></div><br></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Here is the chute on Forester Pass. It can be treacherous at times and you don't want to be the one who has to make the initial footprints after a storm, but today it wasn't so bad. It was just a few steps and much less nerve wracking than the steep ascent had been.</span></div><br></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-7qhnC9GlAwQtIn1UiJyBt8UAMufenQT-s_bJN3jlavFlNiGH51R2Zm0_4QGYCwfWVvutA4T5eChcU1jWyL1b_dctFVOM6-kTDObuXD3K7fkjuynhsBu4MRyB6xlbHf4t7Clrr-_LV-rO/s640/blogger-image--234049851.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-7qhnC9GlAwQtIn1UiJyBt8UAMufenQT-s_bJN3jlavFlNiGH51R2Zm0_4QGYCwfWVvutA4T5eChcU1jWyL1b_dctFVOM6-kTDObuXD3K7fkjuynhsBu4MRyB6xlbHf4t7Clrr-_LV-rO/s640/blogger-image--234049851.jpg"></a></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">At the top of the pass I found Miles and Jolly sitting and enjoying the view of the lakes below. Lee and Zissou caught up, arriving at the top in their underwear. It's amazing how hot it can be in the sun, even when you're hiking on snow. Jolly decided that he wanted to do a front hand spring on top of the pass and we all laughed and watched him nervously. I caught it on video, but I can't figure out how to post it through my phone. After some snacks, we all started the long descent.</span></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj824vdDrMm_vcFF3N3sB9zcq4uHu-1w54dlqwiIaOYOV-p3_9mjptq2XsGUIjQBJ_zJ97IPTqvVO41h-c6qeljfOcK5Boowy4kHsNhoLWQX4y4KAZ0J3DJE6XEOauhnmYcwEZ3b20hWSvA/s640/blogger-image--1083958404.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj824vdDrMm_vcFF3N3sB9zcq4uHu-1w54dlqwiIaOYOV-p3_9mjptq2XsGUIjQBJ_zJ97IPTqvVO41h-c6qeljfOcK5Boowy4kHsNhoLWQX4y4KAZ0J3DJE6XEOauhnmYcwEZ3b20hWSvA/s640/blogger-image--1083958404.jpg"></a></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">After getting down into the valley, the postholing began. The snow sank beneath my feet every third step, making the last two miles of the descent take almost 3 hours. Wet, cold, and exhausted, I took a break next to a river and dried out my feet.</span></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyR0H_jGasWYTAKHfiAM1tqWOdc38clYNyqVcUx5jMs0Fc_d393vv5d0GTkg_w6opgZ5Q414YkSx7HH3HnN9Xg1XqvAHnfYYaOKTVoswTOMQ8bfQF8TrI1kWDJwmymGkwM427augSXfmbT/s640/blogger-image--462793117.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyR0H_jGasWYTAKHfiAM1tqWOdc38clYNyqVcUx5jMs0Fc_d393vv5d0GTkg_w6opgZ5Q414YkSx7HH3HnN9Xg1XqvAHnfYYaOKTVoswTOMQ8bfQF8TrI1kWDJwmymGkwM427augSXfmbT/s640/blogger-image--462793117.jpg"></a></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Miles and I had made a plan to camp after Forester tonight, taking a spur trail over Kearsarge pass tomorrow and having my dad pick us up and drive us into Bishop. It's my dad's birthday tomorrow and he chose to spend it waiting for me.</span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">When I got to the spot where we were to meet, Miles was nowhere to be found. I spotted Kimchi up the trail filling up her water bottle and she told me that he had hiked on after a nap. Still with a surprising amount of energy, I decided that I would hike out too. Maybe I could even call my dad and have him pick us up early (or maybe just me if Miles decided to hike out on his own).</span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Here's a look back at Forester and the valley I just hiked through. </span></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2Ge37lOmwwUrwVI1r7jtBRzgSrj9PsjVwmpWOuZb5KbZ2JkhCrzNyUpB3GTlQ2PfK9NJXGLasGZBoPuDr_KZvex-91l23qUbTaJ-FsE707Wyvwng5vhyphenhyphenIpdVse3vIqBWdZJKs_Fg4jZEH/s640/blogger-image--1993713208.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2Ge37lOmwwUrwVI1r7jtBRzgSrj9PsjVwmpWOuZb5KbZ2JkhCrzNyUpB3GTlQ2PfK9NJXGLasGZBoPuDr_KZvex-91l23qUbTaJ-FsE707Wyvwng5vhyphenhyphenIpdVse3vIqBWdZJKs_Fg4jZEH/s640/blogger-image--1993713208.jpg"></a></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">I found Miles at the top of Kearsarge Pass, only a few miles from the trailhead. I called my dad and he agreed to drive out and pick us up at the bottom.</span></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuwRk4VuM8n-NDGzzb_ONGjt6xB2di-A_jvgumAP21O-x2VEdoUd4wdaI1-miUEd-gZzt2IHTuWjeFfY0YJIsNxka6OVYVT-8nB_fscUv-dkYf8-ysKywnKZmmKWJEdxXuCutDJp72JcTg/s640/blogger-image--25097332.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuwRk4VuM8n-NDGzzb_ONGjt6xB2di-A_jvgumAP21O-x2VEdoUd4wdaI1-miUEd-gZzt2IHTuWjeFfY0YJIsNxka6OVYVT-8nB_fscUv-dkYf8-ysKywnKZmmKWJEdxXuCutDJp72JcTg/s640/blogger-image--25097332.jpg"></a></div><br>Miles and I arrived at the trailhead to find my dad waiting with chicken mcnuggets, beer, water, and brownies. He drove us into Bishop, took us out to a nice dinner, and paid for my hotel room. I'm a lucky kid. Thanks dad, now I'm drunk, exhausted, and ready for sleep.<br><br></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Day 52 & 53</span><br>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="background-color: white;">Zero days</span></span><br>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br></span></span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="background-color: white;">I couldn't get myself to blog last night, so I'm writing this on day 53. Spending a night in my own hotel room last night was a strange experience. I've not yet been on trail for two months and I already feel out of place in a room with a king bed, two sinks, and a big glass shower. Everything is so clean and comfortable and sterile. I woke yesterday hungry, sore, and confused after sleeping restlessly in the warm room. </span></span><br>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br></span></span>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="background-color: white;">Miles and I ran some errands (grocery store, outfitters, coffee) and went back to our respective hotels to relax and get some town chores completed. I made a big checklist of all the things I wanted to do, spread out 8 days of groceries on the bed, and emptied my pack onto the floor. I separated and bagged my food for the next section, cramming it all into my bear canister and food bag, cleaned my cooking setup, and replaced the batteries in my headlamp. As I was sorting my maps for California section H, I started to feel nauseous.</span></span><br>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br></span></span>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="background-color: white;">I've been trying to be good about listening to my body, hearing when it tells me something is off or wrong, but as I curled up on the plush white bed I couldn't figure out exactly what my body was telling me. I finished Forester Pass, but I still have another pass to climb almost every day in this section. While I felt fine descending Forester, just a little wet and uncomfortable, I suddenly felt unprepared to continue. Does my stomach hurt because I need an ice axe? Crampons? Someone to hike next to me in case I slide off of a mountain? Maybe I just ate something bad? Maybe it's a crazy stomach bug from the unfiltered water I drank or the snow I ate on Forester?</span></span><br>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br></span></span>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="background-color: white;">I called Teddy Rose on the phone and talked to her for a while about how she's doing (she's hiking out of Kennedy Meadows in a few days) and it made me feel a bit better, less confused and nauseous. I decided to sleep and to see how I felt in the morning.</span></span><br>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br></span></span>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="background-color: white;">This morning I woke up feeling even less nauseous and knowing what I want to do. I decided to buy an ice axe (my pack is already heavy, so why the hell not?), and spend one more zero day alone in town to let my mind and body rest. My dad and I dropped off Miles at the trail head and I gave him a hug goodbye, not knowing if or when I'll see him again. </span></span><br>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br></span></span>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="background-color: white;">Thank you Miles for your friendship, generosity of spirit, and sharing your time with me the past few weeks.</span></span><br>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br></span></span>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="background-color: white;">My dad dropped me off in Independence, a town closer to the trail than Bishop, and I got a room in an empty hostel at the Courthouse Motel. Thank you dad for spending your 59th birthday in the middle of nowhere, paying for your temporarily homeless son to stay in a really nice hotel and eat like a king. I feel very lucky to have such a supportive family. Look at this picture of us, we're practically twins, right?!</span></span><div><font color="#222222" face="arial, sans-serif" size="1"><span style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"><br></span></font></div><div><font color="#222222" face="arial, sans-serif" size="1"><span style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw0Hpn7U_LxqkUeb-XIJkHQkUcKEdRvah1SaWqzUuMvYN-KFJq5554gz4X11MTuH55O78UW76wUiDmOFBKGO0v6GuTjMMbDepof0SJTN-cmJ6n-4Rz7wuwrc3ynFi8ty-vUGWTGzvB-lcX/s640/blogger-image--532924367.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw0Hpn7U_LxqkUeb-XIJkHQkUcKEdRvah1SaWqzUuMvYN-KFJq5554gz4X11MTuH55O78UW76wUiDmOFBKGO0v6GuTjMMbDepof0SJTN-cmJ6n-4Rz7wuwrc3ynFi8ty-vUGWTGzvB-lcX/s640/blogger-image--532924367.jpg"></a></div></span></font><div><span style="background-color: white; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">After a quick stop at the Subway across the street from the motel/hostel, I curled up in a ball on my bunk and took a long nap. Now here I am, at the Inyo County Courthouse and Free Library, typing my blog entry during my 30-minute time slot before the computer kicks me offline.</span><div><div><font color="#222222" face="arial, sans-serif" size="1"><span style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"><br></span></font></div><div><font color="#222222" face="arial, sans-serif" size="1"><span style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ7KqoiKdJLrOPrydR0fgj4DmUWyWbIbP-TU3DFKCluFtGEO1DllG0phydQ7D3-MCrQ6Co1-RId1WOaZhzW26Y3qvD8if8VUymoXUWwWV2jtO6QgedOBULnrJa_QeNn9pDW8AbHJ9U4T8I/s640/blogger-image--1634082681.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ7KqoiKdJLrOPrydR0fgj4DmUWyWbIbP-TU3DFKCluFtGEO1DllG0phydQ7D3-MCrQ6Co1-RId1WOaZhzW26Y3qvD8if8VUymoXUWwWV2jtO6QgedOBULnrJa_QeNn9pDW8AbHJ9U4T8I/s640/blogger-image--1634082681.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div></span></font><div class="separator" style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); clear: both;">I know that I've adjusted to this lifestyle physically, but I feel like I'm right in the thick of the mental challenge. Being in a large, empty hostel is strange and I'm fighting the feeling that I'm hiking too slow, everyone resting somewhere else far ahead of me. I'm craving more human connection on trail, people to share this incredible experience with, but I'm also aware that sometimes when we desire something we very easily find its opposite. We desire aliveness and find death, we desire wholeness and break apart, and like now, we desire connection and find loneliness. I'm reminded of a question posed by one of my favorite dharma teachers that I often ask myself, "what would it be like if I could accept life--accept this moment--exactly as it is?"</div></div></div></div></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); clear: both;">Wish me luck on this next long section. I should be in Mammoth about 8 days after I leave this hostel, whenever that may be. Right now I think I'll buy a bottle of cheap white wine and watch the cars pass by on the porch. Cheers!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="quoteDetails" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding-left: 25px; padding-top: 10px;"></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860000285673806917.post-75609543978816583742014-05-24T10:16:00.001-07:002014-05-24T10:16:13.391-07:00PCT Days 43-47Day 43<div>Miles: none</div><div><br></div><div>A full zero day in Kennedy Meadows! I spent most of the morning unpacking the box of food my dad sent, trying to cram it in my new bear canister (required for the next few hundred miles) and organizing my pack. </div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div>I got new shoes, but I<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> don't think my old Cascadias look so bad compared to the new ones. My pinky toes ripped holes in the fabric as my feet swelled, but they never caused me any discomfort. In fact, I haven't met anyone else in trail that has ZERO BLISTERS besides me. My feet are in perfect condition and I have no idea why!</span></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitDK2D0q6hE8tXF5EfgBuYqoiH4kaWI0iBeyvKb-aaqop_d9OnJK1xbeO7X-1woTQJdexH6uSn8Z6tMJbkErNkNHIgijVEmF-SK3VcECWk27KewDh66taboIkNX6MbXx3BAGDuNbw4LGSc/s640/blogger-image-353854973.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitDK2D0q6hE8tXF5EfgBuYqoiH4kaWI0iBeyvKb-aaqop_d9OnJK1xbeO7X-1woTQJdexH6uSn8Z6tMJbkErNkNHIgijVEmF-SK3VcECWk27KewDh66taboIkNX6MbXx3BAGDuNbw4LGSc/s640/blogger-image-353854973.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I got my jacket back from Rocket Llama. THANK YOU ROCKET LLAMA! I owe you big time!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Fr786-F7JoqEpfxfXHYLGb7P5-w4AnYNDpeAgifKUaZQGTqlh52P3cmZqWLQhyphenhyphenu5TVp0IWCIOMEAHlECxOK3fog2GCc_eporlLXLVJtw7IfJ9TaYt41RgwOvzFwcy6mW2Lr7fbwldDhyphenhyphen/s640/blogger-image--83879634.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Fr786-F7JoqEpfxfXHYLGb7P5-w4AnYNDpeAgifKUaZQGTqlh52P3cmZqWLQhyphenhyphenu5TVp0IWCIOMEAHlECxOK3fog2GCc_eporlLXLVJtw7IfJ9TaYt41RgwOvzFwcy6mW2Lr7fbwldDhyphenhyphen/s640/blogger-image--83879634.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I also got a sweet note from my friend Kirsten. I love Theo chocolate; what a perfect gift!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS-Krncomn27mVxTQHWewVt6Xvey0FBEcvaeakZl1PCuWi1IU4yqv6KIX807hcnd2pDlc_4jEl9IuqeVibe0rpzsVqhjYvVn4T1KCEbuXcB3q3y8ARlKb4V4mnXiPLqZqL3Bx6kOC61jnY/s640/blogger-image--1455591028.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS-Krncomn27mVxTQHWewVt6Xvey0FBEcvaeakZl1PCuWi1IU4yqv6KIX807hcnd2pDlc_4jEl9IuqeVibe0rpzsVqhjYvVn4T1KCEbuXcB3q3y8ARlKb4V4mnXiPLqZqL3Bx6kOC61jnY/s640/blogger-image--1455591028.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Kennedy Meadows general store is surprisingly organized. With only a few employees, they manage to make breakfast, lunch, and dinner for hikers every day. Hours from the nearest city, they restock the store once a week. They certainly know what hikers like though, big breakfast burritos in the morning, burgers for lunch, and huge portions of pizza for dinner. I spent the evening on the porch, talking to other hikers and watching new folks limp up the road looking for a spot to put down their pack.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaDqjdvgvzD56U8p7lDmOC2HyrSXmTxk7NZ3noxLVNoUYuF3SXT74t1fPOttGGmi40xThRZdOEMlnzvCCKAISbjmMFeiJQeCEWvPLAkzp9Iec3GxVf99hnXLKGdAqD1xUSBwOQTAjA4o-3/s640/blogger-image-892606491.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaDqjdvgvzD56U8p7lDmOC2HyrSXmTxk7NZ3noxLVNoUYuF3SXT74t1fPOttGGmi40xThRZdOEMlnzvCCKAISbjmMFeiJQeCEWvPLAkzp9Iec3GxVf99hnXLKGdAqD1xUSBwOQTAjA4o-3/s640/blogger-image-892606491.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Day 44</div><div>Miles 702-705</div><div><br></div><div>After a nero and a full zero day in Kennedy Meadows, I was getting a little antsy. The store is really convenient, but my tab was nearing $150 dollars and going up quickly. It's so tough not to buy just one more thing: beer, a burger, milk, chips, ice cream, soda, more chips. I knew that I had to leave Kennedy Meadows if I wanted to stay in my budget...</div><div><br></div><div>...then I got another beer and sat back down on the porch. This is supposed to be a vacation, right? I'm supposed to relax and spend all of my money on beer and food.</div><div><br></div><div>Right down the street from the general store is Tom's place. Tom has a backyard full of trailers, hammocks and chairs where hikers can camp and relax. For a donation you can even access his wi-fi. There's no cell phone reception in Kennedy Meadows and Tom's wi-fi is the only way hikers can checkin with their family after the last section of trail.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijJqTQKjd16hTmt-14gm3x7c_JgFNs346bdzapLWniD9wFWwYIA9USb9mC8D0gK53u-degQp2rc-fwRz8Pegn0oA8uNnPD5ZcoTUGMo5YShjWZVy2weui5jG3jsTNGbt7OMVAupl2fJDa3/s640/blogger-image-841824216.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijJqTQKjd16hTmt-14gm3x7c_JgFNs346bdzapLWniD9wFWwYIA9USb9mC8D0gK53u-degQp2rc-fwRz8Pegn0oA8uNnPD5ZcoTUGMo5YShjWZVy2weui5jG3jsTNGbt7OMVAupl2fJDa3/s640/blogger-image-841824216.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Miles and I decided to stay most of the day in Kennedy Meadows and hike out that evening. One of the employees at the general store offered to drive us to the alpaca farm down the street. The owner of the farm sells alpaca hats and socks and such. She took a big carload of us and even let us into the alpaca pens.</div><div><br></div><div>Apparently alpacas are pretty docile creatures and the owner of the farm let us hug some of the friendlier males. I bought an alpaca hat because my old hat didn't cover enough of my head and one of the alpacas became pretty interested in my new hat. He smelled it and rubbed his gums against the hats purple-dyed fibers. The hat was actually made in Peru; the owner explained that the equipment is too expensive to weave alpaca fur locally.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDzITxco170bfq5vJca-vgggraQq-6wxbii7MW8QlkDzTKt3ofBcljucen-aGvD7cNo4RdzGIvECo-aUrEtYToUGjwEJYhhzqBlTrvuEaVXQYHZ9cSmuNgKeUZTXGbeLcgVzrqsosbP9Iw/s640/blogger-image--115049570.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDzITxco170bfq5vJca-vgggraQq-6wxbii7MW8QlkDzTKt3ofBcljucen-aGvD7cNo4RdzGIvECo-aUrEtYToUGjwEJYhhzqBlTrvuEaVXQYHZ9cSmuNgKeUZTXGbeLcgVzrqsosbP9Iw/s640/blogger-image--115049570.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>First job in the new alpaca hat was to eat a double cheeseburger. The store only had one beef patty left, so they used one beef party and one turkey patty. I ordered a double burger with grilled onion, mustard, pickle, onion, tomato, lettuce, guacamole, bacon, and cheese. The cook laughed at me, but happily complied. I told him that they should make it a special and call it, "The Glitter," but he just laughed.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVO9UwuFr4d-9HW4xZHD7Q0bpC5xRieM-RkC3aYjxsL-tra_ZeUE3rVk0eavUXa9idO9FRSl8_vj_lmRw_ch2_Og1Y_JLM31a8rP0t_xdHMZSLjBRJf-x6-9YU4S2SGGX7e1LJLZDT0amE/s640/blogger-image--1249824612.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVO9UwuFr4d-9HW4xZHD7Q0bpC5xRieM-RkC3aYjxsL-tra_ZeUE3rVk0eavUXa9idO9FRSl8_vj_lmRw_ch2_Og1Y_JLM31a8rP0t_xdHMZSLjBRJf-x6-9YU4S2SGGX7e1LJLZDT0amE/s640/blogger-image--1249824612.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>After my massive burger, Miles and I said goodbye to Kennedy Meadows and hello to the Sierras. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpt_YqxQCGMwWunclQBAt4iDo4kZ0Iwhv59uApyeN2iqAk8CaZjNGwiRgFVoTD7Ub2MPPGw5_wk7I7Tpa9mWKvO-PU5Q7umUTHFtjI7h_7lW992b7liu4OsqY9ko3QUIQoipDLw1hSFHKX/s640/blogger-image-1694057750.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpt_YqxQCGMwWunclQBAt4iDo4kZ0Iwhv59uApyeN2iqAk8CaZjNGwiRgFVoTD7Ub2MPPGw5_wk7I7Tpa9mWKvO-PU5Q7umUTHFtjI7h_7lW992b7liu4OsqY9ko3QUIQoipDLw1hSFHKX/s640/blogger-image-1694057750.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We camped at a huge campground only 3 miles from the general store.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdm6G1scZd-C2wkk3rJe-mr5Wf5gkx42htHdqlxkwrybAz0TWbEKdxLcU5UT1rZ6i_DVk0eLto_RiIZ1lqgHekFYWrDNbrtb3csOqmsxJKsYX0Nifu6NAhLhONxZ9jfxjqrIIA3OATzEZC/s640/blogger-image-1239924746.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdm6G1scZd-C2wkk3rJe-mr5Wf5gkx42htHdqlxkwrybAz0TWbEKdxLcU5UT1rZ6i_DVk0eLto_RiIZ1lqgHekFYWrDNbrtb3csOqmsxJKsYX0Nifu6NAhLhONxZ9jfxjqrIIA3OATzEZC/s640/blogger-image-1239924746.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div><div>Day 45</div><div>Miles 705-724 (plus 6 miles to and from town)</div><div><br></div><div>Everyone in Kennedy Meadows had been talking about the weather. The forecast was for a short storm in the area, but no one knew exactly how much snow would come or when it would start. I listened to everyone's predictions and no one thought it would be very bad. One after another, hikers continued to leave Kennedy Meadows for the next 2-12 day stretch (depending on what town you want to resupply in next) without much concern for the forecast. Many left without much snow gear including Wiki wiki, who I met in the Mojave. She only had sandals for 40 more miles until she picked up shoes from her boyfriend in Lone Pine.</div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I woke up having second thoughts about climbing from 6,500 feet to over 14,000 feet without snow gear of any kind. I have plenty of warm clothes, but I didn't think I'd need micro spikes or an ice ax. I also, accidentally, told my dad to send my hiking poles to Independence (over 85 trail miles ahead) instead of Kennedy Meadows. I know I've been in dry chapparal for the last 44 days, but this next 85 mile section includes a summit of Mt Whitney, the highest peak in the contiguous United States, and Forrester Pass, the highest point on the PCT. </span></div><div><br></div><div>I decided to start my day by slack packing (traveling without a pack) back to Kennedy Meadows to order micro spikes and hiking poles to be sent to Lone Pine. Getting into Lone Pine requires a 1.7 mile side trail and a 22 mile hitch down the mountain to the valley floor. I wasn't originally planning on going into Lone Pine, but it would allow me to leave Kenedy Meadows, hike 40 or so miles and get my poles and micro spikes before Whitney.</div><div><br></div><div>It was nice to walk without a pack, but I realized half way to town that I hadn't brought food or water. Oops, guess I'll have to eat at the general store again!</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGsJLo3i87UMtTBHaEwXFjdy2jDex4Qs3z1TYzyVGW9e2_zrGyh7s0QHGJ8GJOji57S1tDuQM7zb1Pm11q9F5qOWyDwpHNR0hOsJPX_M3ch91BVp4915Oypl5v-GUL-KjxNdUP722iwDD7/s640/blogger-image-375037280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGsJLo3i87UMtTBHaEwXFjdy2jDex4Qs3z1TYzyVGW9e2_zrGyh7s0QHGJ8GJOji57S1tDuQM7zb1Pm11q9F5qOWyDwpHNR0hOsJPX_M3ch91BVp4915Oypl5v-GUL-KjxNdUP722iwDD7/s640/blogger-image-375037280.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Back on the trail, the day started out perfectly, brisk and sunny. The landscape was changing quickly and I was filled with excitement to be entering the Sierra Wilderness.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLxwILDqoJH5dmvb_4G0iY6cr1DVrjY-LxAXAC0iISjsHax70oDMbcmeFJ5RB72JrVXmJWszGPrWf1eWdcPixSyrZ56IfGGe4bWL5-j8NI4x48D97F7YFpmulrZM0nlsCNI1TwLumymEXE/s640/blogger-image--1126345777.