Robert Francisco

Destination: Highway 2 – Wrightwood

Starting Location: Guffy CampgroundToday’s Miles: 4.90

Trip Miles: 369.80

Guffy Campground (364.6, 8225) to Highway 2 (369.5, 7386) ascent (781) descent (1667) NERO

After wrapping ourselves in our tents at 3:00 a.m., we reluctantly got up at 5:00 a.m. to rain and hail. So much for sleeping in and having a leisurely walk to the highway to meet our buddies Daniel & Dean (PCTA Communicator volunteers) at 11:00 a.m. Instead it was throw everything into the pack, put on rain gear and hike fast to warm up. We reached the highway at 8:00 a.m. and a local who was dropping off some hikers gave us a ride into Wrightwood. Sugar Daddy took the alternate route into town to ensure he made it to church on time. Because of our good fortune with the ride we arrived a few minutes after him.

Being in Wrightwood is nostalgic as I spent several years of high school here and in the adjacent town of Phelan. We used to say we went to Phelan (pronounced “feelin”) High. On the trail above town, I could see our old home and the myriad trails I ran for cross country and track training. In town we ate breakfast at the diner where I had my first job as a dishwasher and ultimately short order cook. I went to the fire station and remembered the men that influenced me greatly and ultimately contributed to my joining the Marines. And most odd was going to Phelan to do our laundry and seeing Walde Pharmacy. In high school I was crazy for the daughter of the pharmacy owner but never had any luck getting her to reciprocate the feeling for the 6’2″ 135 pound runner. She is doing great and found what she was looking for.

The storm that caught us is supposed to intensify with snow down to 6,000 feet, so we are going to take a zero tomorrow. We already have our laundry done and have gone to the hardware store for some repair items, so eating, socializing and grocery shopping is all we “have” to do.

Several of us are thinking that our shoes are beginning to break down. The conventional wisdom is 500 miles per pair but with packs that may be expecting too much and thus I have ordered a new pair and we likely look to replace mine on a 400 mile schedule.

A lot of hikers came in after us and the Yodeler (Wrightwood bar/pizza parlor) was packed with ravenous hikers. People here are really hiker friendly. We asked for directions to a pay phone and a gentleman immediately pulled out his cell phone and insisted we could call anyone we wanted. When I walked into Mountain Hardware the woman behind the counter welcomed me to town, asked me to sign the register and followed me around the store until I had what I needed. I am glad to see the hikers before us represented our community well, and the good folks of Wrightwood are reciprocating.

Once again we were the beneficiaries of great generosity from trail angels. Daniel & Dean drove all the way from Tujunga to Wrightwood to deliver our order from Trader Joes and take us to the laundromat. Hope to see them again in Agua Dulce.

Destination: Highway 2 – Wrightwood

Starting Location: Guffy CampgroundToday’s Miles: 4.90

Trip Miles: 369.80

Guffy Campground (364.6, 8225) to Highway 2 (369.5, 7386) ascent (781) descent (1667) NERO

After wrapping ourselves in our tents at 3:00 a.m., we reluctantly got up at 5:00 a.m. to rain and hail. So much for sleeping in and having a leisurely walk to the highway to meet our buddies Daniel & Dean (PCTA Communicator volunteers) at 11:00 a.m. Instead it was throw everything into the pack, put on rain gear and hike fast to warm up. We reached the highway at 8:00 a.m. and a local who was dropping off some hikers gave us a ride into Wrightwood. Sugar Daddy took the alternate route into town to ensure he made it to church on time. Because of our good fortune with the ride we arrived a few minutes after him.

Being in Wrightwood is nostalgic as I spent several years of high school here and in the adjacent town of Phelan. We used to say we went to Phelan (pronounced “feelin”) High. On the trail above town, I could see our old home and the myriad trails I ran for cross country and track training. In town we ate breakfast at the diner where I had my first job as a dishwasher and ultimately short order cook. I went to the fire station and remembered the men that influenced me greatly and ultimately contributed to my joining the Marines. And most odd was going to Phelan to do our laundry and seeing Walde Pharmacy. In high school I was crazy for the daughter of the pharmacy owner but never had any luck getting her to reciprocate the feeling for the 6’2″ 135 pound runner. She is doing great and found what she was looking for.

The storm that caught us is supposed to intensify with snow down to 6,000 feet, so we are going to take a zero tomorrow. We already have our laundry done and have gone to the hardware store for some repair items, so eating, socializing and grocery shopping is all we “have” to do.

Several of us are thinking that our shoes are beginning to break down. The conventional wisdom is 500 miles per pair but with packs that may be expecting too much and thus I have ordered a new pair and we likely look to replace mine on a 400 mile schedule.

A lot of hikers came in after us and the Yodeler (Wrightwood bar/pizza parlor) was packed with ravenous hikers. People here are really hiker friendly. We asked for directions to a pay phone and a gentleman immediately pulled out his cell phone and insisted we could call anyone we wanted. When I walked into Mountain Hardware the woman behind the counter welcomed me to town, asked me to sign the register and followed me around the store until I had what I needed. I am glad to see the hikers before us represented our community well, and the good folks of Wrightwood are reciprocating.

Once again we were the beneficiaries of great generosity from trail angels. Daniel & Dean drove all the way from Tujunga to Wrightwood to deliver our order from Trader Joes and take us to the laundromat. Hope to see them again in Agua Dulce.

