Day 167: mile 808.6-826.3
Brrr! Can’t wait for my fleece pants to arrive. Slept in my hiking pants again as an additional layer. I’m still convinced September in the Sierra is the best time to be here, but damn is it cold! At the same time, who can complain with this view and some sunshine!?
I started my day with the 3 miles of downhill I’d intended on doing yesterday. That’s ok, better today when I can fully appreciate all of these lakes. I can’t get enough of them!
Soon I found myself completely surrounded by mountains. Of course everyday out here I’m surrounded by mountains, but in this moment I could do a full circle and see nothing but rock walls surrounding me. It was unreal. These are the moments I dreamed of before the trail.
I approached the pass and began to see the trail come into view. That’s a lot of switchbacks! I made my way up the windy pass slowly, until I caught a glimpse of a couple of hikers behind me. It quickly became a challenge to beat them to the top. Sometimes I feel like I need more of that to motivate my speed.
I sat at the top and enjoyed the view of what I’d just conquered. My spot was perfect, tucked away from the gusting wind. I could have stayed for hours, but it was time to make my way down. I was at 12k+ feet and the goal was to make it down to 8k feet so I can sleep in some “warmer” temps, we’ll see.
On my way down I passed Palisade Lakes and Creek, I’m obsessed. There are no words for this part of the trail. I was in awe as I walked next to the shoreline. The creek turned into a waterfall as the trail drifted away from the water. Sigh…
And then came the hellish downhill portion. The rocks were less than desirable, sharp and loose as I descended for miles. I began to notice a few bugs buzzing around, hoping they’re not the last of the mosquitoes lingering. I’ve seen enough of those damn things this year!
I smelled the aroma of some amazing food as I walked past a camp that was clearly a paid excursion with it’s amazing backcountry kitchen set up. I swear I saw a giant vat or two of food, the kind you need two hands to stir! Feeling a little jealous I walked off, only to find myself passing a train of mules on resupply. That’s ok, my cold soak will be great as usual!
I finally made it to camp where I found a nice spot right off the trail and a short walk to the creek.
I made it down to 8400 feet, I’m feeling warmer already! The days have been tough, but incredibly rewarding. I love this place!
Goodnight!
XOXO Green Light