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLxwILDqoJH5dmvb_4G0iY6cr1DVrjY-LxAXAC0iISjsHax70oDMbcmeFJ5RB72JrVXmJWszGPrWf1eWdcPixSyrZ56IfGGe4bWL5-j8NI4x48D97F7YFpmulrZM0nlsCNI1TwLumymEXE/s640/blogger-image--1126345777.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">A few hours into our hike, the sky turned grey.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8i4MJjrkTbBHf2TiTZod2qkuTXDb8iAhKKnB4sSC1r5ST705D8xJSxr7Ojp53yg9ueWmWCVPek8KXAZCKIciPsUAr9p0xEoiOgPeRaU-WkFrlzDrlocG2LL16lyW-UUwxPNHr34GUzpG-/s640/blogger-image-692601470.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8i4MJjrkTbBHf2TiTZod2qkuTXDb8iAhKKnB4sSC1r5ST705D8xJSxr7Ojp53yg9ueWmWCVPek8KXAZCKIciPsUAr9p0xEoiOgPeRaU-WkFrlzDrlocG2LL16lyW-UUwxPNHr34GUzpG-/s640/blogger-image-692601470.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Snow started falling within ten miles of Kennedy Meadows. It started slowly, but within an hour there was over an inch on the ground.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBWTGFMXFOxOCED0uJgXmOSfKgdr60G8In3SK3Pm1VvbfwG4jXIyOQ0GONpa0hJH1l1BTnMnCdqdPlBWgxYMIKTYpDYqqjM3F5j2M4aSPKWFijbJRRlNMuTLg2-FmK5b2ZJQ0YhmuYqNej/s640/blogger-image-1023884025.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBWTGFMXFOxOCED0uJgXmOSfKgdr60G8In3SK3Pm1VvbfwG4jXIyOQ0GONpa0hJH1l1BTnMnCdqdPlBWgxYMIKTYpDYqqjM3F5j2M4aSPKWFijbJRRlNMuTLg2-FmK5b2ZJQ0YhmuYqNej/s640/blogger-image-1023884025.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We decided to continue forward, hoping the snow would slow down as the day wore on. The sky did eventually clear, but it left 3-5 inches of fresh snow in most places. Miles took the lead, clearing the path and getting himself covered in wet powder.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN7TkmRxSbrriM7BeEbXxDgk_FvtLSfYepIIY-SyKq2XEJ7ES8yJ7CBPjzZ7Hm9blN8GagQNrYNnRbdQYpgbarX8SwF1Y3_1_xTaScUoC2ji1_Nd8at34jcXEPfE-YRpK8fDicystvZPok/s640/blogger-image--1162741257.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN7TkmRxSbrriM7BeEbXxDgk_FvtLSfYepIIY-SyKq2XEJ7ES8yJ7CBPjzZ7Hm9blN8GagQNrYNnRbdQYpgbarX8SwF1Y3_1_xTaScUoC2ji1_Nd8at34jcXEPfE-YRpK8fDicystvZPok/s640/blogger-image--1162741257.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1WuBSL2CQGT12znZTEWf-tji65BylkQkA7LAH_fWdmnb3U4r2ar_9JWytdxqBAgk5WtI7A45tjHY6GhhNY2mcHoIy3Dv1Kkyb0l1_Z9hyOjD0EyMb64a4k4yd-Tjl9K2IAfpW4MXRQKbU/s640/blogger-image--897069285.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1WuBSL2CQGT12znZTEWf-tji65BylkQkA7LAH_fWdmnb3U4r2ar_9JWytdxqBAgk5WtI7A45tjHY6GhhNY2mcHoIy3Dv1Kkyb0l1_Z9hyOjD0EyMb64a4k4yd-Tjl9K2IAfpW4MXRQKbU/s640/blogger-image--897069285.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The trail quickly climbed from 6,500 to 10,500 feet over the next few miles. Miles and I were wet, cold, and exhausted from walking for hours in fresh snow, but the views were incredible.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZgt8fjffjfSnIG-LCdhSwdZnd3idlz_nIiJwPJuJwDJVaZNxmse4jKdnc2312YesYUYknHiQv-cvEIs5ck-8iYTtyCtTaoUmMM6ViPfYBocX2MsGuByqFw0uTwX23PgJ25_odXprmTzoK/s640/blogger-image--1339700852.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZgt8fjffjfSnIG-LCdhSwdZnd3idlz_nIiJwPJuJwDJVaZNxmse4jKdnc2312YesYUYknHiQv-cvEIs5ck-8iYTtyCtTaoUmMM6ViPfYBocX2MsGuByqFw0uTwX23PgJ25_odXprmTzoK/s640/blogger-image--1339700852.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIf_PCJaamGdjwpZVApdoBxHv9Ul_DcE4R5RbhWgoA0sIve3a8Cnie6twLHH0QBSqtNtULNYGro9DdGMWkQ7tYY9EYjhSNmwm4c26t5-nVaLYQg0toL8lpGpT7X1RJnvlJiBH8W_CYzDdo/s640/blogger-image--684589027.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIf_PCJaamGdjwpZVApdoBxHv9Ul_DcE4R5RbhWgoA0sIve3a8Cnie6twLHH0QBSqtNtULNYGro9DdGMWkQ7tYY9EYjhSNmwm4c26t5-nVaLYQg0toL8lpGpT7X1RJnvlJiBH8W_CYzDdo/s640/blogger-image--684589027.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Once we hit the top of a mountain it started snowing again and we decided that it was best to stop and dry ourselves off in our tents rather than decend the mountain in the dark. Miles and I set up our tents next to one another to make it easier to communicate without leaving our sleeping bags. It was a cold night with snow blowing under my rain fly and into my tent, but I managed to stay warm and comfortable. It sounds strange, but I found myself enjoying the new challenges that came with snow and freezing temperatures. People say that us thru-hikers are a different breed of people and I'm starting to believe it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR0CR98Gf1MBiVJ76lvfI2cZtNSFdLXAeqWNZq5WM9owHfK_SDbVM1QExDN1FQSd_tbJS2UD1PzH1OQIEaW4TbBS3Yz9Oz1c1Flv3R3SXcp6vbzHr92H-33TkgWvJj54N-5pkmtFYJgtex/s640/blogger-image-1480687134.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR0CR98Gf1MBiVJ76lvfI2cZtNSFdLXAeqWNZq5WM9owHfK_SDbVM1QExDN1FQSd_tbJS2UD1PzH1OQIEaW4TbBS3Yz9Oz1c1Flv3R3SXcp6vbzHr92H-33TkgWvJj54N-5pkmtFYJgtex/s640/blogger-image-1480687134.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Day 46</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Miles 724-726</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Waking up to more flurries falling from the sky, Miles and I went back and forth on what we should do. We considered waiting out the snow in our tents or getting up and trying to decend the mountain to a lower elevation. Around 11am we heard other hikers walking by and decided that we should follow their lead and get off the mountain while we could.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I expected a long day of slogging through the snow until we stumbled upon Jolly and Kimchi camped only 2 miles from where we had started. They were camping with a few other hikers and had built a nice fire to get warm, dry off, and melt snow for water.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho8um9wIa-tCZHkSWUroqM6qnBFYdoY3Wtrb_4CRreNf02CUrLHxcnUNsqWqAMINV-obcmc7uaDacgoK8AWKoNDc5mYYj1ao1QYYbuoJcT15P-CxBaS4wgaDAd01SXXSBmjzqNFhm9IqJI/s640/blogger-image-1572369801.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho8um9wIa-tCZHkSWUroqM6qnBFYdoY3Wtrb_4CRreNf02CUrLHxcnUNsqWqAMINV-obcmc7uaDacgoK8AWKoNDc5mYYj1ao1QYYbuoJcT15P-CxBaS4wgaDAd01SXXSBmjzqNFhm9IqJI/s640/blogger-image-1572369801.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We decided to spend the day at the big camp and we all sat around the fire for the rest of the afternoon. We talked and watched the sky turn from clear to grey and back to clear again, over and over. It must have snowed four or five times that afternoon, adding another half inch to the slushy snow from the previous day.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVjnN3Nl-loghSJgzOQcz82_LAsBfWwwNo1AaehOYeR5be-KNAugpLT3B2LBSaJf2VxI5EtlNID8Scauvta2HMjP4CNT2AELXihaoulJZuTCQAq9iZnuzyHxtnj8mfabxLc6xeYJ351o-W/s640/blogger-image-124247394.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVjnN3Nl-loghSJgzOQcz82_LAsBfWwwNo1AaehOYeR5be-KNAugpLT3B2LBSaJf2VxI5EtlNID8Scauvta2HMjP4CNT2AELXihaoulJZuTCQAq9iZnuzyHxtnj8mfabxLc6xeYJ351o-W/s640/blogger-image-124247394.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-7CrFtv7no3fLR0_gZPJvW8kiND6xVWd9EIclujw3K-iDo6ZUyqPz06_9ezPsyjgqR9jCUXQuYOiogHk-ZZD2R5WPL4CTqZOnKJ5Guv6_J_voPeqomPXoc4v6D-imIXABgtcUPhc4I37F/s640/blogger-image-454778454.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-7CrFtv7no3fLR0_gZPJvW8kiND6xVWd9EIclujw3K-iDo6ZUyqPz06_9ezPsyjgqR9jCUXQuYOiogHk-ZZD2R5WPL4CTqZOnKJ5Guv6_J_voPeqomPXoc4v6D-imIXABgtcUPhc4I37F/s640/blogger-image-454778454.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Friends and fire definitely make snowstorms much more tolerable. A guy named Stampede built an awesome igloo, I ate a few days worth of snacks, and I even repaired a snowman that had been built the previous night by another hiker. Isn't she perty?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipuD44ITuWldTfE3v5K3JrU0VNVMIbrD-UBaZ-DK8Yu7WgAVZ8yI6mDU24VoCFwJVo6ppP2u7icHADgJ0Ioxj1kFszkl9bd0m2ZB3VJGajGlY0F8_9FUGhC9KQi87m-GOQdemai7RrS0fD/s640/blogger-image--1572978631.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipuD44ITuWldTfE3v5K3JrU0VNVMIbrD-UBaZ-DK8Yu7WgAVZ8yI6mDU24VoCFwJVo6ppP2u7icHADgJ0Ioxj1kFszkl9bd0m2ZB3VJGajGlY0F8_9FUGhC9KQi87m-GOQdemai7RrS0fD/s640/blogger-image--1572978631.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">As the skies finally cleared for good, we continued to hang out around the fire before turning in early for the full day of hiking to come.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP9n0gwIOmfFF-FIOyIq0kDrrGtNkYSOgesfn_y9JqAFtSKTXRqIzmw3LCHHwbWbGIkBa0k5YP-NnKqbd6CIvicVVYK4GyaVeMeplQ3yVwXF7KctKk4aOUyGmnzrTgovw_HtxI_7-R_FCl/s640/blogger-image-1456052942.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP9n0gwIOmfFF-FIOyIq0kDrrGtNkYSOgesfn_y9JqAFtSKTXRqIzmw3LCHHwbWbGIkBa0k5YP-NnKqbd6CIvicVVYK4GyaVeMeplQ3yVwXF7KctKk4aOUyGmnzrTgovw_HtxI_7-R_FCl/s640/blogger-image-1456052942.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Day 47</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Miles 726-745 (plus Mulkey Pass trail to Horseshoe Meadows)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">This morning was clear, warm, and beautiful. Miles, Jolly, Kimchi and I got out of camp by six, hoping to make it 18 miles before lunch. Much of the new snow had already melted so, besides a few patches of ice, the trail was clear and easy to hike.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjksZuPxTvZFDZM5l_Da0IujB1uRkb2cSAuckHvjO__phxSV4Z4WfFT3jyN3HwpFnNXcx8xxW-8iusgJWHZbRqc_aZzD-o0WgUD_DqseL2KtBCb32fJlFjJat7rZXW5UoyHyYMudAYfxNIY/s640/blogger-image-1825778425.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjksZuPxTvZFDZM5l_Da0IujB1uRkb2cSAuckHvjO__phxSV4Z4WfFT3jyN3HwpFnNXcx8xxW-8iusgJWHZbRqc_aZzD-o0WgUD_DqseL2KtBCb32fJlFjJat7rZXW5UoyHyYMudAYfxNIY/s640/blogger-image-1825778425.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">This picture is looking back at the mountain we camped on the previous two nights.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmRlJnbF5bnhjPuC4MoCSVhm5lsiBgTZQEc5h43s7f1uu1dQlBdGdKumbOHHHSabBj2yXTrLvxWq7GLisqhC3O4_xeQGWRoey7K3irJlPiniSBJbcB4FfqvDYlZtwzkfyOzaWbC7nJzGzh/s640/blogger-image-1286462182.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmRlJnbF5bnhjPuC4MoCSVhm5lsiBgTZQEc5h43s7f1uu1dQlBdGdKumbOHHHSabBj2yXTrLvxWq7GLisqhC3O4_xeQGWRoey7K3irJlPiniSBJbcB4FfqvDYlZtwzkfyOzaWbC7nJzGzh/s640/blogger-image-1286462182.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">After making it the 18 miles to Mulkey Pass, we descended on a side trail to Horseshoe Meadows. On the way down we saw marmots and fish! Can you see the marmot in front of Kimchi in this picture?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidd_pXKWxahmYeE1uds329NEx6AzhDgfiJmYHnxBqkfb3hVp5RekWd81c4Ie9Sj_zKKXY4WZVQE7mpTfl3nAJ1RFLT3V7XTQrkNhxiC8kphFLq5b-FBjVBD4zN7sO1b1Td4KMz1o4JYjXk/s640/blogger-image-786009438.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidd_pXKWxahmYeE1uds329NEx6AzhDgfiJmYHnxBqkfb3hVp5RekWd81c4Ie9Sj_zKKXY4WZVQE7mpTfl3nAJ1RFLT3V7XTQrkNhxiC8kphFLq5b-FBjVBD4zN7sO1b1Td4KMz1o4JYjXk/s640/blogger-image-786009438.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Horseshoe Meadows was a totally new landscape for this trip. A slow, lazy river twisted through the valley and fish darted back and forth in it's clear waters. Marmots ran from rock to rock in the soft grass and I felt like I was in paradise. Finally, some real rugged mountains.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzFR33n1fxNlFOpmAF9zkn341cfFWOIp0UJDKbOkbHQt3nzE3Loj5YtCN7hoP5SWwt4VTswT-aLh5PjOvwxdpeVMd9eQ8ePtF4TWLtXPOujA7sPz3m04amLN0-0aG3QHknyKPolYE8O7we/s640/blogger-image--917231268.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzFR33n1fxNlFOpmAF9zkn341cfFWOIp0UJDKbOkbHQt3nzE3Loj5YtCN7hoP5SWwt4VTswT-aLh5PjOvwxdpeVMd9eQ8ePtF4TWLtXPOujA7sPz3m04amLN0-0aG3QHknyKPolYE8O7we/s640/blogger-image--917231268.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We didn't realize it at the time, but getting to Lone Pine from Horseshoe Meadows is a tough hitch. There is only one road, which starts at the Horseshoe Meadows campground and winds down the mountain for 22 miles. The four of us tried to get a ride from campers, telling them stories of our walk from Mexico and the snowstorm, but no one was willing to drive us into town. We sat by the road, wondering if we would get to town in time to pick up my new snow equipment from the post office before it closed for the holiday weekend. We sat for maybe ten minutes before a guy in a Subaru pulled up and asked if we wanted a ride. What luck! The driver's name was Dave and he's the recently retired fire chief for San Luis Obispo. He told us about the area as we drove down the mountain and assured us that the recent snow wouldn't interfere with our hike or summit of Mount Whitney.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">As we drove from 10,000 feet to the valley floor, we watched Mt Whitney from the car window. I can't believe that it's only 23 trail miles until I get to summit the highest mountain in the contiguous United States!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkOy8hY0nzpJ4bY93Hf7bTr3Q3D_ls5ins9X0lk1NAzjVaTmTCUrfVooWM9XY4qE_BWwbAlt9L5cnOegPgqMX3TJ8PRDqK-iP2cOYXE9IXSMg_QnNfdyg3pDMVQz0nx2G3cTy9Sh9Cbhoz/s640/blogger-image--1634306050.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkOy8hY0nzpJ4bY93Hf7bTr3Q3D_ls5ins9X0lk1NAzjVaTmTCUrfVooWM9XY4qE_BWwbAlt9L5cnOegPgqMX3TJ8PRDqK-iP2cOYXE9IXSMg_QnNfdyg3pDMVQz0nx2G3cTy9Sh9Cbhoz/s640/blogger-image--1634306050.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We arrived in Lone Pine still in view of Mount Whitney. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPQzPvq_RqCETBwVt7kLtQeOXOKyucjXPxEHpULgVqyCULOeUl-aeR8rYTBook_vjhUTFCCPZDyij5Wtf5veJot270aqnXvNaEZr4hS51-6trS1PH8IIj6eMeTi0Ywu5WkE4SHAV4Xnl42/s640/blogger-image--1878023089.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPQzPvq_RqCETBwVt7kLtQeOXOKyucjXPxEHpULgVqyCULOeUl-aeR8rYTBook_vjhUTFCCPZDyij5Wtf5veJot270aqnXvNaEZr4hS51-6trS1PH8IIj6eMeTi0Ywu5WkE4SHAV4Xnl42/s640/blogger-image--1878023089.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The rest of the evening was spent drinking, soaking in the hot tub, and planning for the section to come. The motel was packed with bikers, some sort of Harley Davidson group, and one guy in particular took a liking to us. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">A Latvian named Urich got completely wasted and jumped into the hot tub with six of us hikers, hugging a hiker named Ninja Tank and trying to communicate in his really broken English. He kept giving us high fives and thumbs ups, but it got obnoxious as he got louder and more inebriated. I tried to make light of the situation and teach him English phrases like "YOLO", but he didn't have the attention span to follow me. One by one we all snuck out of the tub, hoping we could escape before he threw up in the water. Fun night.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ41XG2l-npKAlZiVGdt005rmlR-X599Xia4JALkBQOVkGGNpkR46jRwrq5HNJzvTTPJqjfTOtkMSzDwrq-FaP5qXVgJJhkD8qb9LpMCGDi1f9WTvuvbFB6-bTtFWMjvXBTAPcWgdtaHlY/s640/blogger-image-1720089178.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ41XG2l-npKAlZiVGdt005rmlR-X599Xia4JALkBQOVkGGNpkR46jRwrq5HNJzvTTPJqjfTOtkMSzDwrq-FaP5qXVgJJhkD8qb9LpMCGDi1f9WTvuvbFB6-bTtFWMjvXBTAPcWgdtaHlY/s640/blogger-image-1720089178.jpg"></a></div><br></div>This next section of the trail should take 4-5 days, ending in Independece. This should be an incredibly memorable section with Mount Whitney, Forrester Pass, and all the high elevations. I'm happy to be hiking with Jolly, Miles, and Kimchi and I can't wait to get back out on the trail. </div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860000285673806917.post-73875101087458494972014-05-13T09:34:00.001-07:002014-05-20T10:48:35.271-07:00PCT Days 32-42<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">In the past few sections I've had pretty bad cell service, so I hope y'all don't mind one big update from K<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">ennedy Meadows. This does feel like an appropriate place to give an update though; 700 miles into the PCT, Kennedy Meadows is considered the gateway to the Sierras. The dry, burnt desert is gone and this week I'll start the climb up to 10,000 feet and perhaps even summit Mt Whitney, the highest peak in the contiguous United States. For now though, let's recap the last 10 days.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Day 32</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Miles 455-472</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Still relaxing on my cot at the Saufley's, I sorted my resupply food into freezer bags and tried to cram it all into my pack. I got some oatmeal cookies in the mail from Kristi Thompson in Ohio, but only half fit into my overflowing food bag. The other half I gobbled down hungrily for breakfast. THANK YOU Kristi!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">The friendly dogs, the laundry done by Mrs. Saufley, the welcoming couches and the community food in the refrigerator all make the Saufley's place feel like home. Mrs. Saufley took a picture of Miles and I and gave us both a hug before we walked back to the trail.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQR7BwhcRO181Qh1j6fA4kzGh55fHowqIKPSEtySnI60xu4eEnqYIA-uNgdlEHhV9g6sXEiC2WgEnrhfRopmGCWnQ08GaXJq9BUhOc_z1Iy3yfc0e5sQR2Z_ZJiGEzMwUSruJEGJjo7HeW/s640/blogger-image-1721177790.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQR7BwhcRO181Qh1j6fA4kzGh55fHowqIKPSEtySnI60xu4eEnqYIA-uNgdlEHhV9g6sXEiC2WgEnrhfRopmGCWnQ08GaXJq9BUhOc_z1Iy3yfc0e5sQR2Z_ZJiGEzMwUSruJEGJjo7HeW/s640/blogger-image-1721177790.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Oh yeah, I almost forgot to mention that I shaved off my beard! Yesterday I went to the local hairdresser and asked to get my hair cut and my beard shaved. She was more than happy to remove my beard, but she wouldn't cut my hair; she liked how it covered my "receding hairline." Whatever.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcTTqc7dXRSpal7Ry78POj-ItWunWohLO0LBiqoBvuj8H92aKPg_jQzKd-CUS-kd078Ai5HzIvGczFx9eUGE8pR6-3QI6XMnxVHFDR4TgN9nK6Hl0cSDxkATTAxjJnv_JRpR8t8_ixtgVb/s640/blogger-image--1764348165.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcTTqc7dXRSpal7Ry78POj-ItWunWohLO0LBiqoBvuj8H92aKPg_jQzKd-CUS-kd078Ai5HzIvGczFx9eUGE8pR6-3QI6XMnxVHFDR4TgN9nK6Hl0cSDxkATTAxjJnv_JRpR8t8_ixtgVb/s640/blogger-image--1764348165.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">More up and down today as I hiked out of Agua Dulce with Miles. I'm still feeling sluggish getting out of town, but I got through the afternoon by trying to keep up with Miles' pace. He's super fast and doesn't take a break every hour, so I have little time to wallow in the heat and post-town nausea.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicBIKWRDgKyjyyOnHEX6qtZMC_Pob8WUwgthpD_k8LDSILEqDrfNEmWf0aqX65fweinSsgaa9Ro7y3SPjbE-pwkDYTowPXt1rXLjq1uuyJ56WvG0fjj-Gz33-gFXUaGJXobg2_qv3_h4Bu/s640/blogger-image--2046390274.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicBIKWRDgKyjyyOnHEX6qtZMC_Pob8WUwgthpD_k8LDSILEqDrfNEmWf0aqX65fweinSsgaa9Ro7y3SPjbE-pwkDYTowPXt1rXLjq1uuyJ56WvG0fjj-Gz33-gFXUaGJXobg2_qv3_h4Bu/s640/blogger-image--2046390274.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCt-wSXVbp69A8okYPriyQjMoJt2MS_Zg2p4X7GfgH1R8H7Kd1ynsYfENpj-tgBRzX05zn_oiJpR6UshR2YI1RApnLiv7yJ7L3lEQsnqTsmB6I_SMSML63SSTctx4R9WcAeWIk-jTrQqwZ/s640/blogger-image--468296765.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCt-wSXVbp69A8okYPriyQjMoJt2MS_Zg2p4X7GfgH1R8H7Kd1ynsYfENpj-tgBRzX05zn_oiJpR6UshR2YI1RApnLiv7yJ7L3lEQsnqTsmB6I_SMSML63SSTctx4R9WcAeWIk-jTrQqwZ/s640/blogger-image--468296765.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The Oasis Water Cache is maintained by the Andersons of Casa de Luna. I was thinking about camping here, but this guy was hung in the tree above the campsite. No thank you, I'll camp somewhere else.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilbVn7Guk84or6fc_z2WcClPvvKTa1tKjgY9qtPVgK2Ghqjww2Iw8Xw6_fAGMeNa7PU0t9TXvhtcYUWHrble_uystSRkceKES5-QwrJOnQHZhfdpoPd1X5cIX-Wru_XDvW_Iq4PBB94M3S/s640/blogger-image-423673902.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilbVn7Guk84or6fc_z2WcClPvvKTa1tKjgY9qtPVgK2Ghqjww2Iw8Xw6_fAGMeNa7PU0t9TXvhtcYUWHrble_uystSRkceKES5-QwrJOnQHZhfdpoPd1X5cIX-Wru_XDvW_Iq4PBB94M3S/s640/blogger-image-423673902.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">After deciding to skip the campsite at the water cache we hiked through the dark until we came across a flat spot. We eventually cowboy camped on top of a ridge a little above the trail. Tomorrow is a nero! I can't wait, more breaks!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVSknKxCJrnQWomwNjTEd6R47E8mMqIHcWTHRyurU-Evf8aPhVryDJqkaDDFAQiSDkdzwufjopF8Py5AtKnvVrPJrTKYj345R08lKR8AE_Cqh5uBdwaxrEjPOLPNquE4fOcy2dcX_8LL9c/s640/blogger-image--1912001732.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVSknKxCJrnQWomwNjTEd6R47E8mMqIHcWTHRyurU-Evf8aPhVryDJqkaDDFAQiSDkdzwufjopF8Py5AtKnvVrPJrTKYj345R08lKR8AE_Cqh5uBdwaxrEjPOLPNquE4fOcy2dcX_8LL9c/s640/blogger-image--1912001732.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Day 33</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Miles 472-478</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">With only six miles before Casa de Luna, it was easy to get up early. We power-hiked the six miles through more rolling hills and burn areas until we got to the highway where we turned off-trail to get to the Casa.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9jJ2zStmBfdQGR0HEzjtSL6dvrHlBKwE1K8txxF87Np9UaPKAQQRgkkjzV-YUPGX0z70rjDEMCuwkAK4CdLi-9zFr8NDH8AdZ8vwqyHiq3LFGzZUyZV2TiZoDouuC6Ly269Nu2oB2Qt3t/s640/blogger-image--602974660.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9jJ2zStmBfdQGR0HEzjtSL6dvrHlBKwE1K8txxF87Np9UaPKAQQRgkkjzV-YUPGX0z70rjDEMCuwkAK4CdLi-9zFr8NDH8AdZ8vwqyHiq3LFGzZUyZV2TiZoDouuC6Ly269Nu2oB2Qt3t/s640/blogger-image--602974660.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Casa de Luna was incredible. Mr and Mrs Anderson are really welcoming and, just like the Saufley's, have turned their entire property into a hiker's oasis. They put couches and coolers on the driveway, a frisbee golf course in the backyard, and thy let hikers use the giant manzanita forest out back for camping.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK4Qtk7hPBqIYvUhi6841Qn-abVb19V-dgDQC9HB4pn13ftl7XkN3fjcMdQQ8Rz5JDa9r6ek0GGeMdSBXM3nUvU870Gh2zFraQ3SInt7I78UQAPfVrSMN1h-2GaQWsf3ZUL3e-itwVbNCz/s640/blogger-image-692988598.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK4Qtk7hPBqIYvUhi6841Qn-abVb19V-dgDQC9HB4pn13ftl7XkN3fjcMdQQ8Rz5JDa9r6ek0GGeMdSBXM3nUvU870Gh2zFraQ3SInt7I78UQAPfVrSMN1h-2GaQWsf3ZUL3e-itwVbNCz/s640/blogger-image-692988598.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Miles and I drank some beers with Zissou, Lee, Peru, and Snort in the driveway before setting up our tents in the big shady manzanita forest.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiu1l-8wctkydy64455AK0eWX-CJGXmNE5OsZ7v_xB9NiMEWaV_NDo_rtzOrMz28N6JmcOWKxhLafKPtoU39kLjPPmv7d5W3up4dWYF6jgo2S2FBAoaOnBhoEZ6Oilf-K7J0HBQ3pHjMOK/s640/blogger-image-2095259298.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiu1l-8wctkydy64455AK0eWX-CJGXmNE5OsZ7v_xB9NiMEWaV_NDo_rtzOrMz28N6JmcOWKxhLafKPtoU39kLjPPmv7d5W3up4dWYF6jgo2S2FBAoaOnBhoEZ6Oilf-K7J0HBQ3pHjMOK/s640/blogger-image-2095259298.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">After setting up our tents, we ate Mrs Anderson's famous taco salad- all you can eat chips, cheese, meat, beans, and salsa. Yum.