Destination: Guffy Campground

Starting Location: I-15 Cajon Pass

Today’s Miles: 22.50

Trip Miles: 364.90

I-15 Cajon Pass (342.1, 3000) to Guffy Campground (364.6, 8225) ascent (8192) descent (2907)

We needed a break and we got one. We had heard from Loris Ann & Bob that the temperature was supposed to drop 10 degrees and it did. This made climbing the 8000 + feet with 6 liters of water doable. However we got a bit more than we bargained for when we reached the ridge above Wrightwood. The wind was gusting at 60+ mph. We started looking aloft often to enusre the trees were not being up rooted as we were literally blown off the trail. Staying at Guffy Camp was impossible so we dropped down the north slope to seek shelter. Nothing flat so we are bedded down on the upslope side of large trees, and Liz & I found a trench on a 20% slope. The wind is howling above us. Cadence and Weed are above us behind two matching trees and just when we got in our bags they unloaded on us with a pine cone barrage. We tried to defend our position but they have a huge plunging fire advantage and we took a serious beating. I finally quit returning fire as it was useless and buried myself in my bag as best as I could.

It is pretty obvious that a low pressure is causing the temperature drop and the wind. Given our situation, I really hope it does not rain tonight. If it does it is going to be even more interesting.

The 24 hour contrast is amazing. Yesterday we were sweltering and tonight we are all in our bags shivering. I am wishing I had those misplaced gloves as I write this with a shaking hand.

We got another break this morning as Sugar Daddy’s buddy Phil came up to Cajon from the valley last night and was willing to get out of bed at 4:00 a.m. and take us to McDonalds for a 5:00 a.m. breakfast. Phil hiked with us for about an hour, shot some photos, and headed for home.

Okay. Too cold to write another sentence, going deeper inside the 15 degree Marmot EQ Helium sleeping bag.

P.S. It rained.

P.P.S. It hailed and it got interesting.

Destination: Guffy Campground

Starting Location: I-15 Cajon Pass

Today’s Miles: 22.50

Trip Miles: 364.90

I-15 Cajon Pass (342.1, 3000) to Guffy Campground (364.6, 8225) ascent (8192) descent (2907)

We needed a break and we got one. We had heard from Loris Ann & Bob that the temperature was supposed to drop 10 degrees and it did. This made climbing the 8000 + feet with 6 liters of water doable. However we got a bit more than we bargained for when we reached the ridge above Wrightwood. The wind was gusting at 60+ mph. We started looking aloft often to enusre the trees were not being up rooted as we were literally blown off the trail. Staying at Guffy Camp was impossible so we dropped down the north slope to seek shelter. Nothing flat so we are bedded down on the upslope side of large trees, and Liz & I found a trench on a 20% slope. The wind is howling above us. Cadence and Weed are above us behind two matching trees and just when we got in our bags they unloaded on us with a pine cone barrage. We tried to defend our position but they have a huge plunging fire advantage and we took a serious beating. I finally quit returning fire as it was useless and buried myself in my bag as best as I could.

It is pretty obvious that a low pressure is causing the temperature drop and the wind. Given our situation, I really hope it does not rain tonight. If it does it is going to be even more interesting.

The 24 hour contrast is amazing. Yesterday we were sweltering and tonight we are all in our bags shivering. I am wishing I had those misplaced gloves as I write this with a shaking hand.

We got another break this morning as Sugar Daddy’s buddy Phil came up to Cajon from the valley last night and was willing to get out of bed at 4:00 a.m. and take us to McDonalds for a 5:00 a.m. breakfast. Phil hiked with us for about an hour, shot some photos, and headed for home.

Okay. Too cold to write another sentence, going deeper inside the 15 degree Marmot EQ Helium sleeping bag.

P.S. It rained.

P.P.S. It hailed and it got interesting.

Destination: I-15 Cajon Pass

Starting Location: Group Camp at Silverwood Lake

Today’s Miles: 13.10

Trip Miles: 342.40

Group Camp Silverwood (329.0, 3440) to I-15 Cajon Pass (342.1, 3000) ascent (1680) descent (2024)

Two all beef patties, special sauce, lettuce, cheese, pickles, onion, on a sesame seed bun. Actually I had two cheese burgers, 10 piece Chicken McNuggets, french fries, lemonade & a chocolate shake. Oh yea, then I went next door and had a Haagen Daz ice cream bar. Oh yea again, then I had a bag of Frito Scoops with salsa. Please tell my doctors that I am following their recommendations to the letter. I remember talking to Triple Crown (PCT, AT, CDT) hiker Brian Robinson who said he was going to subtitle his book “The 6000 calorie a day diet”. He figured it would sell more copies.

Relatively easy hike in this morning but after the last few days I was a bit beat up. Mostly sore feet with a potential concern that my metatarsel on my left foot may be dropping and putting pressure on the ball of my feet. This is apparently common and can potentially be problematic. Will monitor for now. My big toe on my right foot is also completely numb. It is wierd as you can stick a needle into it and it maintains a tingling numb feeling.

Our group stayed together today but may split up tomorrow as Sugar Daddy is on a tighter schedule and may need to press harder. Like we are not pressing hard already. I will be bummed if we split up as we are having a good time together. During a less than scenic area, as we approached the I-15 freeway, we discussed whether Taoism and Budhism were philosophies or religions. Cadence and Lucky Liz started calling Sugar Daddy, Weed and I the three philosophers.

If you are wondering how a missionary got the name Sugar Daddy it is because he was trying to away 5 lbs of sugar at the ADZPCTKO. I like to call him the preacher of Vic the Baptist. He told us yesterday that he could also be a sugar daddy because he evangelized and thus offered eternal life. Weed & I had a good time with that one and one reason Sugar Daddy agreed to stay with us was because we told him that trying to convert heathens like us was likely more important than making it to church on Sunday.

We are trying to change Cadence’s name to Grocery Store because she carried a “lot” of food. She is having nothing to do with it however and she darn sure does not slow down with the extra weight.

