There was no warm up period to the hike this morning. It started climbing and continued climbing. The only time the trail went down was so it could go back up again. I'm thinking the minds behind the trail must have really thought they were clever designing a trail to go up one side of a hill and then down the other.
Along with the climbing, the wind was an issue most of the day. The picture below was taken this morning when I THOT it was cold and windy. It got much more so.
I hiked again with Thirsty Boots for awhile, and leapfrogged with several others throughout the day.
I still have no appetite, and the thought of most foods is not appealing. I gotta get this figured out because I'm plowing through the calories and I need fuel.
The highest point of the trail today was just shy of 9000 feet. It was high enough to see a little snow! The scenery was just beautiful. In reality, i probably missed some good views because i had my head down concentrating on the trail, or was just too oxygen-starved to care. I didn't take too many pictures because it was just too windy.
Mom and Dad planned a last minute trip to come see me in Idyllwild. With the lack of reliable cell service it's amazing we were able to make this work. Can you believe they were walking up to the trailhead as I was walking out?!? It was so good to see them. I hadn't realized how tough today was going to be. It made their visit even more meaningful.
There is a side trail into Idyllwild from the PCT. It's 2.6 miles and drops from 8100 to 6500 feet. Even downhill is tough on tired feet. The worst part however is knowing that it will need to be reversed on Tuesday morning. Following the climb to the return to the PCT, the trail continues to climb to nearly 9000 feet again.
Back to the good part of the story... Mom and Dad got a cabin in Idyllwild for two nites. The area is expecting thunder storms, rain, and snow. No time to be on the trail! I got to shower, wear cotton clothes, go to dinner (Mexican food of course for cinco de mayo), and now I'm in a soft, warm bed. Ahhhhhh...zzzzzz
Sweet dreams.....
ReplyDeleteEnjoy your warm bed and a bit of TLC from your parents! Thank you for including us in your journey -- I look forward to your posts and your "checkins" at night..
ReplyDeleteHang in there Ginger! I know that trail is not east on San Jacinto. I swear the trail master was drunk when designing it. Up and down, up and down, up and down. That trail is tougher than most parts of the Sierras in my opinion. I hope your appetite returns soon.
ReplyDeleteTake Care,
Drake
Bet a shower, a soft bed, a good meal and having your mom & dad spend a day with you will be just the break you're needing. It's really nice that most days we get an update from you. Happy hiking tomorrow.
ReplyDeleteWow - I'm just so amazed that you are hiking the PCT! I love reading your blog! I'm praying for you and look forward to your updates!
ReplyDeleteSue D.
Ughhh....was so hoping to see an update from you today. Praying that things at least dried out by the time you needed to set up your tent. Praying you had a good day and for some dry weather tomorrow!!
ReplyDeleteGinger
ReplyDeleteGreat blog.
Thinking of you and saying prayers for a safe journey
you are an inspiration to us all
Suzanna Keith
@skconcepts
techandtravelmom.com
Hi Ginger,
ReplyDeleteOkay, I am officially "linked" back into the world. Day 10 after Chemo #3. I needed to "escape my isolation", so John and I sneaked off to have lunch at PFChang's yesterday...saw T.J. at the Valet applying for a job!! Gave him a big hug! He looks awesome and I realized how much I miss you! Sue and I walked this morning sending all kinds of positive energy to you as you progress on your journey. Thanks for the pics and the stories, V.
Go Mama go! Love you! Kate
ReplyDeleteYou're doing great! Do you have a 'trail name' already? Aunt Gerrie
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