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div>Day 34</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">20 mile road-walk detour from mile 478 to 518</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">After the most comfortable night of camping I've had so far, I woke up to all-you-can-eat pancakes made by Mr Anderson. I curled up on a couch in the fetal position after eating one too many pancakes and took a quick nap before signing the giant hiker sign on the garage and getting my picture taken with the other campers.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUjCA9VF7G8rky_QNfw95mgabLihnMsSuXa5YBc7-AWBQBuPFcW0ETbAE-PeS06tJfF8M5RYft477kmoIGvWng7FcK-3hiSyJ4DODjRRmLA5FDtgN7wa_vpOMfpUEP7s-IbiYsG0K21AN_/s640/blogger-image-188585209.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUjCA9VF7G8rky_QNfw95mgabLihnMsSuXa5YBc7-AWBQBuPFcW0ETbAE-PeS06tJfF8M5RYft477kmoIGvWng7FcK-3hiSyJ4DODjRRmLA5FDtgN7wa_vpOMfpUEP7s-IbiYsG0K21AN_/s640/blogger-image-188585209.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDYkew4C97D1MOIPlnNSJt80nsCrpjRUMtJBUclp3uOh7CXrRaGpCVnQ_Mo3pPnk3vHdr5pwp5eDf4cwxmwCp6gExehLAjaI-nbdRRD9s70pu83Oxh5E5OO4YJ4IalWnIn3qfqSowmtGLc/s640/blogger-image--1412891089.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDYkew4C97D1MOIPlnNSJt80nsCrpjRUMtJBUclp3uOh7CXrRaGpCVnQ_Mo3pPnk3vHdr5pwp5eDf4cwxmwCp6gExehLAjaI-nbdRRD9s70pu83Oxh5E5OO4YJ4IalWnIn3qfqSowmtGLc/s640/blogger-image--1412891089.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Casa de Luna also marks the beginning of another trail closure. We lost 40 miles of trail by taking a 20 mile detour on roads. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK2C_BUlRoX7AYPnP5p_Av7nO37qmHJ5tQVPGJjUsXs__0274X3F7lnfFNnA8Ud-nOh6JIwdO07aku865_7JQKBlY8BiQ_yg7GhSxJE75kTTYzMktnTLid2OnEb7XW_HUAtLLa75YuNx3d/s640/blogger-image--1713160585.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK2C_BUlRoX7AYPnP5p_Av7nO37qmHJ5tQVPGJjUsXs__0274X3F7lnfFNnA8Ud-nOh6JIwdO07aku865_7JQKBlY8BiQ_yg7GhSxJE75kTTYzMktnTLid2OnEb7XW_HUAtLLa75YuNx3d/s640/blogger-image--1713160585.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtOpB-AgD8IW7kqKMgWh-mM-HUQ88JzFR6hMS3OfRdT3gGICNcexDIcRJrfqR0ya6rG2-LNHzqloiUq_sQZU4Bp199l1ERtwOlI1sU32UJanZ6ftdOWC_CJFjgVk35RQcuw_hqyBODfhNn/s640/blogger-image--523083393.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtOpB-AgD8IW7kqKMgWh-mM-HUQ88JzFR6hMS3OfRdT3gGICNcexDIcRJrfqR0ya6rG2-LNHzqloiUq_sQZU4Bp199l1ERtwOlI1sU32UJanZ6ftdOWC_CJFjgVk35RQcuw_hqyBODfhNn/s640/blogger-image--523083393.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Luckily, there was a bar 6 miles into the road walk. It's never too early for PBR, chicken, and fried mac n' cheese!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqCZQknEutguZi8P2vmoT2I9HJlJcXSnGvuIRlyN1I-v3YCZWetNFf4iy1b_cAGJ2zO14B554vyndLX070uUcaWEu9ygvf-H95c3_4OkBtWBmxfbfpbOCQ7TT5yJGpzwSWu2xZx_87pBXo/s640/blogger-image--309740100.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqCZQknEutguZi8P2vmoT2I9HJlJcXSnGvuIRlyN1I-v3YCZWetNFf4iy1b_cAGJ2zO14B554vyndLX070uUcaWEu9ygvf-H95c3_4OkBtWBmxfbfpbOCQ7TT5yJGpzwSWu2xZx_87pBXo/s640/blogger-image--309740100.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The road walk took us out of the hills and down into an expansive valley. Only 2 miles from our destination, miles and I walked past a small house with 2-foot high fences and five tiny dogs. I made a joke about how cute it was that they had small dogs and only needed a small fence. A moment later all five dogs jumped over the fence, ran into the highway, and started chasing us. I got away safely, but Miles got bit on the leg by a nasty chihuahua. I couldn't help but laugh though, Miles is a big tough diesel mechanic from Tennesee and he lost a fight against a tiny chihuahua. Miles laughed too.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6_J9JAQpgW49V1R0jLTjqVw2bhtG4OS10yOLdeN9CMy-8bT05B1zKNH60c1Ed9etTuWPWywlx6AjIzsJfZKKL5v3PJe7oKNz4NrkwjImtFWYLM9xUnpgDuWY4iqZv1iRNAMDlvw2-vYDi/s640/blogger-image--256428038.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6_J9JAQpgW49V1R0jLTjqVw2bhtG4OS10yOLdeN9CMy-8bT05B1zKNH60c1Ed9etTuWPWywlx6AjIzsJfZKKL5v3PJe7oKNz4NrkwjImtFWYLM9xUnpgDuWY4iqZv1iRNAMDlvw2-vYDi/s640/blogger-image--256428038.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Our destination for the night was Hikertown. Right off the interstate, but still in the middle of nowhere, Hikertown is a series of small buildings and trailers with old western facades. Apparently, the guy who owns the land is a movie producer and really likes hikers. It was deserted and quiet when Miles and I arrived and I thought the place was pretty creepy.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJOh22X7PLcMP-HMHrIj8hyphenhyphenbc58fDqw36dGstmljJeo_doRIojXaWwh6jJMIBgQh2pg2xhfQt33Va_R-3BUVeGA8yA0TuN6Gojx0o4YLI6Xiv2IuEgu_pVNVAAY8OyeINWCN7HK9cXJtRA/s640/blogger-image--1424730894.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJOh22X7PLcMP-HMHrIj8hyphenhyphenbc58fDqw36dGstmljJeo_doRIojXaWwh6jJMIBgQh2pg2xhfQt33Va_R-3BUVeGA8yA0TuN6Gojx0o4YLI6Xiv2IuEgu_pVNVAAY8OyeINWCN7HK9cXJtRA/s640/blogger-image--1424730894.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Even though it was eerily empty and quiet and in the middle of the desert, Hikertown was a great place to shower, eat, and get a good nights rest before crossing the Mojave. It's also a good place to pop your air mattress and realize that you left your jacket at Casa de Luna. Double oops.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Day 35</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Miles 518-545</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">This morning we had to get out of Hikertown early to beat the Mojave heat, but I first had to take a few more pictures of the place. It's a little less creepy in the day time and I enjoyed checking out all of the different buildings. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I also was able to contact Rocket Llama, a few days behind me at Casa de Luna, and she agreed to carry my jacket to Tehachapi where she will mail it ahead to Kennedy Meadows. Whew, I'm glad that's taken care of. Thank you Rocket for saving my jacket!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXguj3tyANCDVbRU_9u2PcDzOIXPzcBH_ZgTeRoqDASUr8N40XvtC-NLLdQle24bvnZYspvTmMKVPH3QR2Kny9XTfCHYGSMZXic5n9M8j8KhtVy1vsQ8bSA4Qdw0trx9bMr7Nv60Bru9zs/s640/blogger-image--471922414.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXguj3tyANCDVbRU_9u2PcDzOIXPzcBH_ZgTeRoqDASUr8N40XvtC-NLLdQle24bvnZYspvTmMKVPH3QR2Kny9XTfCHYGSMZXic5n9M8j8KhtVy1vsQ8bSA4Qdw0trx9bMr7Nv60Bru9zs/s640/blogger-image--471922414.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Hiking through the Mojave was nothing like I had expected. In my imagination there would be sand, heat, and no water. In reality, we walked on the Los Angeles aqueduct for almost the entire day. The path was paved and we often had a nice view of the water even though we had no direct access to it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyPepos7ebrMMpOGYv9FdPWA1J41gpwgadx5maEtAdmUeEVk8wbSAoAoK6kZFoRxPxQwJCUPgKzey1TIE5YQ5w1Yn38l4YnABoxc_7wc3CaVJ16lNDjokU25vloifkPl_xXbZJZcLrXccn/s640/blogger-image-1776329534.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyPepos7ebrMMpOGYv9FdPWA1J41gpwgadx5maEtAdmUeEVk8wbSAoAoK6kZFoRxPxQwJCUPgKzey1TIE5YQ5w1Yn38l4YnABoxc_7wc3CaVJ16lNDjokU25vloifkPl_xXbZJZcLrXccn/s640/blogger-image-1776329534.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcwq0M6NAcntLZLCeWPUWp7Vio1vZkpoeqqpg_45PsycVHdarbFEFJFyytzjpZMc876ZvMXJLoLHAio7INqTIGcuVy51bHU_GuDHC5ts6T0g_Wm7j16I8UYuJJMKZrN6ofRJ1c617ql9Ku/s640/blogger-image--347615699.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcwq0M6NAcntLZLCeWPUWp7Vio1vZkpoeqqpg_45PsycVHdarbFEFJFyytzjpZMc876ZvMXJLoLHAio7INqTIGcuVy51bHU_GuDHC5ts6T0g_Wm7j16I8UYuJJMKZrN6ofRJ1c617ql9Ku/s640/blogger-image--347615699.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">So many paved walkways!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQKBXAoTeuHbx4wXyN8BKxje6sovvjqIYbd2j1YcGky8pBMcoikZw6hqWQzA9T7uVGa_Gyp84-w6uHNCHQpWHdBa5q3EITOEPppyqfbUBD7cwDuCDfJx9ME7VYwQ1wbJZS2kNiNf5q9hwS/s640/blogger-image-1959328537.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQKBXAoTeuHbx4wXyN8BKxje6sovvjqIYbd2j1YcGky8pBMcoikZw6hqWQzA9T7uVGa_Gyp84-w6uHNCHQpWHdBa5q3EITOEPppyqfbUBD7cwDuCDfJx9ME7VYwQ1wbJZS2kNiNf5q9hwS/s640/blogger-image-1959328537.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig3iggDbTXrtWRC4tb-Sk5PDO3zPQrBm45Q4iupbbuUXq6aGK81hL8Naz9gEhR_mQXDibsbBw442MWAQpjN_IbHDqhd8iR-_w8XFYx7NcF1z_WV-U0nwedj4CbgT93I58RgOHl9BoUo-qm/s640/blogger-image--1640959159.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig3iggDbTXrtWRC4tb-Sk5PDO3zPQrBm45Q4iupbbuUXq6aGK81hL8Naz9gEhR_mQXDibsbBw442MWAQpjN_IbHDqhd8iR-_w8XFYx7NcF1z_WV-U0nwedj4CbgT93I58RgOHl9BoUo-qm/s640/blogger-image--1640959159.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Leaving the aqueduct, we walked into a series of wind farms at the base of the Tehachapi mountains. A sign said that this was the second largest wind farm in the United <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">States. Miles and I took a break under one of the giant turbines.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6dHnK-N-GXeJYBrMoHoWpksmZvKDeRLhsTADKQZiaAGWtFQ82oSSIuKFVcxpWM706rW48dKjFWHsHCRnU_2YlJ5cMpo67DdeZxM88neVVHsb2oHjgHvexpqaN3NwoLoOtCh7XPJj2Pqil/s640/blogger-image-876694999.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6dHnK-N-GXeJYBrMoHoWpksmZvKDeRLhsTADKQZiaAGWtFQ82oSSIuKFVcxpWM706rW48dKjFWHsHCRnU_2YlJ5cMpo67DdeZxM88neVVHsb2oHjgHvexpqaN3NwoLoOtCh7XPJj2Pqil/s640/blogger-image-876694999.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">After crossing the flat Mojave section, we climbed back up into the hills until we were too exhausted to hike any further.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEbNMvf-RDu4lk-1aR8z4chK4t7T2Q1iKFu8EDWbG351ZNxNzCfLxjDD5B5P_C9FZdS3XGLshpLJbTezcKrEaFoioabexo835n3Rc0OPrR7-a4r2shCMFQGihG6XgOpEgjtjmvwLndDn4M/s640/blogger-image-189650489.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEbNMvf-RDu4lk-1aR8z4chK4t7T2Q1iKFu8EDWbG351ZNxNzCfLxjDD5B5P_C9FZdS3XGLshpLJbTezcKrEaFoioabexo835n3Rc0OPrR7-a4r2shCMFQGihG6XgOpEgjtjmvwLndDn4M/s640/blogger-image-189650489.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPOebNOBfs0buNCB1757vWJG5xEa02eVoS2wknrhslGVCraeGrjq_PwDQDe6XgqqGQ308kOjfH-Z3gOS-ThK1TUv1VbHFFpFaoZBPoOKhywpUtGvu8xn-ZVTubc1E1DZLs1eljNX5bejQE/s640/blogger-image--1127660498.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPOebNOBfs0buNCB1757vWJG5xEa02eVoS2wknrhslGVCraeGrjq_PwDQDe6XgqqGQ308kOjfH-Z3gOS-ThK1TUv1VbHFFpFaoZBPoOKhywpUtGvu8xn-ZVTubc1E1DZLs1eljNX5bejQE/s640/blogger-image--1127660498.jpg"></a></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Day 36</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Miles 545-566</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Today was more climbing, more wind turbines, and more heat until we reached Tehachapi.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipDzt23nxmGgt9QGhYBQT_gmpkO9kT9mgEjxIY18l3JIWUpQr7GwT4lDPk2UAo7R5Xe6ODtb2-Hx3tRM4cpjpE5jj8kxlAkVcOhGW5NaMTccuiQfI3S5-pNv1R4R6pAm7fRtO-Siw1ff3H/s640/blogger-image--2093650622.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipDzt23nxmGgt9QGhYBQT_gmpkO9kT9mgEjxIY18l3JIWUpQr7GwT4lDPk2UAo7R5Xe6ODtb2-Hx3tRM4cpjpE5jj8kxlAkVcOhGW5NaMTccuiQfI3S5-pNv1R4R6pAm7fRtO-Siw1ff3H/s640/blogger-image--2093650622.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM5896nkRSJQ3AudPUQV61uLx337SkjiKfL9thzVfA7105sIYbPo01YCtrqADx0BmPYJxvPo4IntSyHrt6lSd4pYO31afjkwJOxItOIQlltDaLLvDHUspg8fcv6FymqZuH3Jlzca9EAFPq/s640/blogger-image-1143779462.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM5896nkRSJQ3AudPUQV61uLx337SkjiKfL9thzVfA7105sIYbPo01YCtrqADx0BmPYJxvPo4IntSyHrt6lSd4pYO31afjkwJOxItOIQlltDaLLvDHUspg8fcv6FymqZuH3Jlzca9EAFPq/s640/blogger-image-1143779462.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY19-OY3KooefH869s_oWizCH8esQm7EHH0FRHGkE2MZPcKMyIv0wsFSK9g9ZtFJ38jzgUbG2PRiDpOi14_YOJPliAVpuYEbn16rUbVb7WGAD3qzrzlKdpcHVkD0pgSwIexYKRjF-uRk_t/s640/blogger-image--537821758.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY19-OY3KooefH869s_oWizCH8esQm7EHH0FRHGkE2MZPcKMyIv0wsFSK9g9ZtFJ38jzgUbG2PRiDpOi14_YOJPliAVpuYEbn16rUbVb7WGAD3qzrzlKdpcHVkD0pgSwIexYKRjF-uRk_t/s640/blogger-image--537821758.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwfRIDnE7UIkLQrZKaOmeha_MCRlO0sRPBIYuT-qiC6olIdoqI5hVk1YjhL2Ypfzg5YlZb9rYV2dbxOZZsf-8ECZDzmbR_m1l-vjplvVq4jPrWjc1Wezl2xNyIigJAurtL2AqaoWcMNoPH/s640/blogger-image-792562485.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwfRIDnE7UIkLQrZKaOmeha_MCRlO0sRPBIYuT-qiC6olIdoqI5hVk1YjhL2Ypfzg5YlZb9rYV2dbxOZZsf-8ECZDzmbR_m1l-vjplvVq4jPrWjc1Wezl2xNyIigJAurtL2AqaoWcMNoPH/s640/blogger-image-792562485.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">My mom is the best. She drove three hours to meet Miles and I on the side of a highway, filled us full of beer and soda, and drove us to our motel in Tehachapi. She even left us with a few pounds of freshly made chicken enchiladas. Thank you mom!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4tF7TVwgZ1kU_S13zun68fob-6_YkON2OS4kzjrS4CFWrDyREuKC9Cb3GPvebiFS8MQTO3i6lTSdbCbUw0PpSLQpAvVdoFejxS2WUo6zfvYrbB2umdz04or8ddK0FJXoUDt-yTiEnG6-_/s640/blogger-image--1581387765.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4tF7TVwgZ1kU_S13zun68fob-6_YkON2OS4kzjrS4CFWrDyREuKC9Cb3GPvebiFS8MQTO3i6lTSdbCbUw0PpSLQpAvVdoFejxS2WUo6zfvYrbB2umdz04or8ddK0FJXoUDt-yTiEnG6-_/s640/blogger-image--1581387765.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Miles and I spent the rest of the night grocery shopping for the next long section and drinking coke slurpees from Burger King.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvwinWAUZi-_sBUBNBngAMe1iGXUkh96tRzybBoG6z3ZGwp9soYAc3Vl67k5WMV3y6bVMT-vHGxRfTy_hhcTHpIz9xMtGORPh1hLJhMlgDnI951vgiWwrwadcazl5kZDKZ-6Mkrtr6qqrn/s640/blogger-image--9679905.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvwinWAUZi-_sBUBNBngAMe1iGXUkh96tRzybBoG6z3ZGwp9soYAc3Vl67k5WMV3y6bVMT-vHGxRfTy_hhcTHpIz9xMtGORPh1hLJhMlgDnI951vgiWwrwadcazl5kZDKZ-6Mkrtr6qqrn/s640/blogger-image--9679905.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Day 37</span><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Miles 566-593</span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">It's always tough leaving a town, but Miles and I were on the bus back to the trail by 8:55am. There is a bus that runs between Tehachapi and nearby Lancaster and, with special permission from the operators, they are happy to drop off hikers where the trail crosses the highway.</span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDreRc6Nejj1-DPnlIEYc3RKcOOtM9sALKAw6WHOhQh0pgnI8ibMAoHOo4fReIIl9yPm4aN7xFKmZyG7tC4BnX5BnVesCl-cK8vLGANiOm02aBS0wrFcVEFC4x0czxW5xxWs_CPv9SN7Gs/s640/blogger-image-1839310379.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDreRc6Nejj1-DPnlIEYc3RKcOOtM9sALKAw6WHOhQh0pgnI8ibMAoHOo4fReIIl9yPm4aN7xFKmZyG7tC4BnX5BnVesCl-cK8vLGANiOm02aBS0wrFcVEFC4x0czxW5xxWs_CPv9SN7Gs/s640/blogger-image-1839310379.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Back on the trail, we followed old dirt roads for most of the day. Dirt roads can be difficult to walk on because they have less shade than trails and are full of ruts and loose rocks.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgek52rabpWSndto18NC0VRd_w-vYRys5pMsXrHz6XStqm3wYTPDfGH7FNkjKzztSQvTX4U6eP6tf05sbHh06rqbCOh2h2qyyM7HxxQJh88YWwRe-R9Xyz_r6iH67umzeRnT4BULKdSC6Py/s640/blogger-image--1454628577.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgek52rabpWSndto18NC0VRd_w-vYRys5pMsXrHz6XStqm3wYTPDfGH7FNkjKzztSQvTX4U6eP6tf05sbHh06rqbCOh2h2qyyM7HxxQJh88YWwRe-R9Xyz_r6iH67umzeRnT4BULKdSC6Py/s640/blogger-image--1454628577.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">More wind turbines today. These smaller ones are older models from the 90s according to the sign we passed yesterday. I never get sick of seeing these beautiful machines!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ6sD3akh9Wahws2FrNBNL-6g8oyEycWyrbj4Rz3IQD84cuZ_52FHxyOodSUls2cwTkAtMA4PnrouV3dz8qwVPsyuwy5mGTw1d6iRIqlZmUxG-qVir7Q9pEbWvQoZKPq2zUqRo9KJiP-4i/s640/blogger-image--566509197.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ6sD3akh9Wahws2FrNBNL-6g8oyEycWyrbj4Rz3IQD84cuZ_52FHxyOodSUls2cwTkAtMA4PnrouV3dz8qwVPsyuwy5mGTw1d6iRIqlZmUxG-qVir7Q9pEbWvQoZKPq2zUqRo9KJiP-4i/s640/blogger-image--566509197.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">After the road walk we came to another burn zone. While burnt areas do have a certain kind of post-apocalyptic charm, I'm pretty ready to be past them. I can't believe it's only a week until I enter the Sierras and about 200 miles until I get to the summit of Mt Whitney. For now though, I'm so sunburnt I can't even manage to move my umbrella to take a picture.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrur1WlMim3FLSy7OjMlvif49hlYgi4frIdYqPr1bWueZIMBDngEIMPkXRtQMKmACVyRix0WM1tlvt2LlzfprNED7XEn-Zi1Ip-pSh1BxUScJlC-YJqL4VSYGHQQ3dMn3cF3skJC9DySb-/s640/blogger-image--562127594.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrur1WlMim3FLSy7OjMlvif49hlYgi4frIdYqPr1bWueZIMBDngEIMPkXRtQMKmACVyRix0WM1tlvt2LlzfprNED7XEn-Zi1Ip-pSh1BxUScJlC-YJqL4VSYGHQQ3dMn3cF3skJC9DySb-/s640/blogger-image--562127594.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Tomorrow is a full moon, but tonight we had an incredible sunset and watched the moon rise over the last of the wind turbines.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuzubKrW0mh24Bajfvym03peJPdjim92Qjk-AiHpYbIlLtdPsJ8euTe03QGuDYYcrJmbSwxjndmlXedmEP290h_S-5E4XQH1VNgVKR0Kx08HICzd5KVlVJZQz0FigWWVMvjhqPiWraJZbM/s640/blogger-image--1720020931.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuzubKrW0mh24Bajfvym03peJPdjim92Qjk-AiHpYbIlLtdPsJ8euTe03QGuDYYcrJmbSwxjndmlXedmEP290h_S-5E4XQH1VNgVKR0Kx08HICzd5KVlVJZQz0FigWWVMvjhqPiWraJZbM/s640/blogger-image--1720020931.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Day 38</span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Miles 593-619</span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">This morning my first victory was waking up to an inflated sleeping pad. I patched it again last night sand this time it seems to have worked.</span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ9nXqA83SRsafuHQn9LMWEmqCw7W_MtlUXrzWp8B1cVVV6lhIvvkKnE1_EvDLBMoVe-Pfwv9IBqauKv35I3VQn9bskBMp6RDgFgIK-d6ZSKK35Y3rhif-C-XJlR3PfOVAJUbgpL7VEf66/s640/blogger-image-2021859544.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ9nXqA83SRsafuHQn9LMWEmqCw7W_MtlUXrzWp8B1cVVV6lhIvvkKnE1_EvDLBMoVe-Pfwv9IBqauKv35I3VQn9bskBMp6RDgFgIK-d6ZSKK35Y3rhif-C-XJlR3PfOVAJUbgpL7VEf66/s640/blogger-image-2021859544.jpg"></a></div></div></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Today the exposed, hot hills turned into forest just before Miles and I planned on taking an afternoon break. We wanted to try hiking at night in order to escape the burning sun, so we planned on spending a few hours napping and regaining energy before pressing on.</span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdmhdOv89d_yPKsnkR3K-mzcdbnfV2TuwswetWyabNTNuMmnYmwiL9dRgFq5O1iodqJPBeSU7B607FZTeDKpAA8WAPcI12jBhbp0XtxATg_3LjvzqvT8mAjr3cmGnRl_3zoYhxCSkkWpLW/s640/blogger-image--590607790.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdmhdOv89d_yPKsnkR3K-mzcdbnfV2TuwswetWyabNTNuMmnYmwiL9dRgFq5O1iodqJPBeSU7B607FZTeDKpAA8WAPcI12jBhbp0XtxATg_3LjvzqvT8mAjr3cmGnRl_3zoYhxCSkkWpLW/s640/blogger-image--590607790.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnkPCFUy869-9J1NnvI7oXxvJC5pPgoW-SuSI9qiC1tHwQkS2emfNOzhCGTQ43ykeuge5dbakxx_ST6wVk0FFtvbZXm64z7a7DW0btxc330XWM0WZ9FvbrhrwXgk-NTSWIMh58fxoNOtXf/s640/blogger-image-542819694.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnkPCFUy869-9J1NnvI7oXxvJC5pPgoW-SuSI9qiC1tHwQkS2emfNOzhCGTQ43ykeuge5dbakxx_ST6wVk0FFtvbZXm64z7a7DW0btxc330XWM0WZ9FvbrhrwXgk-NTSWIMh58fxoNOtXf/s640/blogger-image-542819694.jpg"></a></div></div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">After filling our bodies with cold, clear water at a campground water source we found a spot in the shade to relax. We met Jolly there under the trees and we all ate, rested, and talked about the previous sections and how close we are to the Sierras. </span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY8C1iesF06wzq3htR53IkyK0X9GG-eRLPJVYNQcqnxNQw1EXJ3SX879c-st1wNcBecbB3K4sjWFaO4CQaxguOzC8BM9Adu9DNOtfCrE1gYjjhDbEnDICpFI2kd-voGWIZv5E2dq91WNMA/s640/blogger-image--1666088228.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY8C1iesF06wzq3htR53IkyK0X9GG-eRLPJVYNQcqnxNQw1EXJ3SX879c-st1wNcBecbB3K4sjWFaO4CQaxguOzC8BM9Adu9DNOtfCrE1gYjjhDbEnDICpFI2kd-voGWIZv5E2dq91WNMA/s640/blogger-image--1666088228.jpg"></a></div></div></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">While we were still resting under the trees, a huge rental motor home came through the trees into the campground. Three men came out of the motorhome and started unloading boxes. One guy came over to us and asked if we needed anything. I explained who we were, the long, hot 6-day stretch we were in, and asked if he had any beer. I couldn't help it. I'm a little short on food this section (my fault) and I'm always hungry and beer is good cold calories. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Apparently the three guys were setting up for an Alcoholics Anonymous retreat taking place this weekend. Oops. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">After he walked away and I shrugged and settled on my new favorite trail snack- tortilla with cheddar cheese, parmesan cheese, and hot sauce.</span></div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjywZNO6V_7M6SSiGykP_wCwxMko9_bAYMS5Lmz26XXbGNCF0_6SM9O7H6l-XoXbZGyAHkRZ2QHTDVA59wHt2l-EhXEn_m3XXyba8mZiBoW3JFWXc3vg8-_CsN4W4ufDHSuG-cApx0gcVsg/s640/blogger-image-149618472.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjywZNO6V_7M6SSiGykP_wCwxMko9_bAYMS5Lmz26XXbGNCF0_6SM9O7H6l-XoXbZGyAHkRZ2QHTDVA59wHt2l-EhXEn_m3XXyba8mZiBoW3JFWXc3vg8-_CsN4W4ufDHSuG-cApx0gcVsg/s640/blogger-image-149618472.jpg"></a></div></div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Back to the trail...</span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm6M3sHPfcjp3DqpAkdEeloP6OIYoNtgYNLYLGT5XZufoLnFlfp5iKaSHT2UBwu_vmSwWNp-zUrP3EfMItQv12gD5H_4_iXUVlJBzRWKHyXYhG2gAzJEXB9PqKQWt1MP1JxJfKdpgpFDjf/s640/blogger-image--1297594466.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm6M3sHPfcjp3DqpAkdEeloP6OIYoNtgYNLYLGT5XZufoLnFlfp5iKaSHT2UBwu_vmSwWNp-zUrP3EfMItQv12gD5H_4_iXUVlJBzRWKHyXYhG2gAzJEXB9PqKQWt1MP1JxJfKdpgpFDjf/s640/blogger-image--1297594466.jpg"></a></div></div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Jolly, Miles and I hiked from about 6 to 10:30pm until we were stumbling so much from exhaustion that we had to find a place to sleep.</span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Day 39</span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Miles 619-643</span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">This morning I woke up to two bugs having sex on my shirt. I'm not sure what kind of bugs these are, perhaps some sort of oddly shaped grasshoppers, but when they were done they left behind a wet spot.</span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr7hUpjO_Tdg3eFuPu242M5UwS5RqG0f7XoX2khRIAeZVHwMwxAIMhWLTeigkYEh6ALma9jkGsHrkZE6PQCBQoTJrl3-pjX-wexWyjVfT-PIX4rM5zs_Xa__PFfhzJJ0dmVLK5lI-Tl9qw/s640/blogger-image-982182645.