Day 78: mile 1485-1501.2 (Dunsmuir/Mt Shasta)
My alarm went off at 5 and scared the daylights out of me! I turned it off, rolled over to pour water over my oatmeal, and I went in and out of sleep until 6. Feeling grumpy, having been woken up to an alarm, the day did not start out like I’d hoped. Oh how I haven’t missed alarms. 😂
The blister that looked like it was forming yesterday appeared to be gone, but I decided to hike in one sandal and a sock to make sure it’s gone for sure before I head out into the next section. There will be miles of snow, and sandals and snow just don’t mix. Also because it was clearly a solid fashion choice! 😜
My grumpiness and headache subsided as I woke up a bit more and was on my way. Even so, I’ve decided there won’t be any more alarms on this hike. I made my way past the river and back to the PCT to head up. I climbed and climbed, popping out every once in a while to an amazing view. There she was, Mt Shasta. I had finally made it just about as close as I’d get and it was glorious! I stood there in awe for some time.
I turned the corner and was back in the trees for my long descent to the freeway. When I finally made it to the bottom I was surprised to see where people usually hitch from. It looked to be a pretty unpopular exit/onramp to the I-5. The bus wasn’t running this time of year, and Lyft wasn’t picking up any drivers in the area. Just as I thought I’d be stuck there for a while, a gentleman in town on a fishing trip pulled over to pick me up, yes! He drove me to Dunsmuir where I grabbed my package and caught the bus to Shasta.
Middle of the trail break 
Yes, new shoes!
Once in Shasta I stopped to set up at Base Camp, a local store. I was the only hiker staying there so I had my own private bathroom. The perks of being ahead of the bubble I suppose. 😂
With food on my mind (of course), I went to check out the grocery store across the street. They had some super delicious options in the little cafe area. I was in heaven. I wanted to get everything, but I contained myself.
Being oh so responsible, I gathered my laundry, grabbed the couple of the beers I got at the grocery store (gotta make laundry fun somehow), and headed to the laundromat. I think this will be my favorite one on trail. They name each of the dryers. How can you not love that?!
Done with my chores for the day I was off to dinner. Apparently everything closes at 8 other than the Mexican food spot in town. It turned out to be pretty delicious, expensive, but delicious. Way too full I headed back and got into my tent. Despite being so full, I’m falling asleep already thinking about eating my leftovers in the morning. Mmmmm…guacamole. 😂
Goodnight!
XOXO Becks