T-minus is here and is jumping ahead to Wrightwood. She is feeling good and we will likely do some hiking together next week.

Coming into civilization was tough today. Our previous stops have been small towns but today we are at an off ramp of a major Southern California freeway. The fumes, traffic and people have been a bit overwhelming.

I think we are making the long distance hiker shift. As Liz and I ate breakfast the other morning, Cadence was working on Sugar Daddy’s feet and we thought nothing of it. Social constructs break down quickly as you attend to the most basic needs…food and well being in this case.

Destination: I-15 Cajon Pass

Starting Location: Group Camp at Silverwood Lake

Today’s Miles: 13.10

Trip Miles: 342.40

Group Camp Silverwood (329.0, 3440) to I-15 Cajon Pass (342.1, 3000) ascent (1680) descent (2024)

Two all beef patties, special sauce, lettuce, cheese, pickles, onion, on a sesame seed bun. Actually I had two cheese burgers, 10 piece Chicken McNuggets, french fries, lemonade & a chocolate shake. Oh yea, then I went next door and had a Haagen Daz ice cream bar. Oh yea again, then I had a bag of Frito Scoops with salsa. Please tell my doctors that I am following their recommendations to the letter. I remember talking to Triple Crown (PCT, AT, CDT) hiker Brian Robinson who said he was going to subtitle his book “The 6000 calorie a day diet”. He figured it would sell more copies.

Relatively easy hike in this morning but after the last few days I was a bit beat up. Mostly sore feet with a potential concern that my metatarsel on my left foot may be dropping and putting pressure on the ball of my feet. This is apparently common and can potentially be problematic. Will monitor for now. My big toe on my right foot is also completely numb. It is wierd as you can stick a needle into it and it maintains a tingling numb feeling.

Our group stayed together today but may split up tomorrow as Sugar Daddy is on a tighter schedule and may need to press harder. Like we are not pressing hard already. I will be bummed if we split up as we are having a good time together. During a less than scenic area, as we approached the I-15 freeway, we discussed whether Taoism and Budhism were philosophies or religions. Cadence and Lucky Liz started calling Sugar Daddy, Weed and I the three philosophers.

If you are wondering how a missionary got the name Sugar Daddy it is because he was trying to away 5 lbs of sugar at the ADZPCTKO. I like to call him the preacher of Vic the Baptist. He told us yesterday that he could also be a sugar daddy because he evangelized and thus offered eternal life. Weed & I had a good time with that one and one reason Sugar Daddy agreed to stay with us was because we told him that trying to convert heathens like us was likely more important than making it to church on Sunday.

We are trying to change Cadence’s name to Grocery Store because she carried a “lot” of food. She is having nothing to do with it however and she darn sure does not slow down with the extra weight.

T-minus is here and is jumping ahead to Wrightwood. She is feeling good and we will likely do some hiking together next week.

Coming into civilization was tough today. Our previous stops have been small towns but today we are at an off ramp of a major Southern California freeway. The fumes, traffic and people have been a bit overwhelming.

I think we are making the long distance hiker shift. As Liz and I ate breakfast the other morning, Cadence was working on Sugar Daddy’s feet and we thought nothing of it. Social constructs break down quickly as you attend to the most basic needs…food and well being in this case.

Destination: Group Camp at Silverwood Lake

Starting Location: Deep Creek Hot Springs

Today’s Miles: 22.40

Trip Miles: 329.30

Deer Creek Hot Springs (306.6, 3535) to Group Camp at Silverwood Lake (329.0, 3440) ascent (2688) descent (2406)

Today was a day of extreme contrast. We started this morning and quickly caught a fellow hiker who was in such pain from shin splints that they were crying as they worked their way out of the backcountry to the nearest road.   We offered what help we could which was little physical but rather moral support. It is very likely this person’s hike is over.   We ended the day with absolute spontaneous laughter. Here we are 5 people from very diverse backgrounds and we are laughing so hard we are snorting.   And if you had not just hiked the very hot miles with us you would likely think we were nuts.

We also had what Weed described as a beetour. We came to a point in the trail that was cordoned off with high visibility tape and a big box with a ominous message about “Bees swarming, go around”.

Destination: Group Camp at Silverwood Lake

Starting Location: Deep Creek Hot Springs

Today’s Miles: 22.40

Trip Miles: 329.30

Deer Creek Hot Springs (306.6, 3535) to Group Camp at Silverwood Lake (329.0, 3440) ascent (2688) descent (2406)

Today was a day of extreme contrast. We started this morning and quickly caught a fellow hiker who was in such pain from shin splints that they were crying as they worked their way out of the backcountry to the nearest road.   We offered what help we could which was little physical but rather moral support. It is very likely this person’s hike is over.   We ended the day with absolute spontaneous laughter. Here we are 5 people from very diverse backgrounds and we are laughing so hard we are snorting.   And if you had not just hiked the very hot miles with us you would likely think we were nuts.

We also had what Weed described as a beetour. We came to a point in the trail that was cordoned off with high visibility tape and a big box with a ominous message about “Bees swarming, go around”.

Destination: Deep Creek Hot Springs

Starting Location: Little Bear Springs s

Today’ Miles: 22.00

Trip Miles: 306.90

Little Bear Springs Trail Camp (284.6, 6600) to Deep Creek Hot Springs (306.6, 3535) ascent (1703) descent (4531)

Sadly as earlier reported we got confirmation this afternoon that a fellow hiker named No Way Ray died on the trail as the result of a falling accident near Deep Creek.   We had originally understood that the accident was at the crossing but that information was an incorrect assumption on our part. I met Ray and his wife Alice 8 miles south of Mt Laguna.   We ate a snack and Ray expressed his enthusiasm for the trail and this year’s hike. Now he is gone and my heart goes out to Alice.