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr7hUpjO_Tdg3eFuPu242M5UwS5RqG0f7XoX2khRIAeZVHwMwxAIMhWLTeigkYEh6ALma9jkGsHrkZE6PQCBQoTJrl3-pjX-wexWyjVfT-PIX4rM5zs_Xa__PFfhzJJ0dmVLK5lI-Tl9qw/s640/blogger-image-982182645.jpg"></a></div></div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Before continuing on, we had to scramble off-trail over some boulders and down a gully for a few miles to get to the last water source for over 40 miles.</span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAVqn7bD9_HSjtQi_Ar0Cytlox4KHjDOlNmYTu85JVDx7062T3Kg-UqNNpt9wgHFPHvszjqjWOrLDbHNqdaLhpaGDXQmkpbX5iB4jSFicntSzKn7ELCSFBVBoGJbE4eFwRl8mxbKFTAg5N/s640/blogger-image-1474045594.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAVqn7bD9_HSjtQi_Ar0Cytlox4KHjDOlNmYTu85JVDx7062T3Kg-UqNNpt9wgHFPHvszjqjWOrLDbHNqdaLhpaGDXQmkpbX5iB4jSFicntSzKn7ELCSFBVBoGJbE4eFwRl8mxbKFTAg5N/s640/blogger-image-1474045594.jpg"></a></div><br></div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">We reached 1000km today!</span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQOesRDV4uUWDEkeOXuxBSn-eoKydka4Ttlwd4JtBFMKijtHuYXGHMxminIlXiIRIY54D1QS-pmyoQR7JTrBrFDBAlgIdE1M9Xub6lPtHe4E263IIFUYIvhN4ZpG81X-kd73KZQdCValJM/s640/blogger-image-1517500723.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQOesRDV4uUWDEkeOXuxBSn-eoKydka4Ttlwd4JtBFMKijtHuYXGHMxminIlXiIRIY54D1QS-pmyoQR7JTrBrFDBAlgIdE1M9Xub6lPtHe4E263IIFUYIvhN4ZpG81X-kd73KZQdCValJM/s640/blogger-image-1517500723.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">Today was really, really hot. So hot that Miles, Jolly and I sat for hours in the shade on top of a mountain before finishing the hike in the cooler evening.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9xU3qhC9rM4FtnUlSmymU8fOwd_QsgQhxoF0is98ZLuvaUmVYggz-WdUF5oL1Q0Hc6m-hCdalh6M2oG1R6Ji7PXiSjVQA8mTAylXxI0WYjz3CLi2oqNsj_ZnbkbLEZ4m99EVX8l7rPqk8/s640/blogger-image--1131719041.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9xU3qhC9rM4FtnUlSmymU8fOwd_QsgQhxoF0is98ZLuvaUmVYggz-WdUF5oL1Q0Hc6m-hCdalh6M2oG1R6Ji7PXiSjVQA8mTAylXxI0WYjz3CLi2oqNsj_ZnbkbLEZ4m99EVX8l7rPqk8/s640/blogger-image--1131719041.jpg"></a></div></div></div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Day 40</span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Miles 643-664</span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Today the plan was to hit close to 30 miles and it started out pretty well...</span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjeEJ7esgNctEPhpeo-c2l1P5GNEoTHD_qUzq312MGx_oPH346yUwybt_iDKMH9Ej4Lo7cHkw5ly8hgIPaMciw7k6PBqVrnyeY8NDGx-00mXzHPR4zaOMPXLGqIT6Ywxoy6l2C947lRWSX/s640/blogger-image-2113784885.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjeEJ7esgNctEPhpeo-c2l1P5GNEoTHD_qUzq312MGx_oPH346yUwybt_iDKMH9Ej4Lo7cHkw5ly8hgIPaMciw7k6PBqVrnyeY8NDGx-00mXzHPR4zaOMPXLGqIT6Ywxoy6l2C947lRWSX/s640/blogger-image-2113784885.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt6bO_MHCxPdgHxdkVXgAwgfo325PN0Ta1NwO6rt6Tqr5aXihha2O10B6vXl6zcwqF2LBqWijTaQpMIZuQOPVGMoFhuIEBZWHfDAtcNJBt1eu2oIOvy6EPQPUGaO5aO3o_6hBYkuWyipAx/s640/blogger-image--1694274403.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt6bO_MHCxPdgHxdkVXgAwgfo325PN0Ta1NwO6rt6Tqr5aXihha2O10B6vXl6zcwqF2LBqWijTaQpMIZuQOPVGMoFhuIEBZWHfDAtcNJBt1eu2oIOvy6EPQPUGaO5aO3o_6hBYkuWyipAx/s640/blogger-image--1694274403.jpg"></a></div></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">...until we hit a highway and got cell reception. Miles and I decided to try and hitch into town for some food and to escape the 90 degree heat. To be more efficient, I tried to hitch on one side of the highway and Miles hitched on the other. His legs and well written sign against my smile and dancing was a close competition,but I got the first car to pull over.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicm0f-XV0eZ2XwZDS_ctZCgehkJTI-w57di_WrSQNDYBZ88NYzekKOwvc3V7fy60hg0gsXVgZrZIhofG-aOx7p1qzTqgZ9RtlQVRyKG7hyvXgHkR1Q1OGXo7nKTmHZhUeHrHfYfCM94jFn/s640/blogger-image-514047101.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicm0f-XV0eZ2XwZDS_ctZCgehkJTI-w57di_WrSQNDYBZ88NYzekKOwvc3V7fy60hg0gsXVgZrZIhofG-aOx7p1qzTqgZ9RtlQVRyKG7hyvXgHkR1Q1OGXo7nKTmHZhUeHrHfYfCM94jFn/s640/blogger-image-514047101.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">We jumped into the car with a very nice guy from the Ridgecrest area who was also a fellow hiker. He drove us to his favorite spot in town and even offered to pick us up in an hour and drive us back to the trail.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR9xoMyWwYh812lZz-bOWYFRSiDN2iwQAg3O4zabtREUu8wnVmuP13Rc33mT4F2J1UOHD2243byogAQENr9-dcThWcQRaNJMeuasdWZEMCQMoq8mbpU29eqL2lIVMdZ31hhJ-OQnDIXN6_/s640/blogger-image-1722837939.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR9xoMyWwYh812lZz-bOWYFRSiDN2iwQAg3O4zabtREUu8wnVmuP13Rc33mT4F2J1UOHD2243byogAQENr9-dcThWcQRaNJMeuasdWZEMCQMoq8mbpU29eqL2lIVMdZ31hhJ-OQnDIXN6_/s640/blogger-image-1722837939.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Once we got back to the trail, we ran into some trail magic from Kimchi's parents. Kimchi is a hiker who I first met at the Deep Creek hotsprings. She just got back from a year of teaching English in South Korea before starting the trail. Her parents gave us more beer, water, and snacks which kept us from getting back on the trail for another few hours.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidWq61fHtfuoDTWLub6Gf1iUG51Ggbf4M4z3nvUTo64tnGN2Zgci15W9ttZY-0MpTO6ba2UnaBtCSC2MLcv0QBRR7UIm9KnOEIohbSmGUW28GTrSFI5uKQbugeelK5-ZMzv2fGi8ptT03C/s640/blogger-image--889446270.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidWq61fHtfuoDTWLub6Gf1iUG51Ggbf4M4z3nvUTo64tnGN2Zgci15W9ttZY-0MpTO6ba2UnaBtCSC2MLcv0QBRR7UIm9KnOEIohbSmGUW28GTrSFI5uKQbugeelK5-ZMzv2fGi8ptT03C/s640/blogger-image--889446270.jpg"></a></div></div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Back on the trail by 5pm, Miles, Jolly, and I decided to night hike again for as long as possible to make up the miles we missed during our afternoon of relaxation.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoB-7uHTS3uSZcMHKQ9OEO2Q8my5qJZ6xnFEckXydbpa9dUX-Sv-mEHhWml2KbY_irOmyinnZc4h0Y1WcVVlBOvtomY01K1XV9q6VW4GYGi9Sg5ohTqz_po3IsMhWQRMcbMrXxWOzzat8Y/s640/blogger-image-460177701.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoB-7uHTS3uSZcMHKQ9OEO2Q8my5qJZ6xnFEckXydbpa9dUX-Sv-mEHhWml2KbY_irOmyinnZc4h0Y1WcVVlBOvtomY01K1XV9q6VW4GYGi9Sg5ohTqz_po3IsMhWQRMcbMrXxWOzzat8Y/s640/blogger-image-460177701.jpg"></a></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">Night hiking is like last minute cramming for a test in college. You could stay up really late, reading as much as possible and trying not to fall asleep, or you could get a good night's rest and wake up to study the next morning. I didn't stay up late in college (at least not to study) and I really shouldn't be hiking late to make up miles. I tripped over everything, almost fell off of a cliff or two, and felt exhausted after only a few miles. No more night hiking for Glitter!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">We ended our night at a watersource, filling up our bottles with water that the state of California thinks is unsafe for human consumption.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR_K4mvEeffDX60_XydZxLxht5QBiDoFlvVc3GEDcRejr7lXZcnsCuklO26VVcDb1S_j16LtzVo9dy_lh6JWPlde9dKsffa9ffFmcxmpivEeE9XBZ9sz0PYJ3WtaCvc9FpOlOvNgSWaBbR/s640/blogger-image-1300613222.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR_K4mvEeffDX60_XydZxLxht5QBiDoFlvVc3GEDcRejr7lXZcnsCuklO26VVcDb1S_j16LtzVo9dy_lh6JWPlde9dKsffa9ffFmcxmpivEeE9XBZ9sz0PYJ3WtaCvc9FpOlOvNgSWaBbR/s640/blogger-image-1300613222.jpg"></a></div></div></div></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Day 41</span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Miles 664-689</span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">As of today, I'm a quarter of the way through the PCT. My lips are too chapped for my classic grin, but I managed a small smile to show my excitement.</span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVszSji3cLUlyd_yvlVkIAiR4bdVI_9C7P8LyNY7QqzdC6w4j6PgEsYC2dcJYh8wZVnukR5ajVctVE4eTm0Ii0WOD50NT5VdswXKOznKaqONEL3ZxDeicQ1-b9vg5rQ_tqa0Bzzz5zoRgH/s640/blogger-image-1808795093.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVszSji3cLUlyd_yvlVkIAiR4bdVI_9C7P8LyNY7QqzdC6w4j6PgEsYC2dcJYh8wZVnukR5ajVctVE4eTm0Ii0WOD50NT5VdswXKOznKaqONEL3ZxDeicQ1-b9vg5rQ_tqa0Bzzz5zoRgH/s640/blogger-image-1808795093.jpg"></a></div></div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">Today was one of the most physically demanding days on the PCT thus far. Over the 25 miles I hiked, the trail went over three mountains, gaining and loosing 7,000 feet in elevation in the process.</span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqUMsf4PoN7JkOQGSSuL3PjHwodSIWbfN1DirRxRxVXKy3FLFQIZQtNkPSZj_15FsHWI87n_gvqbD-QATiudKSNCOlR0CeSVwwwOQN55y9CJQE7CDszQ99Q0rr06vDC4nxTHUBfO6ox8MC/s640/blogger-image-1379668989.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqUMsf4PoN7JkOQGSSuL3PjHwodSIWbfN1DirRxRxVXKy3FLFQIZQtNkPSZj_15FsHWI87n_gvqbD-QATiudKSNCOlR0CeSVwwwOQN55y9CJQE7CDszQ99Q0rr06vDC4nxTHUBfO6ox8MC/s640/blogger-image-1379668989.jpg"></a></div></div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I've felt really drained the past few days, both physically and emotionally. Today, as I hiked alone knowing that it was useless trying to keep up with Miles and Jolly on these ascents, I realized that I haven't really been hiking my own hike. Miles has been really sweet to lower his daily mileage and compromise with me on how far I can go each day, but that's not working for me any more. I've been hiking longer than I'd like, with less breaks along the way, just to keep up with friends who are naturally faster than I am. As I hiked at my own pace today I felt less sore, better rested, and more energetic. I even sang some Janis Joplin, did some hike dancing, and felt much more like myself and less like a hurried, stressed out Glitter-monster.</span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div>I'm so excited to be on the PCT and I'm thrilled to be on the edge of a big change in landscape. For now though, more non-potable water to drink underneath an old, crumbled mill.</div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTd-iFsTyG6ALyoy9lwjFKOiHtRG4789x6oaQ2Fe9dyFcHurqK7u58Dt65JTVNb_1wWwK0JPL5dRgT8pdLMm9yO73VmJ0UfwH05gDK6N3Nc_NUoeCMWZT-8aF-OED7wQpFM0iAd-GaXdNk/s640/blogger-image-734597289.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTd-iFsTyG6ALyoy9lwjFKOiHtRG4789x6oaQ2Fe9dyFcHurqK7u58Dt65JTVNb_1wWwK0JPL5dRgT8pdLMm9yO73VmJ0UfwH05gDK6N3Nc_NUoeCMWZT-8aF-OED7wQpFM0iAd-GaXdNk/s640/blogger-image-734597289.jpg"></a></div></span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje22YpRFo9B-hpE9LAqMcqhAelQ6TI-l6MHr_SCqWehnzYF5CJoXA4PTdgnZygdla7dsPBoW4t9wHNq-a8qpN4ilynz5bUpVIQGvsb4mf77iSJHVsplxgEvp3nXeyZHl2sc6P4KYARHIJY/s640/blogger-image-764084888.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje22YpRFo9B-hpE9LAqMcqhAelQ6TI-l6MHr_SCqWehnzYF5CJoXA4PTdgnZygdla7dsPBoW4t9wHNq-a8qpN4ilynz5bUpVIQGvsb4mf77iSJHVsplxgEvp3nXeyZHl2sc6P4KYARHIJY/s640/blogger-image-764084888.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">As we enter the boundary to the Sequoia National Forest, the landscape is already changing. Trees are getting taller, valleys greener, and tomorrow we'll pass a real river!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR_1R8m8SGD1KKwRTIwm7ripECxsFgmqi-hnfE_HDzClrt-GFDSpUqGN4Www1AtykmasA45e5d-SEKifkeVPS2S49zqxu9KLPMh3lfqlkKOWVuZ9UrqfDePsA1-hsRxPh6INxOeVqqGqWC/s640/blogger-image--184252370.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR_1R8m8SGD1KKwRTIwm7ripECxsFgmqi-hnfE_HDzClrt-GFDSpUqGN4Www1AtykmasA45e5d-SEKifkeVPS2S49zqxu9KLPMh3lfqlkKOWVuZ9UrqfDePsA1-hsRxPh6INxOeVqqGqWC/s640/blogger-image--184252370.jpg"></a></div><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I'm in love with the cool cloud formations that drift out of the high Sierras. Tomorrow we'll be in Kennedy Meadows!</span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUcgWdZo9-LqrjHVtYcsxdW8IWw94vriN2FbtRmCRLHoqTEPZ2zixzl5ITAZyAWChPqZUOTWrfzjfKt3sfeeN_jbdEnArE_IPbvMlfQzR1kvFZbVI6c2E1B9rdZ4_dA1gMpQGziN3oZPnR/s640/blogger-image--724164433.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUcgWdZo9-LqrjHVtYcsxdW8IWw94vriN2FbtRmCRLHoqTEPZ2zixzl5ITAZyAWChPqZUOTWrfzjfKt3sfeeN_jbdEnArE_IPbvMlfQzR1kvFZbVI6c2E1B9rdZ4_dA1gMpQGziN3oZPnR/s640/blogger-image--724164433.jpg"></a></div><br></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Day 42</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Miles 689-702</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">Morning routine step one, scrape yesterday's dirt off the bottom of my socks.</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRBoEvknvemdgEmfg2i1vSx8St_vZ4hxUZUqRMI5KS-NTRx4yGmS4_MNVvbp-kOhcUCuGqLObG0Z6tpoc5Ol6MPI_7jiG74SvW47iKk4-TzGaa5-x31TGfiNG2RmNcvuoG0fiUeI0t2BAs/s640/blogger-image--1970463271.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRBoEvknvemdgEmfg2i1vSx8St_vZ4hxUZUqRMI5KS-NTRx4yGmS4_MNVvbp-kOhcUCuGqLObG0Z6tpoc5Ol6MPI_7jiG74SvW47iKk4-TzGaa5-x31TGfiNG2RmNcvuoG0fiUeI0t2BAs/s640/blogger-image--1970463271.jpg"></a></div><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">More chapped smiles.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjEVsaflgqC9-60wIrMkb1CrbKQCziFlg9C6soVpUQos6WyrNMzqSYcfvKpuZpqPV1S6Q3JaEWy0gThNRhPv1sUPwm2arFrXnmgOfYywgnp4tvzXgbY9sZMvOVrhta9RzJz7Dhyphenhyphen9kwnsSM/s640/blogger-image-1898085331.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjEVsaflgqC9-60wIrMkb1CrbKQCziFlg9C6soVpUQos6WyrNMzqSYcfvKpuZpqPV1S6Q3JaEWy0gThNRhPv1sUPwm2arFrXnmgOfYywgnp4tvzXgbY9sZMvOVrhta9RzJz7Dhyphenhyphen9kwnsSM/s640/blogger-image-1898085331.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Look, a river!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg72OVU1AVTfrUGv7mtgFnpuG_Dai2f2_bFDuby7y_C0ih49ngEJIoaYgOHW-Q1pgkaaIzxCCqJOSw707Wk7IKVqZR0-AHn55K8Kkj-ujMsGGFLgjjax7OCLcsJFWAPbrhavFMEQF0coKcz/s640/blogger-image-294937573.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg72OVU1AVTfrUGv7mtgFnpuG_Dai2f2_bFDuby7y_C0ih49ngEJIoaYgOHW-Q1pgkaaIzxCCqJOSw707Wk7IKVqZR0-AHn55K8Kkj-ujMsGGFLgjjax7OCLcsJFWAPbrhavFMEQF0coKcz/s640/blogger-image-294937573.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Dun dun DUN! It's Kennedy Meadows! This cute little general store and a few houses are all that make up this town. No cell reception, but they do have a giant deck where hikers can eat and relax in the shade.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhInV27XWrgs7mCs_cmwNIsw5psBrpJiXVYdVSDNePRqBeLiEZN7i6Unp4FqqmuZYiywSwXzhlrD_MMDLLgLnzXQK0GBq6ZT_x2qJQ36BdzpJhGNLmK0sBoU5TqD73yO1QPGruOQjpuVyzW/s640/blogger-image--675243001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhInV27XWrgs7mCs_cmwNIsw5psBrpJiXVYdVSDNePRqBeLiEZN7i6Unp4FqqmuZYiywSwXzhlrD_MMDLLgLnzXQK0GBq6ZT_x2qJQ36BdzpJhGNLmK0sBoU5TqD73yO1QPGruOQjpuVyzW/s640/blogger-image--675243001.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I got this sweet note from home today. Thanks Kir, I loooove you!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCpJkgeqERyS3TUEFH6ou95HEPiAk0UnhEeDgNqop-L4-R4zVD_GTIJuayPatG9o2PuakKlAx0pyhSv1w3gqt-uA4KjbvB24L-Nxhlw3NhCQGjtpdiEzD_eFPiLr5Rj4dXOKntvMK4OJpv/s640/blogger-image--1992536561.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCpJkgeqERyS3TUEFH6ou95HEPiAk0UnhEeDgNqop-L4-R4zVD_GTIJuayPatG9o2PuakKlAx0pyhSv1w3gqt-uA4KjbvB24L-Nxhlw3NhCQGjtpdiEzD_eFPiLr5Rj4dXOKntvMK4OJpv/s640/blogger-image--1992536561.jpg"></a></div><br></div>I'm so excited to head into the mountains this week. Thank you all for your support and kind comments on my blog. I still haven't figured out how to respond to the comments you leave from my cell phone, but I'll figure it out soon! For those of you who asked, my new tent is a Mountain Hardware Super Mega Ultralight tent. Silly name, but it's worked really well so far!</div><br></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860000285673806917.post-14493195040138230282014-05-09T14:50:00.001-07:002014-05-19T09:52:56.792-07:00PCT Days 27-31Day 27<div>Miles 369-383 (plus the tiny <span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Baden-Powel</span>l side trail)</div><div><br></div><div>I woke up around 7am today and managed to shower, eat breakfast pizza, grocery shop, eat second breakfast, pack my backpack and drink three sodas by 11am. Clean and full of high fructose corn syrup I walked back out to the main road and stuck out my thumb.</div><div><br></div><div>A very sweet woman from Wrightwood picked me up within 5 minutes. She's a local who shuttles hikers to and from the trail. On the way up the mountain she told me about her three trips on the Camino del Santiago with her husband and asked me about myself. It ends up that she knows a few people that I went to high school with. Small world!</div><div><br></div><div>Here's a self portrait with some awful new sunglasses I bought (stepped on the old ones) and Mount Baden-Powell in the background.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzJjuKdpJD75ow7Tj7WNubM7olYXajis5UQJKPbVwnGOylJhbS7kJrcbDiD9X612bvn909MCcm72f_1mU5juwN3HXHIlvffhyphenhyphen315yLTjFphNQyc8QyuFOrTcYtzmuTIbhUeZyFbIsx8AWX/s640/blogger-image-165075754.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzJjuKdpJD75ow7Tj7WNubM7olYXajis5UQJKPbVwnGOylJhbS7kJrcbDiD9X612bvn909MCcm72f_1mU5juwN3HXHIlvffhyphenhyphen315yLTjFphNQyc8QyuFOrTcYtzmuTIbhUeZyFbIsx8AWX/s640/blogger-image-165075754.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I'm finding that the first day out of a town is really tough. My muscles are relaxed, I'm full of greasy food, and my motivation to hike is really low. Instead of getting frustrated at my sluggish pace, I just took tons of breaks. I like breaks; breaks are fun.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiue8rAkdDCaG7bM0W9HTx4prPKQUnn-5zC2Sv3spbwBbGF16LjRve6KXv2ChZran91TQEsn1MC57w6BJDfPXZR-5hZzzBoNijs3DMSQkdv4ytB4UUG7f6h5QZKtMEYKwg9p6N1fh8_6EuS/s640/blogger-image--1210781227.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiue8rAkdDCaG7bM0W9HTx4prPKQUnn-5zC2Sv3spbwBbGF16LjRve6KXv2ChZran91TQEsn1MC57w6BJDfPXZR-5hZzzBoNijs3DMSQkdv4ytB4UUG7f6h5QZKtMEYKwg9p6N1fh8_6EuS/s640/blogger-image--1210781227.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">After a long, slow climb up Baden-Powell, I made it to the summit. The trees up here are incredible!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih83PlocTDqy2RNdK1YF0USWmamYyUw2JHajrUyjlPLTr08kXT5gU_MfW0IAzyMtdF0TYcF0Kou7orQj03QrJ2voq5l-Yko-9XB683Tyr4CYz6Gc6OObhANG_-_Q_jM-AGUFdtwnyEjJCA/s640/blogger-image--800801187.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih83PlocTDqy2RNdK1YF0USWmamYyUw2JHajrUyjlPLTr08kXT5gU_MfW0IAzyMtdF0TYcF0Kou7orQj03QrJ2voq5l-Yko-9XB683Tyr4CYz6Gc6OObhANG_-_Q_jM-AGUFdtwnyEjJCA/s640/blogger-image--800801187.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">This one is dedicated to some Boy Scout founder and us estimated to be 1,500 years old.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVJP4-xm7iqbLG4qFD-M69quiojisoy2v48EdFoCtFDL1yFihQ0IpDfAQfLBkBSTjXDkd9rpzz-5FY8ezIshdKR9LoVeig1IuSjDuB7zruuOLX6FTJoral0SPWznamUNVP8-4b-tnqeDQL/s640/blogger-image-1529418991.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVJP4-xm7iqbLG4qFD-M69quiojisoy2v48EdFoCtFDL1yFihQ0IpDfAQfLBkBSTjXDkd9rpzz-5FY8ezIshdKR9LoVeig1IuSjDuB7zruuOLX6FTJoral0SPWznamUNVP8-4b-tnqeDQL/s640/blogger-image-1529418991.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Here's the summit of Mount Baden-Powell.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9dXUfgT1KkfZ2LrfIwvKAS-9zlN9vSLc1gMMTNcOLXbd_fTgKqSCEM4CuhNVh7Ptt3gIvtXFtOswTwhjlFvvxrkn8CYXW7BOM273hvG7k5iNzxENZuG25GlPfPrwmLC7NTT8Df2lnCj_o/s640/blogger-image-1327037540.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9dXUfgT1KkfZ2LrfIwvKAS-9zlN9vSLc1gMMTNcOLXbd_fTgKqSCEM4CuhNVh7Ptt3gIvtXFtOswTwhjlFvvxrkn8CYXW7BOM273hvG7k5iNzxENZuG25GlPfPrwmLC7NTT8Df2lnCj_o/s640/blogger-image-1327037540.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I can't get over these incredible trees!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhugkT-WJI_gt1uhs_nvWDl4CvRntD-Rkc0IluyI2dNzdy2lPh6taP_YwCpRZkRHTvZG6gb2IR27o9aeokc0iyNbdh9buTeov5Um5s9WfGYaEIco3GMW4H42cIIz21Nljwg5d1EHlBX5lvH/s640/blogger-image--634018164.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhugkT-WJI_gt1uhs_nvWDl4CvRntD-Rkc0IluyI2dNzdy2lPh6taP_YwCpRZkRHTvZG6gb2IR27o9aeokc0iyNbdh9buTeov5Um5s9WfGYaEIco3GMW4H42cIIz21Nljwg5d1EHlBX5lvH/s640/blogger-image--634018164.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Today has been the most beautiful day of the PCT thus far, but also one of the most difficult. I've been feeling down for no particular reason during the past day or so, so I'm just going to accept it, see what it offers, and let it pass...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">..or maybe it's just the excess of pizza, whiskey, and high fructose corn syrup I consumed in the last 24 hours... Whatever.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Look at these pictures of the sunset! This first one is taken looking south towards West Covina and the second is looking southwest towards Glendale.</div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPTQGt5SHNgzsjmODz-_RVs9blCHKrzIYVwCA6Azr0yDize5MVV6t75Z5TJnY_jY0xN7rjF3OgsBRN8uKmadCBjFa36bAviEMcYdXBWkRZ9V3lOMNgR46QCfxAkMUvJunj5yhpfvvgGhbj/s640/blogger-image--358494213.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPTQGt5SHNgzsjmODz-_RVs9blCHKrzIYVwCA6Azr0yDize5MVV6t75Z5TJnY_jY0xN7rjF3OgsBRN8uKmadCBjFa36bAviEMcYdXBWkRZ9V3lOMNgR46QCfxAkMUvJunj5yhpfvvgGhbj/s640/blogger-image--358494213.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtuCJnxyhWQ-XPUqlg_yfxx5M775_eumHPxX5UUPLLiBiGwc62K9Q1lc3pfUf5GWPNqFG1GtL6EGtRXkH4BcjbEH43N08hEo04q2ch8WUOXsNEMmCJ448Yr8d424h_Z-wSE4dY1TdSnbr7/s640/blogger-image--1137993647.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtuCJnxyhWQ-XPUqlg_yfxx5M775_eumHPxX5UUPLLiBiGwc62K9Q1lc3pfUf5GWPNqFG1GtL6EGtRXkH4BcjbEH43N08hEo04q2ch8WUOXsNEMmCJ448Yr8d424h_Z-wSE4dY1TdSnbr7/s640/blogger-image--1137993647.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Day 28</div><div>Miles 383-390, 394-405 (plus 4.9 mile old endangered species detour)</div><div><br></div><div>Last night I camped on a ridge three quarters of a mile before an established campsite. My guidebook said that the established campsite is known for bears, so I decided to set up camp earlier in hopes of avoiding any trouble. </div><div><br></div><div>When I camp alone I'm much more prone to being freaked out at the thought of bears or mountain lions. Having been alone last night, I found myself waking up at every little noise in my camp.</div><div><br></div><div>Today started with a side trip to fill up my water bottles. California section D of the PCT is known for being dry, so I'll have to carry 4 or 5 liters of water for most stretches. That's 8 to 10 pounds of water! Oh well, the extra weight is worth not having to go thirsty.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdrG6FaqoU9vFltXw50yZyhoYby8fOGpNlDrFvgUEtRCMkRV7sd6f98JVwRoc4ZU0I3YDwer70LbvHysnFuTaTyDbf4dHyJWHKBQady8flvFHR50-XhAPZ8TPRK8BBohRtD0IV8r6lyrE3/s640/blogger-image-2122924681.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdrG6FaqoU9vFltXw50yZyhoYby8fOGpNlDrFvgUEtRCMkRV7sd6f98JVwRoc4ZU0I3YDwer70LbvHysnFuTaTyDbf4dHyJWHKBQady8flvFHR50-XhAPZ8TPRK8BBohRtD0IV8r6lyrE3/s640/blogger-image-2122924681.