People I met

So, so many locals

Piñacolada

Sinead

Mantis

Journeyman

Max

Queenie

The day

Today is what I needed. I got sunburnt all over, including the top of my forehead (that’s been neglected of sun because of my hat!). My shoulders got the brunt of it, though, as they do.

I spent the day soaking in hot springs talking to people. It was wonderful.

Josh and Marion came through with Layla and Alpha. Their original plan was to stop for a couple hours then continue, but they realized it was too good a spot to pass, so only Layla continued on.

A bunch of other hikers came through and I enjoyed talking to a new bunch of people I haven’t met yet.

I need to start hiking bigger miles, though. The days of 10-13 are done. And I feel rejuvenated enough that I can start that. Wrightwood is going to be a climb starting in about 36 miles, but I think I can make it the total of 56 in three days.

I’m planning a nearo in Wrightwood. A quick resupply, laundry, and an overnight then back on trail. There’s one more significant climb after, the one to Mt. Baden-Powell, and I think I’ll be taking an alternate for that as I shipped my ice axe off already.

After Baden-Powell it’s a pretty straight shot to get to Tehachapi and on to the next section.

In 34.1 miles I’ll go through Cajon Pass and will conclude section C of the PCT. I’m excited to stop there for a quick bite and to recharge my devices before I can overnight in Wrightwood.

I feel really refreshed. It’s perfect.