Today was tough as we hiked for 10.5 hours. We agreed to rendezvous at the Deep Creek crossing for safety reasons that were unfounded.   Sugar Daddy crossed on the damaged bridge rail that was totally doable. Cadence, Weed, Lucky Liz and I walked across a sand bar and then went back in to swim & cool off.   We got to Deep Creek Hot Springs early enough to take a wonderful soak in the natural pools followed by a refreshing swim. I was pleasantly embarrassed as I walked around a corner to see an attractive young woman walking the other direction fully nude.   We exchanged pleasantries as we passed and yes I did turn around to verify that she was indeed nude from the back also. She was.

I have gone stove less. I did not like the mush in a cup meals I was cooking, so I departed with my homemade alcohol stove in Big Bear.   I will likely get another one for the Sierra & very likely for Northern Washington where it will be cold and hot food will be a great motivator.   For now I love the convenience of no stove as well as enjoying the food I am eating. For dinner I had a bagel with peanut butter followed by smoked salmon and pepper jack cheese wrapped in a flour tortilla.   Weed offered me $20.00 for my burrito as he cooked something dehydrated. Not for sale was my reply. Weed says he is dropping his stove as soon as we hit Cajon Pass. We are sleeping on the beach next to the river and the scene is pretty amazing.

Saw our first trout of the trip at Holcomb Creek. They were rising infrequently to a small midge hatch and they would have potentially (you just never know) been caught had I had a fly rod.   It was good to see trout. They need cold clean water and when you find them in the wild it is typically a nice environment.   I love trout and what they represent.

As we hiked today we had a thoughtful conversation about God according to the literalist interpretation of the Bible.   Sugar Daddy is a Baptist missionary living in Peru. He is not at all apologetic for his views that the Bible is the Word of God and it should be interpreted literally.   While I do not agree I absolutely respect and admire the conviction of his faith and immensely enjoyed the dialog. And it was dialog, not debate.

Destination: Deep Creek Hot Springs

Starting Location: Little Bear Springs

Today’ Miles: 22.00

Trip Miles: 306.90

Little Bear Springs Trail Camp (284.6, 6600) to Deep Creek Hot Springs (306.6, 3535) ascent (1703) descent (4531)

Sadly as earlier reported we got confirmation this afternoon that a fellow hiker named No Way Ray died on the trail as the result of a falling accident near Deep Creek.   We had originally understood that the accident was at the crossing but that information was an incorrect assumption on our part. I met Ray and his wife Alice 8 miles south of Mt Laguna.   We ate a snack and Ray expressed his enthusiasm for the trail and this year’s hike. Now he is gone and my heart goes out to Alice.

Today was tough as we hiked for 10.5 hours. We agreed to rendezvous at the Deep Creek crossing for safety reasons that were unfounded.   Sugar Daddy crossed on the damaged bridge rail that was totally doable. Cadence, Weed, Lucky Liz and I walked across a sand bar and then went back in to swim & cool off.   We got to Deep Creek Hot Springs early enough to take a wonderful soak in the natural pools followed by a refreshing swim. I was pleasantly embarrassed as I walked around a corner to see an attractive young woman walking the other direction fully nude.   We exchanged pleasantries as we passed and yes I did turn around to verify that she was indeed nude from the back also. She was.

I have gone stove less. I did not like the mush in a cup meals I was cooking, so I departed with my homemade alcohol stove in Big Bear.   I will likely get another one for the Sierra & very likely for Northern Washington where it will be cold and hot food will be a great motivator.   For now I love the convenience of no stove as well as enjoying the food I am eating. For dinner I had a bagel with peanut butter followed by smoked salmon and pepper jack cheese wrapped in a flour tortilla.   Weed offered me $20.00 for my burrito as he cooked something dehydrated. Not for sale was my reply. Weed says he is dropping his stove as soon as we hit Cajon Pass. We are sleeping on the beach next to the river and the scene is pretty amazing.

Saw our first trout of the trip at Holcomb Creek. They were rising infrequently to a small midge hatch and they would have potentially (you just never know) been caught had I had a fly rod.   It was good to see trout. They need cold clean water and when you find them in the wild it is typically a nice environment.   I love trout and what they represent.

As we hiked today we had a thoughtful conversation about God according to the literalist interpretation of the Bible.   Sugar Daddy is a Baptist missionary living in Peru. He is not at all apologetic for his views that the Bible is the Word of God and it should be interpreted literally.   While I do not agree I absolutely respect and admire the conviction of his faith and immensely enjoyed the dialog. And it was dialog, not debate.

Destination: Little Bear Springs

Starting Location: Highway 18 at Big Bear

Today’s Miles: 19.30

Trip Miles: 284.90

Highway 18 (265.3, 6829 to Little Bear Springs (284.6, 6600) ascent (2306) descent (2444)

Jim & Jackie said they don’t get up this early for just anyone. We asked to be at the trail head by 7:00 a.m., and we had to pick up Cadence and drive an hour back to the trail. So the alarms went off early and we were hiking at 7:05. Jim decided to join us and lead the way for 12 miles.   He then took a side trail down to meet Jackie. He set a blistering pace and when he left we all agreed we want to hike like Jim when we grow up.   Really enjoyed hiking with Cadence today and when we got to Bear Springs camp our buddies Weed and Sugar Daddy were getting ready to head out. We convinced them to hang out with us after we agreed to go 22 miles to Deep Creek Hot Springs tomorrow. We had a great evening showing each other pictures and teaching each other digital camera tricks.

Some of you reading this have posted words of encouragement and questions regarding my trip. First thank you for the kind words.   Second, I will try to answer your questions best I can.