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>After crossing Angeles Crest Highway a few times (I'll cross this highway at least 9 times in this section), I came to the beginning of a detour. The PCT has been closed between mile 390 and 394 for a few years in order to protect the habitat of an endangered toad. There are two ways to get around this section: the new endangered species detour replaces the lost 4 miles with a 20-mile trek on the High Desert Trail, while the old detour involves a 2.7 mile road walk and 2.2 miles of another trail to get back to the PCT. I'm not sure which detour other people are taking (I'm not sure why I rushed out of Wrightwood without asking), but I took the old detour. </div><div><br></div><div>I usually hate road walks, but this one was surprisingly nice. It's Sunday, so people from the cities below were cruising the mountain highway on their motorcycles and in their old sports cars. There was almost always a wide shoulder on the side of the road and I skipped along most of the way. I danced to music in one of my ears and used the alone time to sing at the top of my lungs.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJvWA02GZm52FByWdTiRbUV9-jeVUnizby2nXsoS6eaxKs3SAx8UsyL_jqWr7GXZ-Z9gWNyVbYYVR1_d8zmSlWq6xh6y1Np5RTnIwvrq79oNVmrKWfWUr_sJv6op_qmoeLUAcsgxYdIVl8/s640/blogger-image-619008553.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJvWA02GZm52FByWdTiRbUV9-jeVUnizby2nXsoS6eaxKs3SAx8UsyL_jqWr7GXZ-Z9gWNyVbYYVR1_d8zmSlWq6xh6y1Np5RTnIwvrq79oNVmrKWfWUr_sJv6op_qmoeLUAcsgxYdIVl8/s640/blogger-image-619008553.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>I spent an extra mile or so lost in the Buckhorn Campground, which connects the highway to the alternate trail, back to the PCT. My guidebook says that this campground is known for drugs and violence, but I only saw the drugs. I walked by several cute lesbian couples, a big group of camping hipsters, and one interesting group of college aged kids. The six teenagers had to be on hallucinogens of some kind. The four girls were sitting in a circle, stretching and staring at the trees with wide eyes. The two guys were huddled, maybe more like crouched, over a guitar considering it so intensely that they didn't even notice me walking 3 feet behind them. Funny urban campgrounds.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimaQEoBXxicAeCwBpolqF0HlUCJ25EgkIgn9VoObS2q308p0-gV8pudlntG8IKWuF1uDBqMkh4exkrcLzkuqLDuSxFdUXTAPQKalOWGCMm2rJQtqz04H0PUD7mlL5ZJv9mjT-qlt8zykIg/s640/blogger-image-823111537.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimaQEoBXxicAeCwBpolqF0HlUCJ25EgkIgn9VoObS2q308p0-gV8pudlntG8IKWuF1uDBqMkh4exkrcLzkuqLDuSxFdUXTAPQKalOWGCMm2rJQtqz04H0PUD7mlL5ZJv9mjT-qlt8zykIg/s640/blogger-image-823111537.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">It got really hot in the middle of the day, so I spent some time cooling my feet in one of the last big creeks that I'll see for a while.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1L8qnl8ExggmmS9urWj78DzVwS1fGfzk6LORScsVSTeIe6T-Xd82m_JsTzFTZyR2Xsyff3brnZEI9oQLK1vC9sW8iHHRHIxEFU1x-uhw-IGcdWusHwcnTgaNz3eEwLxQygmxbddQ8R_IN/s640/blogger-image-1833300094.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1L8qnl8ExggmmS9urWj78DzVwS1fGfzk6LORScsVSTeIe6T-Xd82m_JsTzFTZyR2Xsyff3brnZEI9oQLK1vC9sW8iHHRHIxEFU1x-uhw-IGcdWusHwcnTgaNz3eEwLxQygmxbddQ8R_IN/s640/blogger-image-1833300094.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Did I mention how much I love breaks?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh562gBbo8WI4O0dgzAd7tyZO9xgX9JHC3uQV4vrRPCk-mq1H1m1FNZOUMgzNWnRgHH5IMs8cueDGngm4uhIGYTKnUJGMyci7nSgDW8bDZOb7HOzJyvsYqsPfZHSdrchgnEutIHpHDGc_jq/s640/blogger-image-745295697.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh562gBbo8WI4O0dgzAd7tyZO9xgX9JHC3uQV4vrRPCk-mq1H1m1FNZOUMgzNWnRgHH5IMs8cueDGngm4uhIGYTKnUJGMyci7nSgDW8bDZOb7HOzJyvsYqsPfZHSdrchgnEutIHpHDGc_jq/s640/blogger-image-745295697.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Today I hit 400 miles! Yesssss!</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh12JD7-MegKLwmK2g_6J3QUVEuApZ3n_RCaop-OsxA3ohFkk75wpzRR6NYfadH8Y4dCtoBvhTo0fHNJuFk86-OSl77PSugQBHbiw9uV3oQXx_mFTmuJpTVLLrn8_UvA4fTrkbehQKoh7G2/s640/blogger-image-80181750.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh12JD7-MegKLwmK2g_6J3QUVEuApZ3n_RCaop-OsxA3ohFkk75wpzRR6NYfadH8Y4dCtoBvhTo0fHNJuFk86-OSl77PSugQBHbiw9uV3oQXx_mFTmuJpTVLLrn8_UvA4fTrkbehQKoh7G2/s640/blogger-image-80181750.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>I stopped for dinner a mile or so before camp. When I got to the roadside parking lot a woman was just getting out of the bathroom. She asked if I was a thru-hiker and got really excited when I said that I am. She yelled to her family across the parking lot, "IT'S A THRU HIKER! HE HAS A TRAIL NAME! HIS NAME IS GLITTER!" She told me about her plans to hike the PCT in the future as I pulled out my dinner of steak-flavored rice. I wanted to ask her if she had a soda, but I didn't. I don't want to play the desperate PCT hiker too often, but Jesus Christ, I've been craving Pepsi so badly.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxk17dXTLjlBkSZe6-kTPbq-EeE3kzjrBXhP7u0stKYiqce9CSw0GUJ6o90Gg6a0kwJOoQGKodqQBPe3cRrdhNUJQYt0PXA4HO6PJKlhg19smRRVe8kSFKj6P5H5qnGiQbPmDTJnM2PnTP/s640/blogger-image-1624153019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxk17dXTLjlBkSZe6-kTPbq-EeE3kzjrBXhP7u0stKYiqce9CSw0GUJ6o90Gg6a0kwJOoQGKodqQBPe3cRrdhNUJQYt0PXA4HO6PJKlhg19smRRVe8kSFKj6P5H5qnGiQbPmDTJnM2PnTP/s640/blogger-image-1624153019.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>After dinner I immediately walked into dense poodle-dog bush. I'll take another detour or two tomorrow just to get around this nasty stuff. For now, I'm setting up camp early so I don't have to navigate poodle-dog bush in the dark. </div><div><br></div><div>Three more days until I pick up my new socks at the Saufley's. I'm going to miss my current pair, they never loose the shape of my feet and they have been pure gold in preventing blisters, but there's a hole the size of a sand dollar in one so they need to be replaced.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidHr2Cn7w37LvD6SOoYRHROSOfCCeR1KoovLR9gkcY1j-sOESp4PcosjwjpW8qwAeyZzeEACM-FdhFTuQ4Xcq3RXzpiD4RH7E0Sr8cVDyAEaeKwHp0XgEFY_Nd6SfFzMxuTpI2X5tJAW8o/s640/blogger-image-1237483243.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidHr2Cn7w37LvD6SOoYRHROSOfCCeR1KoovLR9gkcY1j-sOESp4PcosjwjpW8qwAeyZzeEACM-FdhFTuQ4Xcq3RXzpiD4RH7E0Sr8cVDyAEaeKwHp0XgEFY_Nd6SfFzMxuTpI2X5tJAW8o/s640/blogger-image-1237483243.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Day 29</div><div>Miles 405-431</div><div><br></div><div>I've developed an itchy heat rash on my back, my feet hurt, I'm alone, and I feel like a TOTAL BAD ASS. </div><div><br></div><div>Today was tough. I'm absolutely loving this experience, but it's really hard work. The morning was hot and my body didn't get into the rhythym of walking very quickly. I make my body walk anyway because food, fuel, and water are limited. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLgibPGeQCc3DB5SZUoYjPBVUZ19zFsG3B6zayrvX4du_YUxv8zm6pYoGYOzChVbQjo7qU1pWNAffZPLKaJqaebSmpNw5MPLuU7eDVewOnryHGagn8kmPKJfe989VS-OycHJ8xbKQ0ViRm/s640/blogger-image--1210937575.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLgibPGeQCc3DB5SZUoYjPBVUZ19zFsG3B6zayrvX4du_YUxv8zm6pYoGYOzChVbQjo7qU1pWNAffZPLKaJqaebSmpNw5MPLuU7eDVewOnryHGagn8kmPKJfe989VS-OycHJ8xbKQ0ViRm/s640/blogger-image--1210937575.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">There were supposed to be two detours today to skip the worst of the poodle-dog bush. I missed the first detour. Then I got lost in a forest of fallen trees and had to slide down a hill, dodging the poodle-dog until I got back on the trail. Oops! The first 14 miles of the day felt like an obstacle course; I'd barely make it through a patch of poodle-dog when I'd come around the corner to find an even bigger patch. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfB-zWJIxtN0R3Hu9t6grbYRFfClIMhEMta8C1MRTRiB0dR8aEMPvNY31lEK1MZPLosy0VuZhEeI7GhDWV6zFRrIUPDjwjwNU47Mr1N1yyq5L6r7xTPSPlEsyOk0vwct2kESfChhehhkhC/s640/blogger-image-49921202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfB-zWJIxtN0R3Hu9t6grbYRFfClIMhEMta8C1MRTRiB0dR8aEMPvNY31lEK1MZPLosy0VuZhEeI7GhDWV6zFRrIUPDjwjwNU47Mr1N1yyq5L6r7xTPSPlEsyOk0vwct2kESfChhehhkhC/s640/blogger-image-49921202.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">This area was burned in the Station Fire in 2009. The fire even killed two firefighters when it burned the fire station near the top of Mount Gleason. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD8RirYoJzXtI3k6JwKMJK5RccJKk3W8UGDIA8MtoqWjBEJk20y5NhJdnlu7W_4oGPrcLCEfbDUIToX0QQfNIM0ueYihpI-rS0T9_AuJ3pleMg04Vp7o3TwnteGTNYjqsHWaKsbLZot3P9/s640/blogger-image-1106716881.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD8RirYoJzXtI3k6JwKMJK5RccJKk3W8UGDIA8MtoqWjBEJk20y5NhJdnlu7W_4oGPrcLCEfbDUIToX0QQfNIM0ueYihpI-rS0T9_AuJ3pleMg04Vp7o3TwnteGTNYjqsHWaKsbLZot3P9/s640/blogger-image-1106716881.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Around mile 16 I went off-trail to get water from a roadside picnic area. A construction worker nearby told me that four or five other hikers were resting at the fire station, so I walked across the street and found Ninja Tank and the Fellowship. The Fellowship is composed of four guys who I first met at Fuller Ridge. They gave me a Pepsi that Ninja Tank's mother had dropped off and I sat in the shade, basked in the carbonated goodness and rested my feet. Soda!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">After a short break I started on the 10-mile, road walk detour around the rest of the Station Fire burn area. I almost stepped on a snake, but thankfully he was already dead.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxzl_rbdy_cRmHXmtyjl2WgSRWhlUEyKX2K3LqFcQ2sJXhICogWF3T4QHXWwhQUg_REbb8ajmGE_Fmbwjmomr6zM-PYu9bfh5gQoPSUMYf_oDjxusOVmWTvy9dGFoq7hmYRH0DuR4LDAT1/s640/blogger-image--1684904916.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxzl_rbdy_cRmHXmtyjl2WgSRWhlUEyKX2K3LqFcQ2sJXhICogWF3T4QHXWwhQUg_REbb8ajmGE_Fmbwjmomr6zM-PYu9bfh5gQoPSUMYf_oDjxusOVmWTvy9dGFoq7hmYRH0DuR4LDAT1/s640/blogger-image--1684904916.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Walking on pavement makes all of the muscles in my feet, calves, and butt ten times as sore as usual. The road got really steep and went on forever, but the view was spectacular so I put in my headphones and danced my way up the mountain.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-8MCUmoybx7IobC0FahkVAQLmJ1_SvD3RLhfRI3jZfdISEe8jc0esz56of5AOBxsDqFiJjb375cdSxuBuZwHNiM36E8fCygGKvHTkPTuT3blkSIkCxwpTHbwlq79kvHelZDU-4u1pLYmW/s640/blogger-image--1510234914.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-8MCUmoybx7IobC0FahkVAQLmJ1_SvD3RLhfRI3jZfdISEe8jc0esz56of5AOBxsDqFiJjb375cdSxuBuZwHNiM36E8fCygGKvHTkPTuT3blkSIkCxwpTHbwlq79kvHelZDU-4u1pLYmW/s640/blogger-image--1510234914.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">For those of you who are curious, I'm directly north of Los Angeles right now. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz4TlJJ_KBwfSxqoPEMzskI1MZsdkOExaDv9vCnOXlzu89-vBlzy_9y6j6Xio1Uo89wcEWW0NwZMel3CNnHMXrNldqSuEYyXv0qRXuB-rUO3BNqDzYUNkbTEnLGAT5v8mtVyh1bG4HW5b6/s640/blogger-image-1993199453.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz4TlJJ_KBwfSxqoPEMzskI1MZsdkOExaDv9vCnOXlzu89-vBlzy_9y6j6Xio1Uo89wcEWW0NwZMel3CNnHMXrNldqSuEYyXv0qRXuB-rUO3BNqDzYUNkbTEnLGAT5v8mtVyh1bG4HW5b6/s640/blogger-image-1993199453.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">As the road ascended from the Mill Creek fire station at the bottom of Mount Gleason to the peak, I passed the memorial to the firefighters who died in the Station Fire. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUAj0wOYWsT8rKAHQO9iwRXVMzIk872UZC4c1rz6PLFobg6Za_4dGs9MulSpEY-FW8f1MzoxVx8GzZQoilKYtlW5q9nxE21KmP1cBvDud0apMLKFHDo4GNjlgK3VXBwuTtipQnYVd6lJZF/s640/blogger-image-8395169.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUAj0wOYWsT8rKAHQO9iwRXVMzIk872UZC4c1rz6PLFobg6Za_4dGs9MulSpEY-FW8f1MzoxVx8GzZQoilKYtlW5q9nxE21KmP1cBvDud0apMLKFHDo4GNjlgK3VXBwuTtipQnYVd6lJZF/s640/blogger-image-8395169.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Right off trail you can actually walk into the old burnt fire station. Seeing the station was an odd experience; everything seemed to be preserved in the same place it had been before the fire. The basketball court and barbecue had melted and through the windows I could see burned out furniture filling the rooms. Charred trees have fallen into the building and poodle-dog bush has overtaken every spot of dirt.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnw1OZzegoN7ac1pYNeAWPO8Vcpeo8E45sZ9Yls7aOvLuikuFo_8z76yIZ3EziLhcD9PbyPWsisaoj9VGnD55va7NfjBn87V_tu47Ru2ym0sAjPIQyI2q2eF3rhYSMpnB30TUw7B9KJ-df/s640/blogger-image--1896837255.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnw1OZzegoN7ac1pYNeAWPO8Vcpeo8E45sZ9Yls7aOvLuikuFo_8z76yIZ3EziLhcD9PbyPWsisaoj9VGnD55va7NfjBn87V_tu47Ru2ym0sAjPIQyI2q2eF3rhYSMpnB30TUw7B9KJ-df/s640/blogger-image--1896837255.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqhgykawRcco6p-OGp_HZaY6x-dcZANNHP2kizSUR1VgK435A5iFAiSJa-XhN_5gP8yW3lZCyt_Wj-Nsr_RBYAVBGRLQSbM-gS38HHPzU-MnCyU7hjrXFcPxu5QgNOM5ebj4clu1gRGLEu/s640/blogger-image-1797455401.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqhgykawRcco6p-OGp_HZaY6x-dcZANNHP2kizSUR1VgK435A5iFAiSJa-XhN_5gP8yW3lZCyt_Wj-Nsr_RBYAVBGRLQSbM-gS38HHPzU-MnCyU7hjrXFcPxu5QgNOM5ebj4clu1gRGLEu/s640/blogger-image-1797455401.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Back on the road, which was now dirt, I continued up the mountain.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXohBrSM2iYAy0UNRNUb4Zn7podmZ24SeEqGYZE3vb4iQ0bWQDpSf6Y9BquVlHnm6OA_gWAEcl3ivSpsfYKBYu6PxfQX6_fHMrpI08iKZd3LMLM7Z5SVewnqeZUHpKO6LZJjf1BgkNFfG_/s640/blogger-image--981392713.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXohBrSM2iYAy0UNRNUb4Zn7podmZ24SeEqGYZE3vb4iQ0bWQDpSf6Y9BquVlHnm6OA_gWAEcl3ivSpsfYKBYu6PxfQX6_fHMrpI08iKZd3LMLM7Z5SVewnqeZUHpKO6LZJjf1BgkNFfG_/s640/blogger-image--981392713.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">26 miles later, I arrived at the camp right after Ninja Tank and before the Fellowship. This day has felt so long. I can't wait to curl up in my amazing new tent and rest until I do it all again tomorrow. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKMG2qmqbYY_Xavl0odn-fXdL7qW3-AbqdbDqhWCKVtYm75dsTPLDq8MKxxwcCa9WCulXhCe6Je43Xdn5wcnrNFffJloyALjPvmnZ7RkU5xDC846GtWrMET_momiBX2-v04YLUUYyjIrb5/s640/blogger-image--1154937435.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKMG2qmqbYY_Xavl0odn-fXdL7qW3-AbqdbDqhWCKVtYm75dsTPLDq8MKxxwcCa9WCulXhCe6Je43Xdn5wcnrNFffJloyALjPvmnZ7RkU5xDC846GtWrMET_momiBX2-v04YLUUYyjIrb5/s640/blogger-image--1154937435.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Day 30</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">431-454</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Today I descend from Mt Gleason into Agua Dulce, where cold drinks and hot showers await. Even more than the food, I'm excited to see who else is taking a zero day at the Saufley's. Maybe I'll catch up with Jolly or Miles. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Today was cloudy all day, which is always a welcome surprise out here in these exposed burn areas. The lack of sunshine was a perk in a day full of poodle-dog.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXV0-fDPXdFdWUq22nFRr_ZPG3bZ_y1RhO7USvZIJqJwDkDmROhM4rIAEYSSJvCvGt0YlyCh8fPI-Fb5KU8FcOi3t1e70pG-54wygDXQUph5Km-KPlvKxl-5MlK74zJRGmUr5RJWSKAZ7X/s640/blogger-image-110759113.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXV0-fDPXdFdWUq22nFRr_ZPG3bZ_y1RhO7USvZIJqJwDkDmROhM4rIAEYSSJvCvGt0YlyCh8fPI-Fb5KU8FcOi3t1e70pG-54wygDXQUph5Km-KPlvKxl-5MlK74zJRGmUr5RJWSKAZ7X/s640/blogger-image-110759113.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I'm pretty sure today is my last day battling with poodle dog (please god let it be so), but it was also the worst. It often felt like the plant was making an effort to rub against my foot or arm or backpack.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNhuucb6mm4oYPxGQ6KgiaNMJxEaBErpSi0hP73nl2m9XgqyXmL2nHctz2TgyP73s6HAegECuSGHIkqqte_6azLEazXa8YurXlxlCLAT_ZhuHup9Hc9_r4OqEIRHW2IARdT4EVdeliwSUB/s640/blogger-image--219117842.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNhuucb6mm4oYPxGQ6KgiaNMJxEaBErpSi0hP73nl2m9XgqyXmL2nHctz2TgyP73s6HAegECuSGHIkqqte_6azLEazXa8YurXlxlCLAT_ZhuHup9Hc9_r4OqEIRHW2IARdT4EVdeliwSUB/s640/blogger-image--219117842.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Sometimes I'd be looking down, watching my feet, and I wouldn't notice that another sneaky poodle dog had reached it's feelers into the trail at eye level.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhniRuOKK7uUreDtIoeffu-Z7jvcHBk2k8TbzYP0tkb3ZDVzsKKrU9zebPZXYAkGFrn26mlZwCVzD2Xcy8Q_4p4okQrZl_P_OXjIHFAn4-ssUIcE3THIs1dVZTZ1WYXvDBt3U5Pi6zZatTD/s640/blogger-image-1348270012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhniRuOKK7uUreDtIoeffu-Z7jvcHBk2k8TbzYP0tkb3ZDVzsKKrU9zebPZXYAkGFrn26mlZwCVzD2Xcy8Q_4p4okQrZl_P_OXjIHFAn4-ssUIcE3THIs1dVZTZ1WYXvDBt3U5Pi6zZatTD/s640/blogger-image-1348270012.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>After getting out of the station fire burn zone, the terrain opened up and I could often see the trail for miles in front of me.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinJ8cjQcggbsJ9ZgGUl5Zt_AkeZbS5QyYrE2F1ftwxy2-eWoHubqXRGfhqXO4poT1_uGc5M0YbApXUAWrUZ7JqgWwnZyE_xOyc0H9Yag6SfC2H_pJJEoA8lrUbpvy6FC84SauCcRGgyr2E/s640/blogger-image-345529629.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinJ8cjQcggbsJ9ZgGUl5Zt_AkeZbS5QyYrE2F1ftwxy2-eWoHubqXRGfhqXO4poT1_uGc5M0YbApXUAWrUZ7JqgWwnZyE_xOyc0H9Yag6SfC2H_pJJEoA8lrUbpvy6FC84SauCcRGgyr2E/s640/blogger-image-345529629.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Another day of hiking alone and I'm happy. Lonely, heat rashed, and happy.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiNinaCu_10nIqRfOrQvn0ic4BsWMOq7wZtXu7IHmj6dRO_P_NBBawsNxKkQ2A5YZ79IPZ9zmTWhC_1ve8wTGlhFTkYRXZvff9STuMY9pEIE30m2x0NjTdfEZfk1O4k7zoMTYhzfoIAxl8/s640/blogger-image--1590797227.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiNinaCu_10nIqRfOrQvn0ic4BsWMOq7wZtXu7IHmj6dRO_P_NBBawsNxKkQ2A5YZ79IPZ9zmTWhC_1ve8wTGlhFTkYRXZvff9STuMY9pEIE30m2x0NjTdfEZfk1O4k7zoMTYhzfoIAxl8/s640/blogger-image--1590797227.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>I passed under highway 14 about ten miles before Agua Dulce. Highways are gross.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhih9b7kL7DsGJ8820tjC6hxHprnYsn_818L_P9o242ITCzz0b1xmDRIlL9vz9iyXbMxS2-Nm1912nME9Z7QGvDhN8XEjiXCpAPCaAYkpteTPG7r_FEs5yAdede97R1f8Lhmyp0yjNtn_PF/s640/blogger-image-1473343536.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhih9b7kL7DsGJ8820tjC6hxHprnYsn_818L_P9o242ITCzz0b1xmDRIlL9vz9iyXbMxS2-Nm1912nME9Z7QGvDhN8XEjiXCpAPCaAYkpteTPG7r_FEs5yAdede97R1f8Lhmyp0yjNtn_PF/s640/blogger-image-1473343536.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>I also passed a Metrolink going from Lancaster to Los Angeles. I smiled and waved at the passengers, who looked at me with curiosity.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-5XojOr9nsk-uAp7oJB5Ivvc42UmEYSj3BxUuLGf89yzQOgMsd9pSwYepdQ-nnjMcC25IlKGgNjkrUoMoFXDXcIbEJgVJ9OnGVSGHlBVm73ajCEvbQcf__irLnWr_mgM59IEstMRifr1M/s640/blogger-image--824914207.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-5XojOr9nsk-uAp7oJB5Ivvc42UmEYSj3BxUuLGf89yzQOgMsd9pSwYepdQ-nnjMcC25IlKGgNjkrUoMoFXDXcIbEJgVJ9OnGVSGHlBVm73ajCEvbQcf__irLnWr_mgM59IEstMRifr1M/s640/blogger-image--824914207.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">In the last 7 miles the sky darkened and it began to rain. My first PCT rain! It only lasted for a minute or two and I stood still, feeling the warm rain on my face.</div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijT5cs3VjRJvq7xsNDEk4mJMjWrnoxHI1KEihv60dKM_7R1jhr5CDaaJVB22TdWuQrgWf62AEGUTcwBSPQraO0yIJtXlaymkQEaJBR_eGR_BFD6w-uSulzj2Zwdb22Lo37r4ATssUlFWSY/s640/blogger-image-341348126.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijT5cs3VjRJvq7xsNDEk4mJMjWrnoxHI1KEihv60dKM_7R1jhr5CDaaJVB22TdWuQrgWf62AEGUTcwBSPQraO0yIJtXlaymkQEaJBR_eGR_BFD6w-uSulzj2Zwdb22Lo37r4ATssUlFWSY/s640/blogger-image-341348126.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Once I reached the valley floor all of the poodle dog bush had turned into wild flowers. Entire hillsides were covered in golden poppies and I discovered this beauty right next to the trail. Anyone know what it is? It came in white, yellow, orange, and this light red. It looks like a poppy, but grows on it's own and not in clumps like the golden poppies I know from childhood.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxNWnz1T70285-_foICxH5EVhLzk-WFuf5RZ3hM71TPvwaV-r9KZoqJI76xZ81j1L_S7Jp8j5Ppt991GdCWbhGbpbGAPhcTr_EibK1ikY8kBEFzCsBgDa8PUbiI3nj-Zpav1_q5SFcvDF6/s640/blogger-image--1558288671.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxNWnz1T70285-_foICxH5EVhLzk-WFuf5RZ3hM71TPvwaV-r9KZoqJI76xZ81j1L_S7Jp8j5Ppt991GdCWbhGbpbGAPhcTr_EibK1ikY8kBEFzCsBgDa8PUbiI3nj-Zpav1_q5SFcvDF6/s640/blogger-image--1558288671.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">A few miles later through a tunnel, up over a daytime picnic area, and down the main street of Agua Dulce, I arrived at the Saufley's. While getting a tour of their hiker amenities (more to come on that tomorrow) I found Jolly, Jolly's friends he had been trying to catch up with, Miles, Nature & Legs, and a whole bunch of other friends. It's nice to be in the company of other hikers again.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSnN9VVhQy7ipfBidXf6zAx4C6GFFmXrpjQJG5tMXyBT1VnRlEewcaLnSFmNdVnoiBSAOII-Jt548ZRYdcMTGAXFrvGezrx6DBEroly5XG88UX4CdzJOQgHgt_uGFE0XVzLDCaZ-8dXsaa/s640/blogger-image-1620238713.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSnN9VVhQy7ipfBidXf6zAx4C6GFFmXrpjQJG5tMXyBT1VnRlEewcaLnSFmNdVnoiBSAOII-Jt548ZRYdcMTGAXFrvGezrx6DBEroly5XG88UX4CdzJOQgHgt_uGFE0XVzLDCaZ-8dXsaa/s640/blogger-image-1620238713.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I spent the night drinking beer, eating meatloaf, watching movies, and chatting with everyone about dry, dirty, detour-y section D. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Day 31</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Miles: None</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Zero day! Miles and I rode into town this morning for breakfast at the Sweetwater Cafe. I didn't have energy to go into town last night, so this was my first town meal in Agua Dulce. The waitress asked us to sign the banner out front.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjt0dtFDMX6_qzrvXY9hgmGAluRF739O_4WKX97h3k3HuFnSVCJkvg3fKfefejhlhk5sIdmgqp4CtMznkzpOr1_QQaiUWfe_v30lfjyrqBmNY136l6LJsjOHQrszY6NmtA-v-fz3Ss-1TJ/s640/blogger-image--410505722.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjt0dtFDMX6_qzrvXY9hgmGAluRF739O_4WKX97h3k3HuFnSVCJkvg3fKfefejhlhk5sIdmgqp4CtMznkzpOr1_QQaiUWfe_v30lfjyrqBmNY136l6LJsjOHQrszY6NmtA-v-fz3Ss-1TJ/s640/blogger-image--410505722.