Day 55: mile 1209.3-1219.7
The boys were off early which left me at camp to have a slow start all to myself. The sun came out, and less than half a mile in I found great service and was able to call my family, which always puts me in a good mood.
I continued on and the wind started gusting. It was pretty chilly even with a little sunshine. The views were great, and such a tease. I could see a snowless trail in the distance, one I knew I wouldn’t be taking. Throughout the day I was constantly teased by snowless mountains. The PCT seems to always be on the “wrong” side of the mountain in this area.
The trail followed the side of the mountain for most of the day. This meant walking at an angle, which isn’t the easiest in snowshoes, especially when the snow is sloshy. Five snow miles felt like 25 in the dirt, my legs exhausted from lifting my snowshoes and the snow that clung to them with each step. I should’ve taken breaks and eaten more, but with my late start and phone break shortly after, I needed to keep moving. I should change my strategy out here, up and at it early so I can take breaks, but the cold weather is less than motivating, so we all know that isn’t happening.
I reached a few hundred yards of dirt and took my snowshoes off. With great joy, and some temporary relief for my feet I walked down the hill. Definitely worth every moment it took to take them off and put them back on. Best part of my day!
Thrilled the trail was downhill the last few miles I felt some motivation. Ahhhh how quickly that changed. The descent was crazy steep and I spent my time creeeeeping down slowly or sliding on my butt. Following was more angled hiking. Around here is when I started making up a song with only words of profanity. I laughed through it a bit, but was mostly just ready to be done for the day.
I finally reached camp. The boys were there with a campsite all stomped out for us. Ratatouille was even attempting a fire. A for effort, but unfortunately it didn’t work out, everything was just too wet.
Dipity came walking down the mountain, yay, the gang was all here! Even though the day was cold and frustrating it was nice to have everyone to meet up with and laugh about all the craziness. I’m definitely getting used to the company at the end of the day. 😊
Goodnight!
XOXO Becks
😊✌️