One question from Nancy, Gary & Katie was: Do your thoughts/thinking change as you hike long distances?   I am not sure yet, but it seems that a certain level of meditation kicks in and your mind can actually get really quiet while hiking for hours. On several occasions I have realized that the constant chatter in my brain was really quiet and I realized I had literally not been thinking. Another thing that happens is your priorities are drastically altered.   Water has been the best example so far. Think about it; when have you ever been concerned about such a basic requirement?   On the trail we have been concerned and grateful on a daily basis. And I think this will likely change my thinking.

Nick, thanks for the fishing report. If you can loan a rod we should cast a fly on the McCloud when I come through Mt Shasta around August 1st.

Destination: Little Bear Springs

Starting Location: Highway 18 at Big Bear

Today’s Miles: 19.30

Trip Miles: 284.90

Highway 18 (265.3, 6829 to Little Bear Springs (284.6, 6600) ascent (2306) descent (2444)

Jim & Jackie said they don’t get up this early for just anyone. We asked to be at the trail head by 7:00 a.m., and we had to pick up Cadence and drive an hour back to the trail. So the alarms went off early and we were hiking at 7:05. Jim decided to join us and lead the way for 12 miles.   He then took a side trail down to meet Jackie. He set a blistering pace and when he left we all agreed we want to hike like Jim when we grow up.   Really enjoyed hiking with Cadence today and when we got to Bear Springs camp our buddies Weed and Sugar Daddy were getting ready to head out. We convinced them to hang out with us after we agreed to go 22 miles to Deep Creek Hot Springs tomorrow. We had a great evening showing each other pictures and teaching each other digital camera tricks.

Some of you reading this have posted words of encouragement and questions regarding my trip. First thank you for the kind words.   Second, I will try to answer your questions best I can.

One question from Nancy, Gary & Katie was: Do your thoughts/thinking change as you hike long distances?   I am not sure yet, but it seems that a certain level of meditation kicks in and your mind can actually get really quiet while hiking for hours. On several occasions I have realized that the constant chatter in my brain was really quiet and I realized I had literally not been thinking. Another thing that happens is your priorities are drastically altered.   Water has been the best example so far. Think about it; when have you ever been concerned about such a basic requirement?   On the trail we have been concerned and grateful on a daily basis. And I think this will likely change my thinking.

Nick, thanks for the fishing report. If you can loan a rod we should cast a fly on the McCloud when I come through Mt Shasta around August 1st.

Destination: Highway 18 at Big Bear

Starting Location: Arrastre Trail Camp at Deer Springs

Today’s Miles: 9.70

Trip Miles: 265.60

Trail Camp at Deer Springs (255.9, 7605) to Highway 18 at Big Bear (265.3), 6829) ascent 300, descent 1100

Nero! Broke out cowboy camp quickly and headed for town. We soon ran into Jim Manning, our Big Bear trail angel who walked us out to the highway and a cooler of refreshments. Walking with Jim was great as he has an excellent knowledge of the local natural history. Cadence and Star caught a ride into town with us and then to the grocery store. We then went to Running Springs with Jim and met up with his wife, Jackie. Jackie is Liz’s former Geology Professor from 23 years ago. Jim & Jackie are great. They have hiked extensively and published several hiking books. Jim is going to hike with us for part of the day tomorrow. He is 73 years old, never walked a mile before he was 60, keeps up a four mile per hour pace now and has hiked over 30,000 miles since he retired including the entire PCT.

We had the most pleasant afternoon visiting with Jim & Jackie while we organized our gear, washed clothes and simply relaxed. For dinner we enjoyed home made vegetable soup as our entrée. Incredible and just what our bodies needed.

We are leaving early in the morning and have six days of food with us. The food is heavy but the water situation is a bit more kind for the first few days of this leg, and the climbs and descents are very manageable compared to the huge roller coaster we just walked.

Saw T-minus and she is doing well. She believes she was suffering from the heat and she is back on the trail tomorrow where she got off. I am really happy for her. Oh what terible news. Liz just heard that a hiker I met and someone I coresponded with before the hike died near Deep Creek. I do not have the details or confirmation so I do not want to share any more at this time. But damn that sucks.

Destination: Highway 18 at Big Bear

Starting Location: Arrastre Trail Camp at Deer Springs

Today’s Miles: 9.70

Trip Miles: 265.60

Trail Camp at Deer Springs (255.9, 7605) to Highway 18 at Big Bear (265.3), 6829) ascent 300, descent 1100

Nero! Broke out cowboy camp quickly and headed for town. We soon ran into Jim Manning, our Big Bear trail angel who walked us out to the highway and a cooler of refreshments. Walking with Jim was great as he has an excellent knowledge of the local natural history. Cadence and Star caught a ride into town with us and then to the grocery store. We then went to Running Springs with Jim and met up with his wife, Jackie. Jackie is Liz’s former Geology Professor from 23 years ago. Jim & Jackie are great. They have hiked extensively and published several hiking books. Jim is going to hike with us for part of the day tomorrow. He is 73 years old, never walked a mile before he was 60, keeps up a four mile per hour pace now and has hiked over 30,000 miles since he retired including the entire PCT.

We had the most pleasant afternoon visiting with Jim & Jackie while we organized our gear, washed clothes and simply relaxed. For dinner we enjoyed home made vegetable soup as our entrée. Incredible and just what our bodies needed.

We are leaving early in the morning and have six days of food with us. The food is heavy but the water situation is a bit more kind for the first few days of this leg, and the climbs and descents are very manageable compared to the huge roller coaster we just walked.