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; clear: both;">I spent all day today recovering at the Saufley's. The Saufley's have extended their home to hikers, dedicating their entire garage and backyard to everything a hiker could want. When I showed up yesterday I was immediately greeted by a volunteer who gave me a big towel and loaner clothes from bins in the driveway. He led me around the yard showing me which cots were free, where I could pick up my packages, where to put my dirty laundry (Mrs. Saufley does the laundry and welcomes special instructions), where to shower, and how to get into town. They even have a fleet of bikes ready to ride the one mile into the little town.</div><div class="separator" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOG1hiDrSpR1UE4PxXH9e5ufh1vyQJhp-ONfKVZNPdV1svaHLkiAGWr-2NuGVwZH294LfJpsfdJ09yFBra65UOkyIcXPsSz0o8oqMYdESiD1NZ0YVdJhIYJCA3iZ4MfK871PzyuEKxrxBa/s640/blogger-image--1888057905.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOG1hiDrSpR1UE4PxXH9e5ufh1vyQJhp-ONfKVZNPdV1svaHLkiAGWr-2NuGVwZH294LfJpsfdJ09yFBra65UOkyIcXPsSz0o8oqMYdESiD1NZ0YVdJhIYJCA3iZ4MfK871PzyuEKxrxBa/s640/blogger-image--1888057905.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; clear: both;">Back to the Saufley's...</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdQx5XDoZiJrTFkcs8WaJQKGTQE83bDsK0x9IbDXpbvt6mxfAS4aODJsbqDP6RUGaAIhxg-k2hBo0-4Lhr1t4_71VfysiqHgSCV7mryVnMlbt3dfMSSuriUKqtHy8E6kdvhro6BiwyB6oe/s640/blogger-image--1985374594.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdQx5XDoZiJrTFkcs8WaJQKGTQE83bDsK0x9IbDXpbvt6mxfAS4aODJsbqDP6RUGaAIhxg-k2hBo0-4Lhr1t4_71VfysiqHgSCV7mryVnMlbt3dfMSSuriUKqtHy8E6kdvhro6BiwyB6oe/s640/blogger-image--1985374594.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The shower is part of a two bedroom mobile home, completely dedicated to hikers.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSBvvswC2z6tKaJuuweB4ny1A-iNnzqWpSJPDFIm_6Jqa0pcQBJEMWR9Mxb5YbvLd1PeYQbBy-pBPDUZXPg3Klw8AUnWtm9DDjBpxiHiCZL0mkVDK5L8xENSJgwCLu3rcE6czkFuzrri2L/s640/blogger-image--1673905174.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSBvvswC2z6tKaJuuweB4ny1A-iNnzqWpSJPDFIm_6Jqa0pcQBJEMWR9Mxb5YbvLd1PeYQbBy-pBPDUZXPg3Klw8AUnWtm9DDjBpxiHiCZL0mkVDK5L8xENSJgwCLu3rcE6czkFuzrri2L/s640/blogger-image--1673905174.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipkpawJDPRnGeO-XXIdJtiyyQstH5HJBevGl-M2Bvhi9tcSpwxAlR2TaRVdeQ94NBMqES8IsAOk6q2LiM2lEq78rVK8WOJMrgdGSoKSv9qmIg-SBPOJPFpjpDpP1peJh_AR0jHSxd9F9LI/s640/blogger-image--454467493.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipkpawJDPRnGeO-XXIdJtiyyQstH5HJBevGl-M2Bvhi9tcSpwxAlR2TaRVdeQ94NBMqES8IsAOk6q2LiM2lEq78rVK8WOJMrgdGSoKSv9qmIg-SBPOJPFpjpDpP1peJh_AR0jHSxd9F9LI/s640/blogger-image--454467493.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">One of the volunteers drove a few of us into town to resupply at Walmart. Aren't these folks INCREDIBLE? I bought food for the next 5-day section and cheap white wine for right now.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUy1hC5EkkA5K9xRZCEum4HSR03Mn6ufULi8VdewMm_9l4-gwB_9qND_4TGwdZ1iPlw6GQH3jdqpCjoHqtDrDpXYLfcoA9IN3kyxGHwKPOWLtBV448m3w-3Yy8wzgoBfTYDJamS2WzLjV2/s640/blogger-image-857532245.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUy1hC5EkkA5K9xRZCEum4HSR03Mn6ufULi8VdewMm_9l4-gwB_9qND_4TGwdZ1iPlw6GQH3jdqpCjoHqtDrDpXYLfcoA9IN3kyxGHwKPOWLtBV448m3w-3Yy8wzgoBfTYDJamS2WzLjV2/s640/blogger-image-857532245.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The rest of the day I organized my food, drank wine, napped, ate Mexican food, and napped again. <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Tomorrow will be a bigger day. I'm planning on sleeping in, then waiting for the heat of the day to pass before I join Miles for 15 miles or so of hiking. The next day we're at another trail angel's house, the Anderson's (AKA hippie daycare). Bring it on section E!</span></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860000285673806917.post-11458909437236672592014-05-03T10:40:00.001-07:002014-05-03T10:40:49.921-07:00PCT Days 23-26<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Day 23</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Miles 292-308</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Today Jolly and I passed the 300 mile mark. This is officially the longest hike I've ever taken!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb777Mka3D5iqKlnFSM0iAiapCrQFKdmLpXBYLacRfX5B7c3s1_dDvSIECHtACoMkB4ZEMauNae5T7AcIvkeWFbeqHd1hL9z0ONIy3NiHxPU-h3CCZBwPgB9toTFMHqR0glEu7ZvecMh22/s640/blogger-image-555596311.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb777Mka3D5iqKlnFSM0iAiapCrQFKdmLpXBYLacRfX5B7c3s1_dDvSIECHtACoMkB4ZEMauNae5T7AcIvkeWFbeqHd1hL9z0ONIy3NiHxPU-h3CCZBwPgB9toTFMHqR0glEu7ZvecMh22/s640/blogger-image-555596311.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE4BmbeoT6FozAqQBZaLJvEuVQ1TM6CRCYzyWljOtgnZ9e4mwKGpOpPDr2JR1_-9CG8bIIU2QfWINn0UD2SkS0BbDkIjWz0kG0PcIoJX55ym5s-jmTxoFistoj0HvwsfjHGZ4mrNkOF3md/s640/blogger-image-999791488.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE4BmbeoT6FozAqQBZaLJvEuVQ1TM6CRCYzyWljOtgnZ9e4mwKGpOpPDr2JR1_-9CG8bIIU2QfWINn0UD2SkS0BbDkIjWz0kG0PcIoJX55ym5s-jmTxoFistoj0HvwsfjHGZ4mrNkOF3md/s640/blogger-image-999791488.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5o0jY3hl-Kr-H1NdS0aXh1NbxqT-FtKM2ro-8W1OKWPKkBv3MSAyTlCENeaVVtHWeGdhh7QYNKQCis4v46gzLEGtVQyR0hSLf6OcYGTtHkQOMT8SIdI_wMaJfuYJJmL3qsIQSoLPi3M6B/s640/blogger-image--1249295884.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5o0jY3hl-Kr-H1NdS0aXh1NbxqT-FtKM2ro-8W1OKWPKkBv3MSAyTlCENeaVVtHWeGdhh7QYNKQCis4v46gzLEGtVQyR0hSLf6OcYGTtHkQOMT8SIdI_wMaJfuYJJmL3qsIQSoLPi3M6B/s640/blogger-image--1249295884.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Around lunch we passed Deep Creek, which was cold, clear and, by far, the largest river we've come across thus far.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheKBguFcsDslms-R4owNsQDJg2LSem0kVCeVAwZ-UmdSYNSBuniv_axw5Pm2zkho7IyX3AN6_b5HSy1nwcD8UdUaKU8AjOHBELeyQso-TOlX01lWOAKi94TzQS_M3kQse5_Ay15NgoXGlv/s640/blogger-image-354968654.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheKBguFcsDslms-R4owNsQDJg2LSem0kVCeVAwZ-UmdSYNSBuniv_axw5Pm2zkho7IyX3AN6_b5HSy1nwcD8UdUaKU8AjOHBELeyQso-TOlX01lWOAKi94TzQS_M3kQse5_Ay15NgoXGlv/s640/blogger-image-354968654.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMaqd-UiHRNkK1aVTkalAIN7LyFwWFBYaiYxGBJCj-IHvi5WezaIehqozHidIekvtFZTxtc2qlY6lWNAu5frc-kOgPnGDFawsDQioQgS8AgoELZpKuPr2m05oDYykMYJZNgw0RNQstU7vn/s640/blogger-image-151145357.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMaqd-UiHRNkK1aVTkalAIN7LyFwWFBYaiYxGBJCj-IHvi5WezaIehqozHidIekvtFZTxtc2qlY6lWNAu5frc-kOgPnGDFawsDQioQgS8AgoELZpKuPr2m05oDYykMYJZNgw0RNQstU7vn/s640/blogger-image-151145357.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFpVTP97FxNsJzPAyJAPGa0TaxCo67PyQMG6bsLTXMg2pAaGUBb4IgbtWs_E-9yzwbaNMVvZ_1I1i5OMYWCiz5JZsA76kI-VFPc9g3jDof2WZTIqcBq3nZLPq_zJ3I6zKjJSxmoQ61rIY4/s640/blogger-image--1720415748.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFpVTP97FxNsJzPAyJAPGa0TaxCo67PyQMG6bsLTXMg2pAaGUBb4IgbtWs_E-9yzwbaNMVvZ_1I1i5OMYWCiz5JZsA76kI-VFPc9g3jDof2WZTIqcBq3nZLPq_zJ3I6zKjJSxmoQ61rIY4/s640/blogger-image--1720415748.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We stopped at a spot called Deep Creek hot springs for the night. We went swimming in the hot water, laughed under the trees with hordes of other hikers, and even skinny dipped in the moonlight. I tried to get a picture of the springs, I really did, but the resident naked hippy boys were always in the springs and didn't seem to want their pictures taken. I saw about four or five guys that seem to live at the hotsprings; one plays the guitar, one smokes, and one wears a grass loin cloth and calls himself Tarzan. A few hikers mistook Tarzan for me and we all got a laugh out of that.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Day 24</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; clear: both;">Miles 308-330</div><div class="separator" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Here's the only picture I was able to snap of the beach surrounding the hotsprings. I thought I could get a picture or two before anyone else was awake, but apparently naked hippy boys get up really early.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYABS0J4ckssFApkycbteQzfbVSSPvCF5O3u0wUr7ILLMm-LEYOVJY2OsDZfe0RyHk3e1ooNCpSNItbS_ncumVvuGEkMUUaHTiVn5YI15D9pxTW3EZgbj4YBjUitcu-QwZwtZgL82jiyNa/s640/blogger-image--282375171.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYABS0J4ckssFApkycbteQzfbVSSPvCF5O3u0wUr7ILLMm-LEYOVJY2OsDZfe0RyHk3e1ooNCpSNItbS_ncumVvuGEkMUUaHTiVn5YI15D9pxTW3EZgbj4YBjUitcu-QwZwtZgL82jiyNa/s640/blogger-image--282375171.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Today we started hiking in mountains and eventually came out near a water treatment plant outside of Hesperia. I lost Jolly along the way (he chugged 20oz of coffee in the morning and buzzed ahead) and I haven't seen him since. I know he's been trying to catch up with old friends for the last few weeks, so I hope he found them.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho7qLixgOBzbUGAwGYNk_845ZcYrFtTqVfry7U0b4R5jpx-ES8NRGym1N91mlDCthLpFpzrT86MAvzZQC1ZnldDS-MLixF5q-UxCW_ih8Udk4Z6nxjWDkcVduCtON0dklVNfmUd1bZ6BX4/s640/blogger-image--1946743905.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho7qLixgOBzbUGAwGYNk_845ZcYrFtTqVfry7U0b4R5jpx-ES8NRGym1N91mlDCthLpFpzrT86MAvzZQC1ZnldDS-MLixF5q-UxCW_ih8Udk4Z6nxjWDkcVduCtON0dklVNfmUd1bZ6BX4/s640/blogger-image--1946743905.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div><div>Then, to my surprise, there was WATER. I was hiking alone, so I had my lunch on the beach. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgboC1mqcP5sHdfs3ZOy5HszVEK6v9iKKVSSOX0GFe4wx57ap7YUxdcDAhNR4ZVHbpvuysWQyNtCr5pQVcXLbIKXEmlXbKfQe2gM5bO7bs-IffvQRTqzGoCBHxcabhu-3poj0IlvLi-QDkt/s640/blogger-image--614769275.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgboC1mqcP5sHdfs3ZOy5HszVEK6v9iKKVSSOX0GFe4wx57ap7YUxdcDAhNR4ZVHbpvuysWQyNtCr5pQVcXLbIKXEmlXbKfQe2gM5bO7bs-IffvQRTqzGoCBHxcabhu-3poj0IlvLi-QDkt/s640/blogger-image--614769275.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>I forgot to take a picture, but my campsite for the night was in this valley at a large group spot. The site had bathrooms and showers, but they were all locked. I had been hiking with a new friend named Miles for the last few miles, so we both cowboy camped under the stars.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhME3u4gfsxpLaQFa0h9hCxTKGy9k73_5HKjE5cZw15a760WK-FXdIQ8EpIhZWwMG4MtxMFbvlsRDcthhfkot_ktf_Ey0NHvZ6BK9WaCUPQc-oBZ3_oa8QPdIwez-2ZK1RGvdbS2vShr9zX/s640/blogger-image-1483869303.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhME3u4gfsxpLaQFa0h9hCxTKGy9k73_5HKjE5cZw15a760WK-FXdIQ8EpIhZWwMG4MtxMFbvlsRDcthhfkot_ktf_Ey0NHvZ6BK9WaCUPQc-oBZ3_oa8QPdIwez-2ZK1RGvdbS2vShr9zX/s640/blogger-image-1483869303.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Day 25</div><div>Miles 330-347</div><div><br></div><div>Today I woke up with one single goal- make it 12 miles to McDonalds. The McDonalds at Cajon Pass is, supposedly, the only fast food restaurant on the PCT. Everyone stops there to escape the heat, calorie load, and use the bathrooms. The 12 miles to McDonalds twisted up and down and around endless small hills going down to the pass and highway.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCL-oZuRTsRhLTiaD8SonpSSFoU1hlWvLIA35Ao7l_uogWif7lhD0JxVEp89gnnGH8Og3bd-6jM9jFeV33v3Bj2n6Z0U1ZMyM88oBoxAGTQYRvlhSrRgI26z4_WnX4MGvAmeR-obOBqRLe/s640/blogger-image-1130762655.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCL-oZuRTsRhLTiaD8SonpSSFoU1hlWvLIA35Ao7l_uogWif7lhD0JxVEp89gnnGH8Og3bd-6jM9jFeV33v3Bj2n6Z0U1ZMyM88oBoxAGTQYRvlhSrRgI26z4_WnX4MGvAmeR-obOBqRLe/s640/blogger-image-1130762655.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Look! I'm almost to Canada!</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj067l1i7FIRyUGelqopbUQVAc7U-Fg-ULtNc-QtdocjJ1rVaUB4Iap44lpMY2sHyDjhs6_J7mFX6hRXp-NzFv-5QB7jhKivNPeXkClhJCu55UeyJynYXcLjGU-GXWVR254RXRt8FPbhanK/s640/blogger-image--1900152461.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj067l1i7FIRyUGelqopbUQVAc7U-Fg-ULtNc-QtdocjJ1rVaUB4Iap44lpMY2sHyDjhs6_J7mFX6hRXp-NzFv-5QB7jhKivNPeXkClhJCu55UeyJynYXcLjGU-GXWVR254RXRt8FPbhanK/s640/blogger-image--1900152461.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPd7QOi5t-v94uq0NC3CuaLaHeKh0lJ8SegVfQU6g8zo6PAejhKX0ncMn3QNgMD0Nj3CSDD-SHF7_v5pXxwChCLu9PldGXqwMbjo2XyO7t343ZdkW43AfwXm4XqDOB1DAu2SOBsAVeM_vA/s640/blogger-image-86119339.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPd7QOi5t-v94uq0NC3CuaLaHeKh0lJ8SegVfQU6g8zo6PAejhKX0ncMn3QNgMD0Nj3CSDD-SHF7_v5pXxwChCLu9PldGXqwMbjo2XyO7t343ZdkW43AfwXm4XqDOB1DAu2SOBsAVeM_vA/s640/blogger-image-86119339.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Miles had hiked ahead of me (his trail name is Miles because he's FAST) and was waiting for me before the final victory half mile off-trail to the restaurant.</div><div><br></div><div>I'm finally beginning to understand this "hiker hunger" that everyone talks about. It's difficult to describe, but it feels like a slight cramping/nausea that starts about an hour after eating. It's sort of uncomfortable and strange and it only goes away after consuming a few hundred more calories.</div><div><br></div><div>I'm still grossed out by most foods, even the goods I liked before the trip, but I'm attributing a lot if that to the heat. In the end, the hiker hunger is trumping the lack of desire to eat and I've been eating quite a bit more in the last few days.</div><div><br></div><div>At McDonalds, I managed to eat 10 chicken nuggets, 4 sodas, fries, a chocolate shake, two spicy McChicken sandwiches, and more fries. Then I fell into a deep, deep food coma.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNDJ8vD8PZjRc_NkKvwl_Dc462F3EeYZNqE0GQ_l7Hsk_tntbuG8PXOXbrwkA8jV0D84_vwuXfkMW-Hp4sIu9yRQDb6YFuPIDMx21MZkvOJH2y54-Ip1sKlcZ_HoOTl1fCyIo4YInq1IW7/s640/blogger-image-1409025408.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNDJ8vD8PZjRc_NkKvwl_Dc462F3EeYZNqE0GQ_l7Hsk_tntbuG8PXOXbrwkA8jV0D84_vwuXfkMW-Hp4sIu9yRQDb6YFuPIDMx21MZkvOJH2y54-Ip1sKlcZ_HoOTl1fCyIo4YInq1IW7/s640/blogger-image-1409025408.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>We took up a whole corner of the restaurant. We're so dark and dirty!</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgekEKX1FOVxeMMS7SvqscXPZlomJQbUeLpcFAIiNHGOQDkywPvMsoj_OR7bzpq_CocD0rWU1Lf-goYlrAJ7mGnrXQEH5xzdvdduwEie98VEFjfAGtkZ8E_6wIpAjwlqlIMvhUIRHOng1ja/s640/blogger-image--2053922383.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgekEKX1FOVxeMMS7SvqscXPZlomJQbUeLpcFAIiNHGOQDkywPvMsoj_OR7bzpq_CocD0rWU1Lf-goYlrAJ7mGnrXQEH5xzdvdduwEie98VEFjfAGtkZ8E_6wIpAjwlqlIMvhUIRHOng1ja/s640/blogger-image--2053922383.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiOuTHq8p0AQrsd9YBlZEcd9n27CwneMmKhtlCPyjizUnLFNurIg-aI3noiNb_A9e8Btkku9HKWX_3yV6H6eRKIMAIo5bdCpWMkcPZ86rJ7HPsyslrVuumoree78rNzC0h7-WnH8Ob4jMS/s640/blogger-image-1603140642.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiOuTHq8p0AQrsd9YBlZEcd9n27CwneMmKhtlCPyjizUnLFNurIg-aI3noiNb_A9e8Btkku9HKWX_3yV6H6eRKIMAIo5bdCpWMkcPZ86rJ7HPsyslrVuumoree78rNzC0h7-WnH8Ob4jMS/s640/blogger-image-1603140642.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>I decided to hike 5 more miles today to get out of the town/restaurant vortex. Miles stayed behind in a motel while Rocket and I hiked under the highway and into a large bowl-shaped valley where we could see the highway skirting the valley and trains weaving in and out of the hills. I tried to capturer he incredible scene in this panorama, but I'm not sure how it will come through on your computer screens.</div><div><br></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWhpnh13qBVpMg_PQUbune2EHhph9q2WQWE1rE8_tlF7TWbGf1yKJrMhyphenhyphenGABMq1GvOJgfpqNbbaqxo1QmQh6muhH3nXLLEnvr1KBLJ7AowXMs_iw9eI8X0jdC3ESfkzBhyX5qdZ583LhaU/s640/blogger-image--241744900.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWhpnh13qBVpMg_PQUbune2EHhph9q2WQWE1rE8_tlF7TWbGf1yKJrMhyphenhyphenGABMq1GvOJgfpqNbbaqxo1QmQh6muhH3nXLLEnvr1KBLJ7AowXMs_iw9eI8X0jdC3ESfkzBhyX5qdZ583LhaU/s640/blogger-image--241744900.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">With only a 1/2 mile remaining, I stumbled on this old water cache.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYMWzEN-5kGlXW8A_2-HT2udKU2zhpyzk0aqexPf4cpa491ymd0iLsVoXHvEgpWXuQcKEsk-Fcrya0vJ6J4dnP1XMTjUg3_zIQKS08M_vKy06Gr291q6oG85TyILiLGWsiTeYXcJCK_HS9/s640/blogger-image--1829723829.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYMWzEN-5kGlXW8A_2-HT2udKU2zhpyzk0aqexPf4cpa491ymd0iLsVoXHvEgpWXuQcKEsk-Fcrya0vJ6J4dnP1XMTjUg3_zIQKS08M_vKy06Gr291q6oG85TyILiLGWsiTeYXcJCK_HS9/s640/blogger-image--1829723829.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">There wasn't much inside: a gallon or two of old water, some random paperback books, empty cookie tins, and a hiker log. It looks like Jolly is already a day ahead if me!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQPjOLBuBtcuSvfYe1tVaL5Sn10sLJ11Amwf_uToxqf6IF7rX7xiPoeatpTQlMVTRdTXQvGm74Kt8GFDuYGs07mKzQ7c9EUrYTBUw9nCRmA8yNSZYo9r0c51hR2rHgM_6DOc0d68fcxc_I/s640/blogger-image--2123752581.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQPjOLBuBtcuSvfYe1tVaL5Sn10sLJ11Amwf_uToxqf6IF7rX7xiPoeatpTQlMVTRdTXQvGm74Kt8GFDuYGs07mKzQ7c9EUrYTBUw9nCRmA8yNSZYo9r0c51hR2rHgM_6DOc0d68fcxc_I/s640/blogger-image--2123752581.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Rocket and I camped inside of the San Andreas fault, which is the fault line<font color="#000000"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> between two tectonic plates: the Pacific Plate and the North American Plate. Rocket and I talked about how, if there was an earthquake, maybe we would fall into a crack in the earth while we slept.</span></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu853XdGv2Tg2a7HMyPRHFKGulI7E9Q03XoNCfSbSjO9QRmnjQOWl84Fi2jxN5nn1-b23XMEieujaUSEauF6K8UKjvV_C5hy_tw2UWEEDYh45REJy-zf1pwYQttS27Vtekr7l5mbNlgMJe/s640/blogger-image-1108105678.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu853XdGv2Tg2a7HMyPRHFKGulI7E9Q03XoNCfSbSjO9QRmnjQOWl84Fi2jxN5nn1-b23XMEieujaUSEauF6K8UKjvV_C5hy_tw2UWEEDYh45REJy-zf1pwYQttS27Vtekr7l5mbNlgMJe/s640/blogger-image-1108105678.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">It was a perfect campsite, even with the risk of death.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl9Qdh-grJFVeBwfcBRIu_DuHSeBo2tOHoRTxhppYtCHGNLfvLmZU999ZDgCkUAGpB7QPZDHz67_F6zhal6LlOqAvcUMbDmPfOP7GOp2qui8NmO5z7U8lWarRI8I9bOxRHalCRGuWZKl8c/s640/blogger-image--1301799015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl9Qdh-grJFVeBwfcBRIu_DuHSeBo2tOHoRTxhppYtCHGNLfvLmZU999ZDgCkUAGpB7QPZDHz67_F6zhal6LlOqAvcUMbDmPfOP7GOp2qui8NmO5z7U8lWarRI8I9bOxRHalCRGuWZKl8c/s640/blogger-image--1301799015.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Day 26</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Miles 347-369</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Today was a big climb out of the San Andreas fault and into the San Gabriel mountains, home of the Angeles National Forest, Mount Baldy, and Baden-Powell. It also marks the beginning of California section "D" of the PCT, a 112.5 mile section that ends in Agua Dulce.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We hiked out around 5am to beat the heat. Today will be a 22-mile day with over 6,000 feet of climbing.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh659rk0LgBK-pJgpMqw7jT-p53MDuSdC9fPNwNpXpZ_chujapJoDPuBkgDpq9eKzjQlqIMsWSkqZdP9jNT1wcd3VVQvj9gLjrW4GnGjIQY9ySrG0CepGawdEE8Li1tLdzXho7HVqO_rBHW/s640/blogger-image--972332592.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh659rk0LgBK-pJgpMqw7jT-p53MDuSdC9fPNwNpXpZ_chujapJoDPuBkgDpq9eKzjQlqIMsWSkqZdP9jNT1wcd3VVQvj9gLjrW4GnGjIQY9ySrG0CepGawdEE8Li1tLdzXho7HVqO_rBHW/s640/blogger-image--972332592.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGE64seMPfibaV0_31O7i6ngaW_xN02dMUHC1AIBwYCh8HorYhuRS0EfZGxMseS_sMJuBdi86SQlC8Uk_k1ec_3dtBP5_nF5J7Rrn46GQez5g59wE6KuUbzTq59OCAuNHwNN3-pp_qYmsB/s640/blogger-image-425646046.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGE64seMPfibaV0_31O7i6ngaW_xN02dMUHC1AIBwYCh8HorYhuRS0EfZGxMseS_sMJuBdi86SQlC8Uk_k1ec_3dtBP5_nF5J7Rrn46GQez5g59wE6KuUbzTq59OCAuNHwNN3-pp_qYmsB/s640/blogger-image-425646046.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">There's a detour on the ascent to skip a burn zone that's overrun by Poodle Dog bush. I was distracted by my Game of Thrones book on tape, so I missed the detour. The trail became an obstacle course for the next four miles as I had to constantly dodge the evil plants that grew into the trail.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp7QFqDRaw_x168qMrY3mDx8z7dUJCGhfke3l26YNHP9MbJ5c0P94MDsuvjk4B2ZbI9OE51khvW8zXwvWH9Vf320YQRNKDiX-cphwI9WzfLlud5gj3aSVJSTWeFbC4MEs8mHtco-MId-Ph/s640/blogger-image-589350438.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp7QFqDRaw_x168qMrY3mDx8z7dUJCGhfke3l26YNHP9MbJ5c0P94MDsuvjk4B2ZbI9OE51khvW8zXwvWH9Vf320YQRNKDiX-cphwI9WzfLlud5gj3aSVJSTWeFbC4MEs8mHtco-MId-Ph/s640/blogger-image-589350438.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I made it into Angeles National Forest right before meeting a trail angel, Big O, who gave me a piece of his roast beef sandwich. Yumm.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi93QS4CKVsjZwFpNdOkrRe3Z7NCXZDOnHAwqN2f3ZpXFWd7wEU7zrGl_3zGaJCnXD-jjTUt7D75rMNujwPeeeWRiTFzqVVR4h9DTnr102TvokcTcdoYRtl-5D7pftkI7CUbAuDDI_zra9g/s640/blogger-image-1393669029.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi93QS4CKVsjZwFpNdOkrRe3Z7NCXZDOnHAwqN2f3ZpXFWd7wEU7zrGl_3zGaJCnXD-jjTUt7D75rMNujwPeeeWRiTFzqVVR4h9DTnr102TvokcTcdoYRtl-5D7pftkI7CUbAuDDI_zra9g/s640/blogger-image-1393669029.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Up up up up up up up. After speeding past Rocket, I hiked alone until I ran into Sugar Pine and Lingo. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyw0s2XwsjWqe_BMvGCLDnNnMElu7rgO9PpY_dwvzi_D2sFjR_MDaFZbmgyAbcaHykO-k2tMyASG0waFTdfHgdRoWVuwbAY7lrGZY-0mSMpSZRG8lpoVQjIIg0YJ0LYkgroQKCCDRrMFL6/s640/blogger-image--753717463.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyw0s2XwsjWqe_BMvGCLDnNnMElu7rgO9PpY_dwvzi_D2sFjR_MDaFZbmgyAbcaHykO-k2tMyASG0waFTdfHgdRoWVuwbAY7lrGZY-0mSMpSZRG8lpoVQjIIg0YJ0LYkgroQKCCDRrMFL6/s640/blogger-image--753717463.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Once Sug, Lingo and I made it to Highway 2, we got picked up by the owner of the Pines Motel. He's an older Filipino man who likes to drive fast, bargain hard, and is incredibly hiker-friendly. He sped into the parking lot where we were resting while bumping Rihanna as loud as his car allowed. He jumped out and shuffled our packs into the rear while telling us that his conversion van, complete with at least three TVs, cost him $100,000 in the 90s. The drive was a bit scary as he swerved in and out of the double yellow line and into oncoming traffic, but we made it safely in the end.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Then I looked into a mirror. Am I sweating McNuggets or what?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhF3l72uEk8YZGrFMCajzhlts4Xmc6kewF3yXXnuzMYYrN0gzpy99WzF-7t_BvD4wkHGhZppxyonuxGJrMyjww2hvJ6fGfy9S2GeO2AEvR_HWeXipTfAo4XW6-ENOwYB3ReBLqMY1lB1H3/s640/blogger-image--154420112.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhF3l72uEk8YZGrFMCajzhlts4Xmc6kewF3yXXnuzMYYrN0gzpy99WzF-7t_BvD4wkHGhZppxyonuxGJrMyjww2hvJ6fGfy9S2GeO2AEvR_HWeXipTfAo4XW6-ENOwYB3ReBLqMY1lB1H3/s640/blogger-image--154420112.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Dinner- Six sodas (I've really been craving soda recently) and a very large pizza.