Two All-Beef Patties, Special Sauce...

There is no problem coming up with a high point of trail life today. That would be the McDonalds and Best Western at I-15 in Cajon Pass, CA. It's a good guess that every thru-hiker walks the .4 mile off trail to visit this McDonalds. Some hang out there for hours. It's worth it alone for the unlimited refills on cold soda--such a luxury!

And speaking of luxury, the pillows at the Best Western have me wondering if the addition of a full-sized pillow would be a reasonable addition to my backpack. 

I was off slowly again this morning. I came stumbling in last nite and water for today was close to the last thing on my mind. So, first thing to tend to this morning was water. I had a tough time getting water at the stagnant creek near my campsite so I did my best and hoped it would be enough. I was very happy to find a water cache not far up the trail. There were warm sodas and some snacks too. 

I got a little lost around the base of a dam, but eventually found the trail along a road. Go figure. One of the nation's most scenic trails and today it followed a road and went under two large power structures. 

The trail went by a large lake today. I think it was the largest body of water seen to date on the trail.  Funny that the hikers were all very aware of how much water we needed to get us through the day as we hiked by this lake. 

Lunch today was interesting. I came across a small, unexpected stream and used the occasion to top off my water and grab a bite to eat. I started with a Payday and ended with a Snickers. Sorry, Mom. I had pulled out a chicken lunch this morning but the ease and speed of the candy bars won out. Thank goodness there was a Big Mac at the end of the day to round out my nutrition!

The wind made another appearance. It was so crazy windy at one point that I swear I tried to take a couple steps and the wind pushed my feet down to the same spot where I lifted them. It was worst shortly before reaching I-15 which made the McDonalds reward that much sweeter.