Saw T-minus and she is doing well. She believes she was suffering from the heat and she is back on the trail tomorrow where she got off. I am really happy for her. Oh what terible news. Liz just heard that a hiker I met and someone I coresponded with before the hike died near Deep Creek. I do not have the details or confirmation so I do not want to share any more at this time. But damn that sucks.

Destination: Arrastre Trail Camp at Deer Springs

Starting Location: Creekside Camp

Today’s Miles: 20.90

Trip Miles: 255.90

Creekside Camp (235.0, 6110) to Arrastre Trail Camp at Deer Springs (255.9, 7605) ascent (4429) descent (2841)

As it is Mother’s Day I spent a lot of time thinking about mom today. I have the best mom in the world. I know she is concerned for my well being on this trip as she has been during my entire life. And yet she has always supported me in everything I have attempted. She has applauded my successes and helped me overcome my failures. And she put up with a lot of crap when I was a teenager. I also thought about Rita (my mother in law) today who unfortunately is no longer with us. She was quite the lady and welcomed me into her family with open arms.

Today was tough as we had a 17 mile waterless stretch. I was very thankful for our decision to carry a slightly heavier pack (ULA, P-2) as I loaded up 6 liters of water. The extra support this pack provides is worth the weight and it carried 20 lbs beautifully.

Having spent significant time in the Sierra Nevada, I have been less than complimentary about Southern California Mountains. That was a mistake, as I really like these mountains. What is particularly amazing is the rapid ecological transitions. This morning I was taking pictures of cactus and a few hours later I was in a dense sub alpine forest.

We had a very sad and emotional parting with T-minus late this afternoon when she decided to go to the highway and catch a ride to Big Bear. She is not feeling well and will take some time to recover. We have loved hiking with her and hope to do so again. We will look for her up in Big Bear tomorrow. Whenever anyone gets off the trail either temporarily or permanently my hear sinks out of empathy for that person and out of fear that it could happen to me.

Tonight we had our first large group of thru-hikers camping together. Throughout time people have congregated at water sources and on the trail it is no different. Everyone had to get to this water and when they did most stopped for the evening. It was fun eating together and getting to meet such an eclectic group of individuals

Destination: Arrastre Trail Camp at Deer Springs

Starting Location: Creekside Camp

Today’s Miles: 20.90

Trip Miles: 255.90

Creekside Camp (235.0, 6110) to Arrastre Trail Camp at Deer Springs (255.9, 7605) ascent (4429) descent (2841)

As it is Mother’s Day I spent a lot of time thinking about mom today. I have the best mom in the world. I know she is concerned for my well being on this trip as she has been during my entire life. And yet she has always supported me in everything I have attempted. She has applauded my successes and helped me overcome my failures. And she put up with a lot of crap when I was a teenager. I also thought about Rita (my mother in law) today who unfortunately is no longer with us. She was quite the lady and welcomed me into her family with open arms.

Today was tough as we had a 17 mile waterless stretch. I was very thankful for our decision to carry a slightly heavier pack (ULA, P-2) as I loaded up 6 liters of water. The extra support this pack provides is worth the weight and it carried 20 lbs beautifully.

Having spent significant time in the Sierra Nevada, I have been less than complimentary about Southern California Mountains. That was a mistake, as I really like these mountains. What is particularly amazing is the rapid ecological transitions. This morning I was taking pictures of cactus and a few hours later I was in a dense sub alpine forest.

We had a very sad and emotional parting with T-minus late this afternoon when she decided to go to the highway and catch a ride to Big Bear. She is not feeling well and will take some time to recover. We have loved hiking with her and hope to do so again. We will look for her up in Big Bear tomorrow. Whenever anyone gets off the trail either temporarily or permanently my hear sinks out of empathy for that person and out of fear that it could happen to me.

Tonight we had our first large group of thru-hikers camping together. Throughout time people have congregated at water sources and on the trail it is no different. Everyone had to get to this water and when they did most stopped for the evening. It was fun eating together and getting to meet such an eclectic group of individuals

Destination: Creekside Camp

Starting Location: Whitewater River

Today’s Miles: 15.00

Trip Miles: 235.00

Whitewater River (220.0, 2605) to Creekside Camp (235.0, 6110) ascent (4711), descent (1211)

What goes down must go up and we spent the day recovering the altitude we lost coming down San Jacinto. And it was real hot! Fortunately we followed Mission Creek for nearly the entire day and probably crossed it 20 times. This provided an opportunity for many hat and bandana dippings and even a few feet cooling sessions. The strategy worked until 2:30 when it simply became too hot to walk. We took a few hours in the shade and went on after 5:00 p.m. I probably drank 8 liters of water today and only went behind a tree 3 times. Our bodies are amazing and mine knew it needed to retain liquid in order to survive.

I am happy to report that I did not wear a knee brace today and I only took 800 mg of vitamin I. The knee is doing great now. The blisters are also under control and I am treating them with new skin (smells like clear finger nail polish and that is likely what it is) and coverings them with duct tape. They are drying out nicely and only sting on the down hills. My pre-existing stomach mystery is acting up a bit but within the realm of annoying rather than debilitating. Physically I am getting stronger and the body is adapting to the new stresses I am subjecting it to.

Some of my gear is not fairing as well. I have sun gloves, which I absolutely love because they actually keep my hands cooler and free of sunscreen. Unfortunately the manufacturer must be trying to save on the cost of thread because I have had to repair them several times. Fortunately, unlike conducting war, the Marines did teach me something useful; how to use a needle and thread.