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRiHUVuSnPIerHMS9UX4OnZd5MFlDymPFzzzcZnzWypHsKnBFGmLfIt0S5cWF0FZ_15OYhzBMVp2kJc_0OKZI2upDkA4LQbfoIv6s57aL7eZ6D8oCcSCYNszdsfl1TbkrV72UdXis9lhMh/s640/blogger-image-1726808722.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRiHUVuSnPIerHMS9UX4OnZd5MFlDymPFzzzcZnzWypHsKnBFGmLfIt0S5cWF0FZ_15OYhzBMVp2kJc_0OKZI2upDkA4LQbfoIv6s57aL7eZ6D8oCcSCYNszdsfl1TbkrV72UdXis9lhMh/s640/blogger-image-1726808722.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Tomorrow I'm hoping to get out of the town vortex as early as possible. I have to resupply for the next 4-5 day section, but then I need to escape before I decide to gorge myself on milkshakes and take a nap in the afternoon. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The motel is overrun by other hikers, all of whom I've met before. I spent the rest of<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> my night eating pizza and fruit, drinking whiskey and soda, and laughing around a big table in the motel's courtyard. This is the life!</span></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860000285673806917.post-31472411892832622752014-05-01T15:13:00.001-07:002014-05-01T15:13:44.273-07:00PCT Day 22<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Miles 266-292</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We left Yucaipa at 5:30am and dropped off Rocket and T-Rose at the post office in Big Bear. They both had to pick up packages and Jolly and I were itching to get back on the trail. Jolly wanted a full day of hiking to try and catch up with old friends ahead of us and I decided to hike with him. Jolly and I have similar hiking speeds and he's great at keeping me motivated when I might otherwise be taking naps and relaxing.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQAfEPjvjIsMyaRSj3uc0YSIRvIRZs74V1YwZGoeRseNej81GM9MLc_rcjiJaAyRK_Scr3Ik8gu7sTCrmXMPweoCuLiCYFbUI9ceimmrNMysriGw67avsIkbGkMXsL4vyNciXQOcqWg7ks/s640/blogger-image--1549755829.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQAfEPjvjIsMyaRSj3uc0YSIRvIRZs74V1YwZGoeRseNej81GM9MLc_rcjiJaAyRK_Scr3Ik8gu7sTCrmXMPweoCuLiCYFbUI9ceimmrNMysriGw67avsIkbGkMXsL4vyNciXQOcqWg7ks/s640/blogger-image--1549755829.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The hike today took us around the back of Big Bear Lake. I visited Big Bear a few times as a kid, but I've never seen the town from this side of the lake.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglSm-vjLJjqShWL_95TqikYFkI_A6PJx0MwoQLKQdQeX-sfTxBK3MmsU53v-onQFXK2eoVyy-wPm6DV9wPcVnrLYYuz8jK7A4Q6bFUcfIGo6PSL3fKcLP6Or1qI7slJGVGJgN03enJC25R/s640/blogger-image--568576804.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglSm-vjLJjqShWL_95TqikYFkI_A6PJx0MwoQLKQdQeX-sfTxBK3MmsU53v-onQFXK2eoVyy-wPm6DV9wPcVnrLYYuz8jK7A4Q6bFUcfIGo6PSL3fKcLP6Or1qI7slJGVGJgN03enJC25R/s640/blogger-image--568576804.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The forest soon turned back into chaparral as the day went on and we went lower in elevation.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7MI8cTAlnvNSfpM9fv3aoDkOa49EPAqhmPTz0kTIr0bqE0blYC175t4euoen73rvL_4LFGcZEz2cpn_JfcnX0owPuRnmtuVWATKDgOej6eWrfZhPukFjjds8pvmE1TbPZxPg2YatwWHJB/s640/blogger-image--1932280229.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7MI8cTAlnvNSfpM9fv3aoDkOa49EPAqhmPTz0kTIr0bqE0blYC175t4euoen73rvL_4LFGcZEz2cpn_JfcnX0owPuRnmtuVWATKDgOej6eWrfZhPukFjjds8pvmE1TbPZxPg2YatwWHJB/s640/blogger-image--1932280229.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Here's another picture of my new tent! I'm so excited to sleep in it tonight!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWSB3-TlhDG2UtdzUhJLYOAKIPG-TOtvsGLRT13dfYLUkNaOqa5vHOUg1XAKaZ2E4untdxDEI-81h2w5L5S1JZAGE6Q7_4P0GzaYf7j0xhyphenhyphenVDPa40VCYx3YAUsZbCpP84Mxex25EwJbKIK/s640/blogger-image--937034819.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWSB3-TlhDG2UtdzUhJLYOAKIPG-TOtvsGLRT13dfYLUkNaOqa5vHOUg1XAKaZ2E4untdxDEI-81h2w5L5S1JZAGE6Q7_4P0GzaYf7j0xhyphenhyphenVDPa40VCYx3YAUsZbCpP84Mxex25EwJbKIK/s640/blogger-image--937034819.jpg"></a></div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860000285673806917.post-23394980359838774662014-04-27T12:50:00.001-07:002014-05-02T22:09:08.078-07:00PCT Days 19-21 and GLITTERNo miles!<div><br></div><div>First, please excuse these next few blog posts. I haven't had cell reception for a while so my ability to keep up has been limited. Also, don't forget that I write these posts on an iPhone after walking 20-25 miles in the sun, so ignore the autocorrect mistakes that I miss. :)</div><div><br></div><div>After making it out of Big Bear the first order of business was food. Food. Food. Food.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgufkU0iDLMid0xeOJCkMzVGuiST39TyT4537IdGHNjhMBAkUlM4w3osvBlmbkx8cZ6dKrjc-vpz2xArKUUMco7DzjoGeH7png6v2bup6j6LR4oNnOF6c_dwxncdmlWx86oey7T8Gdq9v1i/s640/blogger-image-975885955.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgufkU0iDLMid0xeOJCkMzVGuiST39TyT4537IdGHNjhMBAkUlM4w3osvBlmbkx8cZ6dKrjc-vpz2xArKUUMco7DzjoGeH7png6v2bup6j6LR4oNnOF6c_dwxncdmlWx86oey7T8Gdq9v1i/s640/blogger-image-975885955.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Then we drove from Big Bear to my dad's house in Yucaipa.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCzqHH6QQPyBXBpy9MHvSlGNd85sJerSQJM0n-Z8xhHjJPNdtaQHO2FeMZGUJN85nfyFOdNvdqvCt6t5kh-WMTrfu4wgIUq-g3mEZevjKfcQV31t4HW34vj_4dQQpoq2IIKAm5jvSAaPNo/s640/blogger-image-1458064417.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCzqHH6QQPyBXBpy9MHvSlGNd85sJerSQJM0n-Z8xhHjJPNdtaQHO2FeMZGUJN85nfyFOdNvdqvCt6t5kh-WMTrfu4wgIUq-g3mEZevjKfcQV31t4HW34vj_4dQQpoq2IIKAm5jvSAaPNo/s640/blogger-image-1458064417.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I got a new tent! It's freestanding, tiny, and amazing. It fits my sleeping pad perfectly, so I won't roll off of it at night. See ya later Tarp Tent Contrail!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9tX53m6IPFcigwf_BwaSSP2UizJqxpPdY5tjNKyw7gokzTNhACeH68P4HCyytoR_ywWgumGaKod5Mcd42VQ5wftWu2Ha5hbZ-_l7FH6xY98RhN9Iichw_s-tdQ_WLLZLRMWc80w7sE0nK/s640/blogger-image-410324511.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9tX53m6IPFcigwf_BwaSSP2UizJqxpPdY5tjNKyw7gokzTNhACeH68P4HCyytoR_ywWgumGaKod5Mcd42VQ5wftWu2Ha5hbZ-_l7FH6xY98RhN9Iichw_s-tdQ_WLLZLRMWc80w7sE0nK/s640/blogger-image-410324511.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">After a night eating, drinking, and soaking in the hot tub, we drove from Yucaipa to the kick off in Mt Laguna. It took us two and a half hours to drive back to PCT mile 20. I can't believe I've hiked so far!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFNQHqZgMwZ3EexaqMLLWOsfLsIEeZzNcsPgJaZEo-XevJ2Krtdff75CImhMLbNsSWKfxQ1IFFo5GSq_9MhxBi6hqQD6lGXNCSJy5Zi5Er0vLjUfNVT77VcwBJ56xfJoQxa_UpD_ZD8dAV/s640/blogger-image-1127020851.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFNQHqZgMwZ3EexaqMLLWOsfLsIEeZzNcsPgJaZEo-XevJ2Krtdff75CImhMLbNsSWKfxQ1IFFo5GSq_9MhxBi6hqQD6lGXNCSJy5Zi5Er0vLjUfNVT77VcwBJ56xfJoQxa_UpD_ZD8dAV/s640/blogger-image-1127020851.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>The kick off event was pretty interesting (check out the official website for more info http://adzpctko.org). We arrived on Saturday and perused the vendor stalls. T-Rose bought a bigger pack, Rocket found a bunch of old friends and Jolly and I just walked around checking out everyone's tents and gear. It started to rain in the early evening so I decided to sleep in the car. </div><div><br></div><div>There was a big storm in the middle of the night and I woke up to hordes of flattened tents and people crowded in the bathroom trying to dry out their sleeping bags. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYfzSRxLv5pBlEYMwePGTfRCL_WsGHnzwUKd7dwg-l8S4WKTAxeUbKSSSZgMJjbRl7pA4a2m1XS3khZeR3l1pm8OH1FgXC2-dEsZvQagb7xJTmH0dq6VEk5R9AOwfVeq2hsZzpTncRdXd2/s640/blogger-image-322260193.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYfzSRxLv5pBlEYMwePGTfRCL_WsGHnzwUKd7dwg-l8S4WKTAxeUbKSSSZgMJjbRl7pA4a2m1XS3khZeR3l1pm8OH1FgXC2-dEsZvQagb7xJTmH0dq6VEk5R9AOwfVeq2hsZzpTncRdXd2/s640/blogger-image-322260193.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOgSwVeMKnYZZb06VwoUvWcB81UFozLlyJJsu7NAkoKWIFTzEIwI_VXl1mvO3dWP4yf9oMxTDEJptNoCaiNPuJTUfKIAYhAyeCiguEJGYiC73aekTNgyCAaGNVwhj3Sb30ujn1VbGiZdN_/s640/blogger-image--664635556.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOgSwVeMKnYZZb06VwoUvWcB81UFozLlyJJsu7NAkoKWIFTzEIwI_VXl1mvO3dWP4yf9oMxTDEJptNoCaiNPuJTUfKIAYhAyeCiguEJGYiC73aekTNgyCAaGNVwhj3Sb30ujn1VbGiZdN_/s640/blogger-image--664635556.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgauqIVTihZkigkQAmOzNa6onUVSulvwK5teqIiLVmJ3AjZaulZUM5mtgPoSMvFGUd3zTeCc6zU7YcLUZEzetPUcOAnQ14DWlubzeLoxtLTIqDG3jPcrjhDVN0y6GWOzfk8s2RlGj5EScWA/s640/blogger-image--823110827.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgauqIVTihZkigkQAmOzNa6onUVSulvwK5teqIiLVmJ3AjZaulZUM5mtgPoSMvFGUd3zTeCc6zU7YcLUZEzetPUcOAnQ14DWlubzeLoxtLTIqDG3jPcrjhDVN0y6GWOzfk8s2RlGj5EScWA/s640/blogger-image--823110827.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Glitter is my name, my name is Glitter. Sugar Pine came up with the trail name in Idyllwild, but it didn't really stick until the explosion of glitter in my backpack this weekend. I've been carrying this glitter with me since Campo (it's very special glitter) for no specific reason and it finally exploded all over my things. I've washed everything in my toiletries bag, but it's really difficult to remove glitter from, well, anything.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR0Vre6s3cZgBZSERPsyZizsVC9IyVBqK8YlYJjURuEEZ0Z8CSa77xEmX4VVt2kgR6yJj68qHR8ARl89F7ZNnK-4ZiPffAZEm4aL_Ck-NK5v2-HLDq1-cnkLx3MyRzJwdBXzeug7vBVqwf/s640/blogger-image--1547201607.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR0Vre6s3cZgBZSERPsyZizsVC9IyVBqK8YlYJjURuEEZ0Z8CSa77xEmX4VVt2kgR6yJj68qHR8ARl89F7ZNnK-4ZiPffAZEm4aL_Ck-NK5v2-HLDq1-cnkLx3MyRzJwdBXzeug7vBVqwf/s640/blogger-image--1547201607.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>More food!</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNkwjZxlIuwy8uTBPuBecgjYzu8mB9zFmaI8rlSPOTrU5sTy10iL2K_7H0S9K0ePqP4x8wWPf3GZsOAqhCwNanaUddbZA1OjVOcIG_6a43QJW9A6kzc-_COpxXGY7Tuh4ij4jpYbMbNGCP/s640/blogger-image--15903859.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNkwjZxlIuwy8uTBPuBecgjYzu8mB9zFmaI8rlSPOTrU5sTy10iL2K_7H0S9K0ePqP4x8wWPf3GZsOAqhCwNanaUddbZA1OjVOcIG_6a43QJW9A6kzc-_COpxXGY7Tuh4ij4jpYbMbNGCP/s640/blogger-image--15903859.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Hot sauce packets are like gold on trail.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhduFRiU1OinYWodV4ttHOXhxAUnh1qdN-ta7ZIDp0ngTO4Y_59EyFw9Z1t_CoimeWKuFFypjPF8W_kmHMudSGrqvXYdDFHIbyBpQXM_iFcXAci8LB2eMDTrURKPcusPj6GmvtUKf8sL5Fl/s640/blogger-image--1565446977.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhduFRiU1OinYWodV4ttHOXhxAUnh1qdN-ta7ZIDp0ngTO4Y_59EyFw9Z1t_CoimeWKuFFypjPF8W_kmHMudSGrqvXYdDFHIbyBpQXM_iFcXAci8LB2eMDTrURKPcusPj6GmvtUKf8sL5Fl/s640/blogger-image--1565446977.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>After returning to my dad's house after kickoff, we had a day to spread out our things and resupply for the next section.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6YAO7V8gobylhMfiEVnfT1z6txxN4IC02_XR_vYbayOTcmZgIdlMhttCS9ke4_xa9B_28BsK9EUolpRzdGa2DQsou-sI3K0R4DrIVzm899yvGa7XE2dSQuyaL7r6TRtFmFkb8mMNPKE5_/s640/blogger-image-1220133062.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6YAO7V8gobylhMfiEVnfT1z6txxN4IC02_XR_vYbayOTcmZgIdlMhttCS9ke4_xa9B_28BsK9EUolpRzdGa2DQsou-sI3K0R4DrIVzm899yvGa7XE2dSQuyaL7r6TRtFmFkb8mMNPKE5_/s640/blogger-image-1220133062.jpg"></a> </div><br></div><div>We got distracted...</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilQC-JKQPK26-FGJPQ4AvqX5yCdJDRKwNaKEkb55KQRob4y2jdJsB4ajeu6qrdOArY8db8LVg5t0V8y-b_BAnW0ofM2ckWAYv8JaKZVfPXi2xUhr3jtcjJYaW6SBrz-onUgphNa4_jaVEY/s640/blogger-image--357713320.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilQC-JKQPK26-FGJPQ4AvqX5yCdJDRKwNaKEkb55KQRob4y2jdJsB4ajeu6qrdOArY8db8LVg5t0V8y-b_BAnW0ofM2ckWAYv8JaKZVfPXi2xUhr3jtcjJYaW6SBrz-onUgphNa4_jaVEY/s640/blogger-image--357713320.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>We ended our PCT mini-vacation with more hot tub time, more naps, and MORE FOOD. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNPBDByY5KZDRblKFXoaLxYQtweEHHM5jMpt5lwsuIGiekgJ8_dRztbd5cFwYC6EOG2Nt6Gdj5EkSqWziULfa2Mv4ylA2sJI8HDZmLGGmmK1GsJ4VY78LWTj1hzRyKNHPdkt8YjXxsMeMu/s640/blogger-image--976230999.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNPBDByY5KZDRblKFXoaLxYQtweEHHM5jMpt5lwsuIGiekgJ8_dRztbd5cFwYC6EOG2Nt6Gdj5EkSqWziULfa2Mv4ylA2sJI8HDZmLGGmmK1GsJ4VY78LWTj1hzRyKNHPdkt8YjXxsMeMu/s640/blogger-image--976230999.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860000285673806917.post-6676409229591751212014-04-27T12:40:00.001-07:002014-05-01T06:03:37.422-07:00PCT Day 18<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Miles 246-266</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Today we saw animal cages for Hollywood stunt animals!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1H9kK21eRcJYk7hNYDJrlBQBt3JT8Yd69M4iRSXA29-DnP8bw91wxFXKL3kiUJFl1yNxn5x-CJLAgnw-RIaVKsNOmF9Sk-HDPsdJDPmbs1lzUkbx4pve2QQKDiQs9Ui_zvZVey60GXGTb/s640/blogger-image-1512976226.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1H9kK21eRcJYk7hNYDJrlBQBt3JT8Yd69M4iRSXA29-DnP8bw91wxFXKL3kiUJFl1yNxn5x-CJLAgnw-RIaVKsNOmF9Sk-HDPsdJDPmbs1lzUkbx4pve2QQKDiQs9Ui_zvZVey60GXGTb/s640/blogger-image-1512976226.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0UDRDXKl84OSDBTWuT7PxpUwDoOemhSyhwBWqsQZb0aEBqjcYa89SkXBm8wGhIkJRHMAB-W2cNfoeuPvQWHmKa8Ii_xKy32UZwTAeW5SIJhu_ybBz2R5QulWjonw42VgP0lR0mr704m6n/s640/blogger-image--445413347.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0UDRDXKl84OSDBTWuT7PxpUwDoOemhSyhwBWqsQZb0aEBqjcYa89SkXBm8wGhIkJRHMAB-W2cNfoeuPvQWHmKa8Ii_xKy32UZwTAeW5SIJhu_ybBz2R5QulWjonw42VgP0lR0mr704m6n/s640/blogger-image--445413347.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitkWJH_RTCd2BmbDXS6vakFNJIeH1rvjDOZwU-HnSbOH1K_DZplcSSJOxrNkyqYEriUEG_ZHvuFvm4dgAPtSqFUnoL1_fQchzCmtpQMAbbkpneFV1Cu4m6WwCxdKTq7QwADMfiqjuFFy4-/s640/blogger-image-2022377805.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitkWJH_RTCd2BmbDXS6vakFNJIeH1rvjDOZwU-HnSbOH1K_DZplcSSJOxrNkyqYEriUEG_ZHvuFvm4dgAPtSqFUnoL1_fQchzCmtpQMAbbkpneFV1Cu4m6WwCxdKTq7QwADMfiqjuFFy4-/s640/blogger-image-2022377805.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We also found a couch and a dumpster full of soda.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqpNbnFVdQm6-p_KzCK8GLFEdJ1URCPAjQhLlrQXzOb0v2P3Y0d7trjFByHOagSf14THi0eIHxcUm4aqEJkZZ7LvUI9qGU0RbXHtOtuT6s_0kQDYZQgUU6TxLeu30sSEKDoYeldWpEUW_A/s640/blogger-image-918608721.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqpNbnFVdQm6-p_KzCK8GLFEdJ1URCPAjQhLlrQXzOb0v2P3Y0d7trjFByHOagSf14THi0eIHxcUm4aqEJkZZ7LvUI9qGU0RbXHtOtuT6s_0kQDYZQgUU6TxLeu30sSEKDoYeldWpEUW_A/s640/blogger-image-918608721.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCUJryW_WUgc2y8nXDr3VfL2Bs_Mp8JCZNUQAdt6oesjffQqlSajLdf8WsQQDhncg_xaIeaQubPOC_TAo2GoaO_NKjgGcumGN5eb2oM4zmS9JQaNPOHnYekWnN54Z15o0t2Kqk0fPyJ1bE/s640/blogger-image--1219571878.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCUJryW_WUgc2y8nXDr3VfL2Bs_Mp8JCZNUQAdt6oesjffQqlSajLdf8WsQQDhncg_xaIeaQubPOC_TAo2GoaO_NKjgGcumGN5eb2oM4zmS9JQaNPOHnYekWnN54Z15o0t2Kqk0fPyJ1bE/s640/blogger-image--1219571878.jpg"></a></div><br></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWIy_KgIw6iPrZtFlW4lHdvCSDLd1X8Xa3Yf3XeN6drYGTYJxt06g1mRE0kYDXG8zrebK091mcMwcZFAzeLd17_xj_54EQ5g7YuVWa0jFwUvDneq7Y6bCuBCNi1K9hCDWQB6C9o5bvKTVD/s640/blogger-image--380437861.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWIy_KgIw6iPrZtFlW4lHdvCSDLd1X8Xa3Yf3XeN6drYGTYJxt06g1mRE0kYDXG8zrebK091mcMwcZFAzeLd17_xj_54EQ5g7YuVWa0jFwUvDneq7Y6bCuBCNi1K9hCDWQB6C9o5bvKTVD/s640/blogger-image--380437861.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg38GhjLaankAF2rwl9IdTq5lBYWTtSyagB4kpIKNmfpQzdZvlWB_oSPgClbOiq22yqRrtGsaHT5xcfrQDU4sX1Iyb3aBBIG2ykcO_7Qe3AH7sztcvy0hfi0vtf4v0A1mImFjhqVUiKXeU_/s640/blogger-image--1167788805.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg38GhjLaankAF2rwl9IdTq5lBYWTtSyagB4kpIKNmfpQzdZvlWB_oSPgClbOiq22yqRrtGsaHT5xcfrQDU4sX1Iyb3aBBIG2ykcO_7Qe3AH7sztcvy0hfi0vtf4v0A1mImFjhqVUiKXeU_/s640/blogger-image--1167788805.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">At mile 266, outside of Big Bear, my dad dropped off my brothers car so we could drive to the kickoff event this weekend. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhyphenhyphenf87R6ZJAPQScHm3bf669Ggc0qa_et0KpL2gfxgRIO85gU6N9AMDP5SLgs_TKJ0ws04ue4xSkZeeZMGyolXm3z_uzbNFFY7bpX4llrPPmh-mOEy0dUSMpADPh9Yok4izjuZnJbbPvwsm/s640/blogger-image-1720121099.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhyphenhyphenf87R6ZJAPQScHm3bf669Ggc0qa_et0KpL2gfxgRIO85gU6N9AMDP5SLgs_TKJ0ws04ue4xSkZeeZMGyolXm3z_uzbNFFY7bpX4llrPPmh-mOEy0dUSMpADPh9Yok4izjuZnJbbPvwsm/s640/blogger-image-1720121099.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860000285673806917.post-20568306373936805592014-04-25T00:11:00.001-07:002014-04-27T21:30:35.198-07:00PCT Day 17<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Miles 226-246</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Today I was one of the first people out of camp, only two 20-mile days to Big Bear and three days off-trail for the PCT Kickoff event. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">It's always nice hiking in the morning before the sun comes out. The guidebook says that many hikers skip this section of the trail (Mission Creek) because its hot, dry, and has a lot if elevation gain. In order to get the 20 miles to camp tonight, we climb 6,341 feet out of Mission Creek and into the mountains of the San Bernardino National Forest.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV752sRhmuEmWYd3vVDjRoVWNScci01UrcqChJ8Ka9dg-MUvk6_TbceIqgELf-P51Nd7jPpn2bazLVBjtGxw6mvNLoctXCrJ_OfeF2MDzeMOctq24dyhsbV-ksnFpm11M4ZoOLXzpw5Bmt/s640/blogger-image--1239327784.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV752sRhmuEmWYd3vVDjRoVWNScci01UrcqChJ8Ka9dg-MUvk6_TbceIqgELf-P51Nd7jPpn2bazLVBjtGxw6mvNLoctXCrJ_OfeF2MDzeMOctq24dyhsbV-ksnFpm11M4ZoOLXzpw5Bmt/s640/blogger-image--1239327784.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">There's a burn zone near Mission Creek where I saw these awesome zombie plants.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6vWoWIw5kXCxrFBR7qQIzYJkMrlSrgtKwpzEteUkoVUD-ONfSOar7jI90TOPdmLN5eyJPa9uYZQ44OxYyZD3lOCSue6PvzH8sgPPZ-Bn0Y9dSJQZRsJ5CB1RrLcXpa66p_pUm0zCYrlc0/s640/blogger-image-1352570554.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6vWoWIw5kXCxrFBR7qQIzYJkMrlSrgtKwpzEteUkoVUD-ONfSOar7jI90TOPdmLN5eyJPa9uYZQ44OxYyZD3lOCSue6PvzH8sgPPZ-Bn0Y9dSJQZRsJ5CB1RrLcXpa66p_pUm0zCYrlc0/s640/blogger-image-1352570554.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">As I've mentioned before, I<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">'ve been having trouble eating a sufficient amount of calories for the past few weeks. I'm down to 174 pounds after starting the trail at 185. I know a lot of the weight loss is a normal adjustment to this amount if excersize, but I'd like to slow down</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> the weight loss if I can.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">On the advise of my brother's friend, who hiked the PCT previously, I've started eating my dinners for lunch. The extra calories in the afternoon combined with forcing myself to snack more regularly has helped to </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">ramp up my appetite. Today I ate overcooked mac n' cheese with hot sauce.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9aiRT6sxHb-t-YY7n5K7iyun9Vj264DvzM44x8V7belBt7UXU-iFdtecLM-QyYxXD5Obz4rgLKcXYD1UOJMIMjgQM34Mxg9QqqLAcHLbBkP9DL2piQXNHaElgQ7dVhFtRHqYMgjjH8mdx/s640/blogger-image--271918055.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9aiRT6sxHb-t-YY7n5K7iyun9Vj264DvzM44x8V7belBt7UXU-iFdtecLM-QyYxXD5Obz4rgLKcXYD1UOJMIMjgQM34Mxg9QqqLAcHLbBkP9DL2piQXNHaElgQ7dVhFtRHqYMgjjH8mdx/s640/blogger-image--271918055.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">While climbing out of Mission Creek we caught up with a couple named Purple and Carnivore. They hiked the AT a few years ago and tried to finish the PCT last year, but Purple developed a stress fracture around mile 500 which forced them to leave the trail. They pointed out the very first Poodle-Dog Bush we've seen.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><p><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">According to the PCTA, Poodle-Dog Bush is common in parts of Southern California and touching it can cause a significant allergic reaction. It </span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">is a fire follower that thrives in disturbed soils and does especially well along the PCT. T</span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">ouching the plant can cause anything from a mild rash and </span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">blistering to severe respiratory distress. It is a contact dermatitis and can be transmitted in the same way that poison oak is transmitted. For many people, symptoms are worse than a reaction to poison oak. Symptoms generally appear hours or days after touching the plant. All contact should be avoided."</span></p><p><br></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNm8niM7flz7NZMTMqCkUvB6MmbNZAIK_b-dODz9TMBey-_I1kVmhdb5lbkGaSWLZ6Jk-gKIT7jZOzwLOkNaJmeJYQLUPbZccpgmhNaIuZWsR-pqakV0JLAwG74JlxF88eZct2b9LVzpjS/s640/blogger-image-758197618.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNm8niM7flz7NZMTMqCkUvB6MmbNZAIK_b-dODz9TMBey-_I1kVmhdb5lbkGaSWLZ6Jk-gKIT7jZOzwLOkNaJmeJYQLUPbZccpgmhNaIuZWsR-pqakV0JLAwG74JlxF88eZct2b9LVzpjS/s640/blogger-image-758197618.jpg"></a></p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">After 14 miles and 4,500 feet of elevation gain we took a rest break and watched a search and rescue helicopter flying around. I tried to remember the hand signal for "I'm OK" but I couldn't so I just shook my head when they flew really low above me. We eventually saw a sheriff truck drive up a nearby road and pick up an injured hiker. Someone going south on the PCT told us that the hiker had been vomiting and not feeling well, called her parents, and her parents called search and rescue. I hope she's feeling better now!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIJ0BYH7-noG6Ppa6K8smPGksBS_NtWkIPIUUjLEoCsKU2Ks97FGVojGHJkcX2bpa-A_IJ0gdAH6Ty486zXU9ncsjrVNHkKY14RyWY9wxqbvFB3r2I9e52TYBQUH44ddfO51KUTEQVK-SZ/s640/blogger-image-651971871.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIJ0BYH7-noG6Ppa6K8smPGksBS_NtWkIPIUUjLEoCsKU2Ks97FGVojGHJkcX2bpa-A_IJ0gdAH6Ty486zXU9ncsjrVNHkKY14RyWY9wxqbvFB3r2I9e52TYBQUH44ddfO51KUTEQVK-SZ/s640/blogger-image-651971871.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">After six more beautiful, flat<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> miles we reached Coon Creek Campground. A few hikers were already setting up camp on the porch of an old cabin, so T-Rose, Rocket, Zeb, Jolly and I decided to escape the cold by packing all 5 of us into one small room.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhizCimXayqLhfWeAUn7VO2EimNg4lqI2qORY8yZX1OYvIC85VmdmGbxXSSNVD2g3Y95DTDhi9XvShSr46J9kyWEXwuy7EOPEfUqFIsHmClco9JtUAjjNwJ4zOisymqXs0ys7Vp3v5ISmqn/s640/blogger-image-1799110572.