Journey report by BestHike editor Rick McCharles
One other incredible campsite. Nice climate once more.
Listed below are views trying up from my tent.
Majestic.
I’d been steadily descending from the snowy heights. Vegetation now altering quickly.
My solely well being fear was scorching foot. Would I get blisters?
Simply in case I took off the footwear each hour or two.
I’ve used the identical pack for a lot of a 12 months – the tremendous mild frameless Granite Gear Virga 2.
The same Granite Gear Crown2 is the fifth hottest on the PCT. My subsequent pack shall be a Hyperlite, the third hottest. It’s heavier however close to waterproof. And extra sturdy, I reckon.
Cactus.
Right here’s one of many most important cause individuals purchase the Guthook app — to search out off-trail water within the desert.
Although I handled this pipe water, it did look and odor nice in April.
Water is scarce. Researchers use watering holes to verify on the well being of mammals within the space.
Profitable within the desert are birds, snakes and lizards.
Down, down.
Into the timber.
Right here’s the place PCT hikers typically get their water. GIFTS from Path Angels.
I lastly reached the first street. Would the mini-resupply I’d hung in a tree nonetheless be there?
YES!
I had sufficient meals for the ultimate 40 miles to Warner Springs. But I diverted one mile down the freeway to famed Paradise Cafe.
My camp gasoline was working low. I didn’t suppose I may make it two extra days.
Sadly Paradise doesn’t promote camp gasoline. I returned to the path hoping my Jetboil Flash would run on fumes.
Again on the PCT, I made it one other couple of miles.
It regarded like wind and rain so I arrange my damaged tent excessive sufficient within the wash to keep away from flash flood.
As I feared, my range gasoline ran out earlier than I may boil water for dinner. 😞
___ day 7
Climate forecast for at present was for rain and really massive winds. Not good.
I began south. Stopped. Then rotated and headed again in the direction of Paradise.
Skipping the subsequent 40 miles meant lacking many of the desert wildflower bloom. Too dangerous.
Three causes for quitting on my meant route:
damaged tent
no range gasoline
climate forecast
The restaurant was packed. As typical.
I ended up seated with a vacationer couple from Philly. As they had been headed for Palm Springs I supplied to pay for breakfast in alternate for a carry to city.
My PCT week was over. After breakfast.
Regardless of glitches — I actually loved climbing southbound on the PCT throughout peak season. The spotlight was seeing lots of and talking with dozens of regular individuals whom — for one cause or one other — needed to attempt to hike from Mexico to Canada.
They’re inspiring.