I sent home my Patagonia R.5 shirt and tights as I am confident I will not need them until the Sierra. I intentionally brought extra clothes because I was really cold on the John Muir Trail (JMT) last fall and did not like the experience. Now that I have thought about it, the chance of it being 16 degrees with a 20 mph wind in Southern California in May is rather improbable. I managed to lose my gloves somewhere between Sacramento and Rancho Mirage (first time I noticed I did not have them). Liz will order me a new pair for the Sierra. I would like to be carrying them but I do have sleeping socks that will absolutely work in an emergency.

Oh yea the chay chay is nay nay (that’s trail talk). The new shorts are working well as the material rubs together versus my thighs. I think this problem is largely fixed. And besides the go-BIG fashion statement of wearing lycra is drawing great reviews.

I am using my altimeter much more for navigation than my compass. The PCT Data Book provides elevations for every location listed and some of the locations can be somewhat obscure. With an altimeter the challenge is solved. For example, tonight we were looking for the camp stops adjacent to the creek before you began an ascent away from the creek. Being that we knew the altitude we simply walked until we were clost and then started looking. It works remarkably well and is a great resource for this trail.

I have largely quit obsessing about thru-hiking the PCT. I have simply been planning my days around water and very short-term objectives. This is working well at keeping the focus on today and thus appreciating each day more for what it has to offer.

I also, after trying hard for 3 weeks, finally got a great photo of a horned lizard. We called them horny toads as a kid and like then I think are the coolest minature dinosaurs. Liz will post a lot of pictures when she gets home. I apologize for not having photos with the text but logistically it is simply something I am not up to on this hike. However, you can go to http://www.lindajeffers.com and see some great photos of the class of 2006. Click on Photos and “2006 Hikers I Met”.

We had the PCT version of the Amityville Horror this afternoon. The only difference was we were outside and the flys were really small. It was weird and they must have liked hiker b o because as we sweated up the trail we had a cloud of winged creatures with us.

Destination: Creekside Camp

Starting Location: Whitewater River

Today’s Miles: 15.00

Trip Miles: 235.00

Whitewater River (220.0, 2605) to Creekside Camp (235.0, 6110) ascent (4711), descent (1211)

What goes down must go up and we spent the day recovering the altitude we lost coming down San Jacinto. And it was real hot! Fortunately we followed Mission Creek for nearly the entire day and probably crossed it 20 times. This provided an opportunity for many hat and bandana dippings and even a few feet cooling sessions. The strategy worked until 2:30 when it simply became too hot to walk. We took a few hours in the shade and went on after 5:00 p.m. I probably drank 8 liters of water today and only went behind a tree 3 times. Our bodies are amazing and mine knew it needed to retain liquid in order to survive.

I am happy to report that I did not wear a knee brace today and I only took 800 mg of vitamin I. The knee is doing great now. The blisters are also under control and I am treating them with new skin (smells like clear finger nail polish and that is likely what it is) and coverings them with duct tape. They are drying out nicely and only sting on the down hills. My pre-existing stomach mystery is acting up a bit but within the realm of annoying rather than debilitating. Physically I am getting stronger and the body is adapting to the new stresses I am subjecting it to.

Some of my gear is not fairing as well. I have sun gloves, which I absolutely love because they actually keep my hands cooler and free of sunscreen. Unfortunately the manufacturer must be trying to save on the cost of thread because I have had to repair them several times. Fortunately, unlike conducting war, the Marines did teach me something useful; how to use a needle and thread.

I sent home my Patagonia R.5 shirt and tights as I am confident I will not need them until the Sierra. I intentionally brought extra clothes because I was really cold on the John Muir Trail (JMT) last fall and did not like the experience. Now that I have thought about it, the chance of it being 16 degrees with a 20 mph wind in Southern California in May is rather improbable. I managed to lose my gloves somewhere between Sacramento and Rancho Mirage (first time I noticed I did not have them). Liz will order me a new pair for the Sierra. I would like to be carrying them but I do have sleeping socks that will absolutely work in an emergency.

Oh yea the chay chay is nay nay (that’s trail talk). The new shorts are working well as the material rubs together versus my thighs. I think this problem is largely fixed. And besides the go-BIG fashion statement of wearing lycra is drawing great reviews.

I am using my altimeter much more for navigation than my compass. The PCT Data Book provides elevations for every location listed and some of the locations can be somewhat obscure. With an altimeter the challenge is solved. For example, tonight we were looking for the camp stops adjacent to the creek before you began an ascent away from the creek. Being that we knew the altitude we simply walked until we were clost and then started looking. It works remarkably well and is a great resource for this trail.

I have largely quit obsessing about thru-hiking the PCT. I have simply been planning my days around water and very short-term objectives. This is working well at keeping the focus on today and thus appreciating each day more for what it has to offer.

I also, after trying hard for 3 weeks, finally got a great photo of a horned lizard. We called them horny toads as a kid and like then I think are the coolest minature dinosaurs. Liz will post a lot of pictures when she gets home. I apologize for not having photos with the text but logistically it is simply something I am not up to on this hike. However, you can go to http://www.lindajeffers.com and see some great photos of the class of 2006. Click on Photos and “2006 Hikers I Met”.

We had the PCT version of the Amityville Horror this afternoon. The only difference was we were outside and the flys were really small. It was weird and they must have liked hiker b o because as we sweated up the trail we had a cloud of winged creatures with us.

Destination: Creekside Camp

Starting Location: Whitewater River

Today’s Miles: 15.00

Trip Miles: 235.00

Whitewater River (220.0, 2605) to Creekside Camp (235.0, 6110) ascent (4711), descent (1211)

What goes down must go up and we spent the day recovering the altitude we lost coming down San Jacinto. And it was real hot! Fortunately we followed Mission Creek for nearly the entire day and probably crossed it 20 times. This provided an opportunity for many hat and bandana dippings and even a few feet cooling sessions. The strategy worked until 2:30 when it simply became too hot to walk. We took a few hours in the shade and went on after 5:00 p.m. I probably drank 8 liters of water today and only went behind a tree 3 times. Our bodies are amazing and mine knew it needed to retain liquid in order to survive.