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhizCimXayqLhfWeAUn7VO2EimNg4lqI2qORY8yZX1OYvIC85VmdmGbxXSSNVD2g3Y95DTDhi9XvShSr46J9kyWEXwuy7EOPEfUqFIsHmClco9JtUAjjNwJ4zOisymqXs0ys7Vp3v5ISmqn/s640/blogger-image-1799110572.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We chose the Anti Climax room, of course. Doesn't this look clean and welcoming?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuRRJWXL6NcRowcaBLy-nvNlBO3GbkJaMUUN0CNUR_le3smLLnrNfu3TOkAOeT4LZW4dJglaU65U9a34Kb_pYwk0FOM89UxIxtS8-DlWNIaEfZphRp7QAcFTfggF7Uiufv4cwJywmxqmaM/s640/blogger-image-1840881849.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuRRJWXL6NcRowcaBLy-nvNlBO3GbkJaMUUN0CNUR_le3smLLnrNfu3TOkAOeT4LZW4dJglaU65U9a34Kb_pYwk0FOM89UxIxtS8-DlWNIaEfZphRp7QAcFTfggF7Uiufv4cwJywmxqmaM/s640/blogger-image-1840881849.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">While I ate my lunch for dinner, a snickers bar and a bag of cheese-its, T-Rose ate a fine dinner of potato chips and mayonnaise. She is hiking the trail without a stove so she gets pretty creative with her meals.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6wgeBiXSh1aj_WOziGHcUtA1n0BkqJ85ziiHGmEaNETXXEQjzmXff5GisSMySYOsYYxV4x3_Pt7dAHmOC4DhGLRaUTkRNRaN5QCdn9jHr31eepYmkkedHHxwLVl88gAz4mcIA399tSF0o/s640/blogger-image-2057768349.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6wgeBiXSh1aj_WOziGHcUtA1n0BkqJ85ziiHGmEaNETXXEQjzmXff5GisSMySYOsYYxV4x3_Pt7dAHmOC4DhGLRaUTkRNRaN5QCdn9jHr31eepYmkkedHHxwLVl88gAz4mcIA399tSF0o/s640/blogger-image-2057768349.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I'm feeling fantastic and ready to hike 20 more miles tomorrow into Big Bear. Hopefully my dad and brother will meet us there and loan me a car to use for the weekend. If it all works out, five of us will pack in the car and drive back down to Lake Morena (mile 20) for the kickoff event this weekend. Life is goooooood.</div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860000285673806917.post-76216014116534276832014-04-24T19:03:00.001-07:002014-04-24T19:03:46.801-07:00PCT Day 16<div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Miles 211-226</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">We left my dad and Amanda's house this morning after a night of showering, eating, and resting our sore muscles. The amount of dirt I track around is pretty incredible and that became even more apparent on the clean wood floors of the house.</span></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinpYQ-TbxAEmY_9eeSIZP3cJwgTMCBwyTwk6lPdPu0M5SIYZEZPT0ypMM91Dm9okXbs7yrxIBruuVrdac_YBm28XJCG-oj7G4tpHKk-P2e22oMRf43qZWJZwS7W-SGjYy06hxCe-ENYlDq/s640/blogger-image-930339200.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinpYQ-TbxAEmY_9eeSIZP3cJwgTMCBwyTwk6lPdPu0M5SIYZEZPT0ypMM91Dm9okXbs7yrxIBruuVrdac_YBm28XJCG-oj7G4tpHKk-P2e22oMRf43qZWJZwS7W-SGjYy06hxCe-ENYlDq/s640/blogger-image-930339200.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Getting back on trail we hiked into section "C" of California. This starts a 135 mile section of the trail that runs from Cabazon on I-10 to Cajon Pass on I-15.</div><div><br></div><div>We started the day at Ziggy & The Bears and hiked through the valley between the San Jacinto and San Bernardino Mountains. This picture is looking back at Mt San Jacinto.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguzysqIKdfd0wEmJLF9-XoaEt5m1RdFuq_hlNpWvewGdQhOD7E9RnOUhSek3TrET_S9P6Vp_uEbBRLuBzb_sbrp0mgegG-Q8aanU3L6UP5tnOTOyCAQhak_cbSp4hxhDQjhDnwj8MbDJS6/s640/blogger-image--307008997.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguzysqIKdfd0wEmJLF9-XoaEt5m1RdFuq_hlNpWvewGdQhOD7E9RnOUhSek3TrET_S9P6Vp_uEbBRLuBzb_sbrp0mgegG-Q8aanU3L6UP5tnOTOyCAQhak_cbSp4hxhDQjhDnwj8MbDJS6/s640/blogger-image--307008997.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Moving up into the foothills we were blown around by hard winds as we slowly ascended.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl1ljLzdzR9dGW6nTkTJ_A6J0wp7Gd9XnCztLUT8deSVw7NEfVuwVqCgCV4ktlKQ66tfGJpUbk_RiuysXQZO3OvHi7Vd-G4V4ebFLO4j_Hj9f0erI-QoxOnHtyoCeERpAG2-nVXPSvxKbT/s640/blogger-image--538553608.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl1ljLzdzR9dGW6nTkTJ_A6J0wp7Gd9XnCztLUT8deSVw7NEfVuwVqCgCV4ktlKQ66tfGJpUbk_RiuysXQZO3OvHi7Vd-G4V4ebFLO4j_Hj9f0erI-QoxOnHtyoCeERpAG2-nVXPSvxKbT/s640/blogger-image--538553608.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Eventually the trail led us to the Whitewater River where we saw new plants, sat by the creek and soaked our feet. The cold water was refreshing and the wind blew sand into our eyes, ears and lunches.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZyrR2R6-4jFoUVuD7q7TSQEbJBnozZWIquLMsGeFLdHKynMAu2QlPZVFW1QQE1AvtH9SO8fwidJXAdItWYvdv2dHMnPf1heqIglMHWnFim1HwSJwc2ndMC83o6IEbsI1DVlWcc-ud3fpT/s640/blogger-image--852061956.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZyrR2R6-4jFoUVuD7q7TSQEbJBnozZWIquLMsGeFLdHKynMAu2QlPZVFW1QQE1AvtH9SO8fwidJXAdItWYvdv2dHMnPf1heqIglMHWnFim1HwSJwc2ndMC83o6IEbsI1DVlWcc-ud3fpT/s640/blogger-image--852061956.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I try to be careful and scan the trail ahead <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">to avoid snakes. I've always felt pretty successful. Then again, I've never actually seen a snake without someone pointing it out to me. Today I saw a snake; in fact, I almost stepped on a mean looking rattle snake. The snake noticed my foot only a few seconds before I stepped on it's face. It jumped, I jumped and I lept up trail past it's biting range and cursed for a few minutes.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHSYlse7bO81iE4GF9Ozpoj4c9aYAy9RSak5TTm2IDtUTSWjST31pMCMl-H6nHNRdw3jGmwNPAeX2NdNAdKhH-SEFcrzMpXMl7FMF6x11rS9Xyu8mayTmDL5mq-nQeJlBHi7Fv9SiVzxuv/s640/blogger-image-493714476.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHSYlse7bO81iE4GF9Ozpoj4c9aYAy9RSak5TTm2IDtUTSWjST31pMCMl-H6nHNRdw3jGmwNPAeX2NdNAdKhH-SEFcrzMpXMl7FMF6x11rS9Xyu8mayTmDL5mq-nQeJlBHi7Fv9SiVzxuv/s640/blogger-image-493714476.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">There is so much life out here in the desert besides snakes. There are these caterpillars EVERYWHERE on trail today. They are fat, round, and adorable. Does this mean there will be a butterfly explosion in the next few weeks?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5w9zE85h8OAQhpDnSZt0BUQb1iJaDGrchgvXS9Hui-g2YzsgYSzQkQEn4vZvQYr8F18iJv-5BFcoIn270_mKjAa2iwPNg3gmJi-XqQBiEgJ5Nbse-cAkdvNt3hMUwyo-huvrlYQGkdB6v/s640/blogger-image-568045147.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5w9zE85h8OAQhpDnSZt0BUQb1iJaDGrchgvXS9Hui-g2YzsgYSzQkQEn4vZvQYr8F18iJv-5BFcoIn270_mKjAa2iwPNg3gmJi-XqQBiEgJ5Nbse-cAkdvNt3hMUwyo-huvrlYQGkdB6v/s640/blogger-image-568045147.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The San Bernardino mountains are treating us well. Look at this view to the west over the mountain range.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMnc-LiYrlLcc55_8-hCjmzd6ACSUbiDYWUSrSdupeiX8yFOVFi9hl72ELFlc6ouWwYK8_wgIEznBEweuVm5RqqWrIzuU0UeGsxxvYzNwd9RvaoBPdt6JmxfODwpN759-5csee1oGQG9fh/s640/blogger-image-2062029553.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMnc-LiYrlLcc55_8-hCjmzd6ACSUbiDYWUSrSdupeiX8yFOVFi9hl72ELFlc6ouWwYK8_wgIEznBEweuVm5RqqWrIzuU0UeGsxxvYzNwd9RvaoBPdt6JmxfODwpN759-5csee1oGQG9fh/s640/blogger-image-2062029553.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Tonight I'm camping in a low creek bed near Mission Creek. There are tons of other hikers around and I'm hoping that it won't get too cold during the night. I'm happy.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7ciPs9-WHhQfLDEZGvQ6rhykOGRAeLbklcfNEH9FqRgInKult3aWiONl67o0zhSbMbjIIJLT2NpOZw2zTPti-cISn5qL5VQbHVz6s6p_2lSQ15mftgIP_dVyPTyXNBo0-aYdt8wEoUfl1/s640/blogger-image--491328775.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7ciPs9-WHhQfLDEZGvQ6rhykOGRAeLbklcfNEH9FqRgInKult3aWiONl67o0zhSbMbjIIJLT2NpOZw2zTPti-cISn5qL5VQbHVz6s6p_2lSQ15mftgIP_dVyPTyXNBo0-aYdt8wEoUfl1/s640/blogger-image--491328775.jpg"></a></div><br></div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860000285673806917.post-21759004567652832602014-04-21T23:40:00.001-07:002014-04-24T16:52:03.314-07:00PCT Day 15Miles 190-211<div><br></div><div>I've written blog entries for days 16 and 17, but I can't post them because I have a total mental block on writing an entry for day 15. Pictures and brief descriptions will have to do!</div><div><br></div><div>Today we hiked the dreaded Fuller Ridge. In order to get out of the San Jacintos onto the valley floor, we had to descend over 6,000 feet. The distance is only four miles as the crow flies, but whoever designed the trail turned 4 miles into 15 miles of long, sweaty switchbacks.</div><div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRvnOTjIJi2n5TlqwuZKekvcCYCNu7RfUJQorqqdHP4tFDF91M-62q14P1u9pgqubbQF02raXFKlPYlbS1DZgJpfuNVkO7D1TwqQepH4CVvZQAOQ-WkVF-lm7x9o1DO1xS1VqinJXu7Sp3/s1600/IMG_5182.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRvnOTjIJi2n5TlqwuZKekvcCYCNu7RfUJQorqqdHP4tFDF91M-62q14P1u9pgqubbQF02raXFKlPYlbS1DZgJpfuNVkO7D1TwqQepH4CVvZQAOQ-WkVF-lm7x9o1DO1xS1VqinJXu7Sp3/s1600/IMG_5182.jpg" height="480" width="640"></a></div>
<div><br></div><div>We hit the 200 mile mark today!</div><br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGU5D20np4flSt6dFdpW6-jiE-gCJw4OQEiiLOTXP8UCRcU0PWlv6IrWHAR9cap2jPgp7HxTG4VbV8kNVBlz9CrnUxd1rXHmcpQTbyzorwYLHaUpQpbf-gMK8WVSv46DWBvd68-LeG75YN/s1600/IMG_5183.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGU5D20np4flSt6dFdpW6-jiE-gCJw4OQEiiLOTXP8UCRcU0PWlv6IrWHAR9cap2jPgp7HxTG4VbV8kNVBlz9CrnUxd1rXHmcpQTbyzorwYLHaUpQpbf-gMK8WVSv46DWBvd68-LeG75YN/s1600/IMG_5183.jpg" height="640" width="480"></a></div>
<div><br></div><div>I saw lots of lizards and almost stepped on a non-rattle snake.</div><br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg1ajhadproaKsJmA3QNx64kZBgd7zPJ9ERJqH47m5Gaibs_WstnshqLFT9Tmna_Jw_DscJoW9AJ9juOpTpchX3EZxfPplrv-vJYLT9BrkDaC690UVnax9UEZZ0PfHTczYr1M1JzQru9j2/s1600/IMG_5191.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg1ajhadproaKsJmA3QNx64kZBgd7zPJ9ERJqH47m5Gaibs_WstnshqLFT9Tmna_Jw_DscJoW9AJ9juOpTpchX3EZxfPplrv-vJYLT9BrkDaC690UVnax9UEZZ0PfHTczYr1M1JzQru9j2/s1600/IMG_5191.jpg" height="480" width="640"></a></div>
<div><br></div><div>At the bottom of the ridge looking back at Mt San Jacinto.</div><br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9LAL76Y3TeV7P7BFEj1k-UhiF9uCbpopFyHeeudABKmx2r8qc9QFrKRBcHR8VbzupaCy72N7MH9zygYtOLYU9joPuTYD3-jNFMmDOR4YpuJI_5wIFS6J7Q46HIGt-aWxm8shmrfvzTVSb/s1600/IMG_5196.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9LAL76Y3TeV7P7BFEj1k-UhiF9uCbpopFyHeeudABKmx2r8qc9QFrKRBcHR8VbzupaCy72N7MH9zygYtOLYU9joPuTYD3-jNFMmDOR4YpuJI_5wIFS6J7Q46HIGt-aWxm8shmrfvzTVSb/s1600/IMG_5196.JPG" height="480" width="640"></a></div>
<div><br></div><div>In the last, grueling 5 miles across the valley floor to Ziggy and the Bear's (a trail angel house) we stumbled upon some trail magic. Free beer and shade!</div><br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_LbeRw77zTvuM9_tguwNGR3z6RPAMpwjaveIJnbRHAKT6z8pvsTQHfSVK5cyueD_slArMksiJ38rhWoXZ1TQorXwYnLcVdyvOTaygmmBQ6vVZ4GpyWPSZbHHdZqL762GazazG4hPIJxX0/s1600/IMG_5200.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_LbeRw77zTvuM9_tguwNGR3z6RPAMpwjaveIJnbRHAKT6z8pvsTQHfSVK5cyueD_slArMksiJ38rhWoXZ1TQorXwYnLcVdyvOTaygmmBQ6vVZ4GpyWPSZbHHdZqL762GazazG4hPIJxX0/s1600/IMG_5200.JPG" height="480" width="640"></a></div>
<div><br></div><div>Can you see the two horny toads in this picture? It looks like they're wrestling or maybe one is trying to jump over the other...</div><br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPEVp-N1xK7VoF8sqzVdCbNQaQMftIU9rCKzvuA3NH8lcF6fIxEcMq36DeZLDM8OYS6VavzZNp0o65qd3uIDH0WOVwOsPHBjohfCpUsqbt-Vcp75NSVbqrDVAp_gEaFm9piiFqJbx6FwLG/s1600/IMG_5201.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPEVp-N1xK7VoF8sqzVdCbNQaQMftIU9rCKzvuA3NH8lcF6fIxEcMq36DeZLDM8OYS6VavzZNp0o65qd3uIDH0WOVwOsPHBjohfCpUsqbt-Vcp75NSVbqrDVAp_gEaFm9piiFqJbx6FwLG/s1600/IMG_5201.jpg" height="640" width="480"></a></div>
<div><br></div><div>Going under I-10</div><br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1h360ZdCvIfgkxs-p14lJsXIX_qeO5RCS91bhwXVThgX6wnbWOiogZD48_zJRW9uE9-v9vU1ZsW4A5gtGtFqP2xuOZyutUf9NCl4PNWZpDUmvJYZbVw3gVzEK0k-8H0IeR5bKdB_tBHYP/s1600/IMG_5204.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1h360ZdCvIfgkxs-p14lJsXIX_qeO5RCS91bhwXVThgX6wnbWOiogZD48_zJRW9uE9-v9vU1ZsW4A5gtGtFqP2xuOZyutUf9NCl4PNWZpDUmvJYZbVw3gVzEK0k-8H0IeR5bKdB_tBHYP/s1600/IMG_5204.JPG" height="480" width="640"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here's a view of Mt San Jacinto from Ziggy and the Bear's.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSmwgY4qA6lSPvjGD1kC9hsBvaoYCzmMFEduH37Z-0mYYTehwRIqlGzEKOPPDCBvZT_PktjQvWkG14_cW_DUAHanZL9WIg7nKYPcQwC9HHBt94Oi9P1NPjpSsxCP28-M0kjPz8oNM8Gtz1/s1600/IMG_5206.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSmwgY4qA6lSPvjGD1kC9hsBvaoYCzmMFEduH37Z-0mYYTehwRIqlGzEKOPPDCBvZT_PktjQvWkG14_cW_DUAHanZL9WIg7nKYPcQwC9HHBt94Oi9P1NPjpSsxCP28-M0kjPz8oNM8Gtz1/s1600/IMG_5206.JPG" height="480" width="640"></a></div>
<br></div><div>At <span style="text-align: center; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Ziggy and the Bear's, we met a bunch of new hikers including Jolly and a few women who call themselves "Amazonias." After a soda, m</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">y brother picked us up and drove us 15 minutes into town where Amanda and my dad had put out TONS of food to eat and drop cloth paths that led to the kitchen and the bathroom. We got to shower, eat, do laundry, eat, and relax in the hot tub. Great day. Thank you dad and Amanda!</span></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiY0ZTTQYcz4BzBs7ipjRHzf0X2RsmzmRpkxmRKdU9bZ0ltObPIi0WvyfFgRfndTOM4qX6roNRXiFf0qeV3BTKeb7OagB1rYK6CVUgSqo90cOdyYNuivv2nCGMjmgikrZUCxf55CsgxTHv/s640/blogger-image--22383337.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiY0ZTTQYcz4BzBs7ipjRHzf0X2RsmzmRpkxmRKdU9bZ0ltObPIi0WvyfFgRfndTOM4qX6roNRXiFf0qeV3BTKeb7OagB1rYK6CVUgSqo90cOdyYNuivv2nCGMjmgikrZUCxf55CsgxTHv/s640/blogger-image--22383337.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860000285673806917.post-6534465703279554112014-04-21T23:25:00.004-07:002014-04-22T08:47:30.095-07:00PCT Day 14Miles 179-190<br>
(plus 2.5 Devil's Slide and Mount San Jacinto Alternate)<br>
<br>Today we got up bright and early to get back on the trail and I was so ready to be back on the trail. It's sort of funny, but I already feel more comfortable on trail than in town- no rules, more nap time, and I can pee (almost) anywhere I want! <div><br></div><div>In order to get back up to the PCT, we had to hike out of Idyllwild on the Devils Slide Trail. <br><br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMNIF8lRuHgRMHrvmpWfW2P_mwoVUVAyEXSYvaxalsW12USO2tskZ-s-MSJsQiVrW7LJ-HJxTZOL7aAqbkab9P_JKUCz2tahEtwZV76us3mc8JDy0SVar7gy_KvgxovaREPqR05crjFltz/s1600/IMG_5106.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMNIF8lRuHgRMHrvmpWfW2P_mwoVUVAyEXSYvaxalsW12USO2tskZ-s-MSJsQiVrW7LJ-HJxTZOL7aAqbkab9P_JKUCz2tahEtwZV76us3mc8JDy0SVar7gy_KvgxovaREPqR05crjFltz/s1600/IMG_5106.jpg" height="400" width="300"></a></div>
<div><br></div><div>This is how one of the mountains looked from the bottom of Devil's Slide.</div><br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc4n3NhAyFmHwgwhSdq2uejH21_lKdlaUmM4_GhdUZOh7OolKPlMVsdqXGWlxhMrVIsfUTW5IcRrbh7nfigRzY9S7hKgZlwplplvtnuoF4QTs6aBJVRrY3LmBanaR-mNULIcZ7WZGGnkp2/s1600/IMG_5107.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc4n3NhAyFmHwgwhSdq2uejH21_lKdlaUmM4_GhdUZOh7OolKPlMVsdqXGWlxhMrVIsfUTW5IcRrbh7nfigRzY9S7hKgZlwplplvtnuoF4QTs6aBJVRrY3LmBanaR-mNULIcZ7WZGGnkp2/s1600/IMG_5107.jpg" height="400" width="300"></a></div>
<div><br></div><div>...and from the top.</div><br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqwkhU1gYjA6OX_aaVNi2-Tb-3GI66T_En1-sU1JFsoWI6dfXMANQtdGZhArLouo66Z9ETkwjGdYsUazsdtC5gczR0K5FFbLieb4gkJfL_VvsscUOWQN-KmnskDsw_vxIfIyoXZMx7t0zr/s1600/IMG_5110.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqwkhU1gYjA6OX_aaVNi2-Tb-3GI66T_En1-sU1JFsoWI6dfXMANQtdGZhArLouo66Z9ETkwjGdYsUazsdtC5gczR0K5FFbLieb4gkJfL_VvsscUOWQN-KmnskDsw_vxIfIyoXZMx7t0zr/s1600/IMG_5110.JPG" height="480" width="640"></a></div>
<div><br></div><div>Right before I got off the PCT again to summit Mt San Jacinto, I saw the first snow on my PCT journey. Snowman time!</div><br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6Hw81VuKZ6PMLDO-cjC4e_f_hyTyLTo-IraxLlHp5q9cZ2-8eSYBwHqHdh9H1-b2r4XZ67Xmb3fgUJQWTCdX0fWLHnCzY17RiPHLtZpZRMoGuI9TZzMeg6fWwWuybQHjSFGRW5WHzIsAh/s1600/IMG_5130.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6Hw81VuKZ6PMLDO-cjC4e_f_hyTyLTo-IraxLlHp5q9cZ2-8eSYBwHqHdh9H1-b2r4XZ67Xmb3fgUJQWTCdX0fWLHnCzY17RiPHLtZpZRMoGuI9TZzMeg6fWwWuybQHjSFGRW5WHzIsAh/s1600/IMG_5130.JPG" height="400" width="400"></a></div>
<div><br></div><div>Mt San Jacinto was incredible.</div><br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiamn_uZYjkrUrX1XZMAmHj-ehkM4uKekYCTP0FzMnFY7-LMR67e8ZxEZSTH7pjFCV7r-w9AKE6nORLN3-X64v6Fbrcn0wdgTxDzhexyHRCO3hjlb87LsOGWnipmR2BbjMh_DSdkzz8w9pj/s1600/IMG_5146.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiamn_uZYjkrUrX1XZMAmHj-ehkM4uKekYCTP0FzMnFY7-LMR67e8ZxEZSTH7pjFCV7r-w9AKE6nORLN3-X64v6Fbrcn0wdgTxDzhexyHRCO3hjlb87LsOGWnipmR2BbjMh_DSdkzz8w9pj/s1600/IMG_5146.jpg" height="640" width="480"></a></div>
<div><br></div><div>The hike today through the San Jacintos was picturesque. What a change from the dry, barren landscapes before and after this mountain range.</div><br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWFyjk1nUaaiwQBFjo9hDlYWjJGsB2iSQQh0QpM2mt7qi7DugkCTx1Bw6UmvFEVfwG2LjVlz7gwHx97AyLVIx5V1qzzMk2lxUj8l1-x9L-thK7NrINYpaCgXZ9-59sDkV72FKtyNXbuSe-/s1600/IMG_5154.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWFyjk1nUaaiwQBFjo9hDlYWjJGsB2iSQQh0QpM2mt7qi7DugkCTx1Bw6UmvFEVfwG2LjVlz7gwHx97AyLVIx5V1qzzMk2lxUj8l1-x9L-thK7NrINYpaCgXZ9-59sDkV72FKtyNXbuSe-/s1600/IMG_5154.JPG" height="480" width="640"></a></div>
<div><br></div><div>At one point I stumbled onto this odd, extremely heavy, cylindrical metal container in the middle of the trail. How did it get up here? What is it?</div><br>
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<div><br></div><div>I hiked over a crest as the sun set and got some great pictures. Man, this was a long day!</div><br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3r8K9xoJpb6UqUGLj72-bibwxDEJPTejBIbL6Th4vFLKzTAHgNf7MmsdQ6aDjBZYGxsdlPv0PqE1YcryRNdOJAkV-nrTsRPYuoliSkLNvK2m2KoXFikvqntA60vLMNWXiEpHmYZEhrkxf/s1600/IMG_5165.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3r8K9xoJpb6UqUGLj72-bibwxDEJPTejBIbL6Th4vFLKzTAHgNf7MmsdQ6aDjBZYGxsdlPv0PqE1YcryRNdOJAkV-nrTsRPYuoliSkLNvK2m2KoXFikvqntA60vLMNWXiEpHmYZEhrkxf/s1600/IMG_5165.JPG" height="480" width="640"></a></div>
<div><br></div><div>I camped at the top of Fuller Ridge, ready to make the long descent tomorrow. Look what my Halfmile app says about my day tomorrow. Yikes!</div><br>
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<br></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860000285673806917.post-39907791099254224112014-04-21T23:14:00.001-07:002014-04-21T23:14:53.913-07:00PCT Day 12-13Day 12-<br />
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Miles: NONE</div>
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After blogging last night I decided to take a second shower. The shower turned into a bath and the bath turned into a very wet nap.</div>
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This morning Sug, Lingo, Rocket and I went to Jan's Red Kettle for breakfast. It's apparently the place to go in Idyllwild for breakfast. I had a breakfast burrito the size of my head and it was delicious.</div>
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After breakfast we sat on the back deck of the motel lobby while the innkeeper washed our clothes. I'm still so surprised at how generous people are to us PCT hikers. Businesses all over the town have giant signs that say, "Welcome PCT Hikers." The health food store is giving us free granola and most businesses give us a hiker discount.</div>
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Waiting for our laundry we played cards and practiced our dance moves. Here is Sug practicing her Rocket Llama dance.</div>
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Totally out of the blue, I got a text this afternoon from Nightgown! She was eating at the Paradise Cafe and asked how far ahead we were. A few hours later we were reunited! Yaaaaaaay! Can you see the shock and excitement on my face?</div>
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Rocket and Nightgown convinced me to stay in town for one more day and we all crashed in a motel room rented by Lingo's mom. Once back at the room, Nightgown told us what happened after I left her in Warner Springs. </div>
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After I waved goodbye, she hitched a ride into town with a guy covered in snake tattoos looking for a medical clinic that accepted Medi-Cal. She found a clinic, had an x-Ray and learned that she has no break or sprain. The doctor thinks she aggrivated an old dancing injury and gave her two very large ankle braces. She loves the ankle braces and made some big mileage days to catch up to us. On the way, she fell in with another large hiking group (including Chance from Lake Morena, who is now called Cash). They gave her a new trail name- Teddy Rose! Look at T. Rose's feet! Yikes!</div>
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We ended the night with more pizza before bed.</div>
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Day 13-<br />Miles: NONE<br /><br />I'm enjoying Idyllwild so much and my crew is finally reunited, so I have been convinced to stay in town just one more night. Mama Lingo sealed the deal when she offered to make something for dinner called "cheese bake" that involves toasted bread, cheese, tomato, red onion, bean sprouts and avocado. <br /><br />I'm starting to understand the town vortex. Once you're in town and comfortable it becomes difficult to leave.<br /><br />Once I start hiking again tomorrow you might notice that I'm skipping 20 miles of the trail in the San Jacintos. There was a fire near Idyllwild last year and, unfortunately, they haven't reopened the trail yet in this area. Some hikers are taking a road walk around the closure, but it's on a really dangerous highway with no shoulder and the PCT Association is recommending that hikers hitch into Idyllwild and not attempt to walk the highway.<br /><br />I'm not a purist and I agree with people who say that thru-hiking means hiking the trail as it is when you're there, even if that means hitching past closures... but I still feel a bit guilty. I don't want to skip trail miles, but I don't feel like I have any other options at the moment. Maybe I'll reevaluate once I'm In Big Bear; If the PCTA approves an alternate, I may go back and hike the miles. (152-179).<br /><br />Anyway, today consisted of relaxing, walking around town, and being spoiled by Lingo's mom<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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I even took a nap in the middle of the day and watched a little 13 Going on 30 on cable tv.</div>
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Thru-hiking is a rough life.</div>
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