Day 17: mile 236.9-266.1
Why it took me over 200 miles to brew some sun tea is beyond me. How delightful!
The trail began with a few blow downs, washouts, and some uphill, so by the time I was 10 miles in I didn’t think I’d make my 30 mile goal to Big Bear. It was a bit of a long shot anyway, so I was okay with it.
I was happy to see the snow was just a little patchy for a few miles, and nothing like what I’d gone through a few days ago.
Once I was through the snow the descent began and my speed picked up. With that came a huge wave of motivation. I calculated how many miles I had left and how long it would take me, and I decided I could be to the trailhead by 7:30-8:30 pm. That wasn’t much later than I’d planned on hiking today anyway. Another challenge for myself, and the idea of a shower, warm bed, and hot food kept me moving for the last 14 miles. I was a woman on a mission and my pace showed it. At one point I was jogging downhill, caught a rock, and went flying. My pants got the worst of it with a little tear. Maybe I’ll get bored enough to sew them up one of these nights. Or it’ll just be ventilation. 😂 I irrigated my skin flap and kept moving.
The sunset welcomed me to Big Bear. I turned the corner to a sky full of beautiful colors.
Just as I was almost to the parking lot of the trailhead I reached some Trail Magic! One last beer waiting just for me. The first of my rewards for making it 30 miles. I drank my beer while I waited for my Lyft, feeling proud of my accomplishment.
I stopped off at my adorable cabin, showered, and headed to dinner. It was delicious! I had every intention of stopping for a 6 pack on my way back, but my exhaustion kicked in and I headed back to go to sleep instead. What a day!
Goodnight!
XOXO Becks