Day 168: mile 826.3-843.3
I found a spot of sunshine to dry out my quilt so I wouldn’t have to stop midday and unpack everything. I always forget to do it anyway the few times I’ve left with wet gear.
Once I was on the trail I was immediately blown away by the view. I don’t have the words to describe the way the Sierra make me feel. I am constantly awestruck! Possibly why I ended up with mysterious dirt all over my face, not paying attention to anything else but the view.
As I walked through this insanely gorgeous meadow, I passed hikers still packing up and eating breakfast, what? I discovered that the JMT hikers get a later start than I do, my kind of people. I stopped and chatted with a few about the view. I needed to express my excitement to someone besides myself.
The closer I got to Muir Pass the more beautiful my surroundings became. I walked next to a creek for most of the day, so I blame the noise for almost walking into 2 large bucks grazing on the trail. I stood there for a bit taking it all in until they decided it was time to move.
I continued up the trail, following the creek until I got to lower Helen Lake. It was big and beautiful, I had to sit and enjoy for just a moment before I finished my final 2 miles to the top.
A few snow patches and a few switchbacks later I and I was at upper Helen Lake. It was even more beautiful. A couple of other hikers passed me going south who shared my same enthusiasm. After some verbal high-fives and assurances that what lies ahead is just as beautiful we wished each other well (and to stay warm!) and were off.
Almost to the top! I was excited to get to Muir Shelter to check it out. Plus another thru hiker said while he was there someone was making fresh guacamole! …I didn’t have high hopes to get that lucky, but you never know.
No guac, just views. I’ll take it! Between the wind and the overall temp, it was pretty chilly at the top, so I didn’t really spend much time inside the shelter. The rock walls and darkness made it much colder inside than sitting outside in the sunshine. I tucked myself into the rocks and enjoyed a snack as I looked out at what I’d be climbing down.
I began my descent, not certain of where I’d be stopping for the night. I passed by quite a few spots on my way down, but they were all really exposed and the wind seems to be a constant. The trail became shaded and with that, chilly. I wanted to be set up before it got dark and really cold. I found a beautiful spot just below the trail that seemed to be a bit less windy, so I got set up and jumped inside after enjoying the view for just a moment.
As the night went on the wind really picked up and this spot quickly rivaled the night outside Timberline Lodge, maybe even beating it. I was pressed up against my pole, keeping it from blowing over. Meanwhile dust and sand were blowing inside covering me and everything inside my tent. Guessing sleep will not be happening tonight. I think this will be one of my favorite days, but least favorite nights.
Goodnight!
XOXO Green Light