I am happy to report that I did not wear a knee brace today and I only took 800 mg of vitamin I. The knee is doing great now. The blisters are also under control and I am treating them with new skin (smells like clear finger nail polish and that is likely what it is) and coverings them with duct tape. They are drying out nicely and only sting on the down hills. My pre-existing stomach mystery is acting up a bit but within the realm of annoying rather than debilitating. Physically I am getting stronger and the body is adapting to the new stresses I am subjecting it to.

Some of my gear is not fairing as well. I have sun gloves, which I absolutely love because they actually keep my hands cooler and free of sunscreen. Unfortunately the manufacturer must be trying to save on the cost of thread because I have had to repair them several times. Fortunately, unlike conducting war, the Marines did teach me something useful; how to use a needle and thread.

I sent home my Patagonia R.5 shirt and tights as I am confident I will not need them until the Sierra. I intentionally brought extra clothes because I was really cold on the John Muir Trail (JMT) last fall and did not like the experience. Now that I have thought about it, the chance of it being 16 degrees with a 20 mph wind in Southern California in May is rather improbable. I managed to lose my gloves somewhere between Sacramento and Rancho Mirage (first time I noticed I did not have them). Liz will order me a new pair for the Sierra. I would like to be carrying them but I do have sleeping socks that will absolutely work in an emergency.

Oh yea the chay chay is nay nay (that’s trail talk). The new shorts are working well as the material rubs together versus my thighs. I think this problem is largely fixed. And besides the go-BIG fashion statement of wearing lycra is drawing great reviews.

I am using my altimeter much more for navigation than my compass. The PCT Data Book provides elevations for every location listed and some of the locations can be somewhat obscure. With an altimeter the challenge is solved. For example, tonight we were looking for the camp stops adjacent to the creek before you began an ascent away from the creek. Being that we knew the altitude we simply walked until we were clost and then started looking. It works remarkably well and is a great resource for this trail.

I have largely quit obsessing about thru-hiking the PCT. I have simply been planning my days around water and very short-term objectives. This is working well at keeping the focus on today and thus appreciating each day more for what it has to offer.

I also, after trying hard for 3 weeks, finally got a great photo of a horned lizard. We called them horny toads as a kid and like then I think are the coolest minature dinosaurs. Liz will post a lot of pictures when she gets home. I apologize for not having photos with the text but logistically it is simply something I am not up to on this hike. However, you can go to http://www.lindajeffers.com and see some great photos of the class of 2006. Click on Photos and “2006 Hikers I Met”.

We had the PCT version of the Amityville Horror this afternoon. The only difference was we were outside and the flys were really small. It was weird and they must have liked hiker b o because as we sweated up the trail we had a cloud of winged creatures with us.

Destination: Whitewater River

Starting Location: Tamarack Road

Today’s Miles: 10.40

Trip Miles: 220.00

Tamarack Road (209.6, 1360) to Whitewater River (220.0 2605) ascent (3150), descent (1950)

What an incredible day! Liz and Gottago left at 5:00 a.m. to deliver some hikers to the trail and I slept in until 7:00 a.m. What luxury. Then I had a wonderful morning with Ray drinking coffee and having a real conversation. When the gang reassembled we ate a wonderful home cooked breakfast and spent the hot hours of the day cleaning gear and getting organized. Our stay in Rancho Mirage was truly memorable and the hospitality of Ray and Gottago will be something I will always remember. Thank you very much.

We hit the trail at 4:00 p.m. and Gottago took some very hot and tired hikers to Cabazon after dropping us off. We headed up the trail with the thermometer exceeding 100 degrees. Fortunately we had a very gusty wind that provided good evaporative cooling. Within an hour the temperatures had begun to recede and when we got to the wind energy facility we were blessed with more trail magic as the facility staff had placed a note on the trail inviting us to get some water. And not just any water but an Igloo cooler full of ice water. No one was around to thank so we left a not of gratitude. We continued walking to the white water river under a full moon that cast beautiful shadows on the desert. We soaked our feet in the cool water of the river and I am now writing this under a magnificent sky as I lay on top of my bag in soft sand. What magic

Destination: Whitewater River

Starting Location: Tamarack Road

Today’s Miles: 10.40

Trip Miles: 220.00

Tamarack Road (209.6, 1360) to Whitewater River (220.0 2605) ascent (3150), descent (1950)

What an incredible day! Liz and Gottago left at 5:00 a.m. to deliver some hikers to the trail and I slept in until 7:00 a.m. What luxury. Then I had a wonderful morning with Ray drinking coffee and having a real conversation. When the gang reassembled we ate a wonderful home cooked breakfast and spent the hot hours of the day cleaning gear and getting organized. Our stay in Rancho Mirage was truly memorable and the hospitality of Ray and Gottago will be something I will always remember. Thank you very much.

We hit the trail at 4:00 p.m. and Gottago took some very hot and tired hikers to Cabazon after dropping us off. We headed up the trail with the thermometer exceeding 100 degrees. Fortunately we had a very gusty wind that provided good evaporative cooling. Within an hour the temperatures had begun to recede and when we got to the wind energy facility we were blessed with more trail magic as the facility staff had placed a note on the trail inviting us to get some water. And not just any water but an Igloo cooler full of ice water. No one was around to thank so we left a not of gratitude. We continued walking to the white water river under a full moon that cast beautiful shadows on the desert. We soaked our feet in the cool water of the river and I am now writing this under a magnificent sky as I lay on top of my bag in soft sand. What magic