Monthly Archives: April 2021

I’ve passed 260 miles, meaning….I’ve completed 10% of the trail. Every day brings new challenges. Second day out of San Gorgonio pass saw long portions of poorly or unmarked trail with a 5000 ft elevation gain. The next day temperatures dropped overnight to freezing, with a high in the upper 30’s. On the other hand,Continue reading “Big Bear”

I ended up taking a day and a half in Idylwild, then climbing back up to the PCT and putting in a few miles. The next two days, I split the 8000 foot descent to the valley floor, reaching the I-10 and stopping overnight in Banning. Fuller Ridge still had moderate snow cover, which madeContinue reading “Banning”

After 11 days, I’m taking my first zero. No major injuries, but feeling worn out, particularly after pushing the mileage the past couple of days. One thing I didn’t account for was the off trail hiking. Yesterday was a 1.5 mile trek of trail to refill water from a spring (with a lovely sulfur smell)Continue reading “Idylwild”

I stopped at mile 151 at the landmark cafe stop for a real breakfast. The climb out of Scissors crossing was bone dry and stinking hot. We stopped early afternoon to set up part of the tent for artificial shade, as the trail is fully sun exposed. Fortunately, there was a water cache 13 milesContinue reading “Paradise Valley Cafe”

After an 18 mile day yesterday, today was a shorter 11 mile hike to Scissors Crossing, where I picked up a ride to town from a trail angel. I also ran into another trail friend this morning. Fortunately, it was polite enough to warn us it was close by. Lessons from the first week: 1.Continue reading “Julian”

Generous people, often former through hikers,will provide water, food and other useful items for PCT hikers.

After a rough start, I’ve made to Mt. Laguna for a well earned beer and burger with some fellow hikers. Let’s just say I underestimated how much water I would need. Next is a stop at the general store, then a few more miles before dark.

Saturday I left Boise, heading south. Sunday I stopped off at Bryce for a couple of hours, before arriving in Scottsdale to stay at a friend’s place. Here’s some warm up pictures: Tomorrow I’ll head to Tucson to meet my dad, who will take me to the southern terminus Wednesday morning.