Day 166: mile 793-808.6
Finally, I strategically placed myself in just the right spot to get morning sun! I could sit in my my tent and stay warm and dry the condensation on my quilt at the same time, amazing! It was the best morning on trail in the Sierra yet. I had warm sunshine and a lake to sit and enjoy my breakfast next to.
I made my way around Rae Lakes, down to Arrowhead Lake, and past Dollar Lake. I continued downhill thinking it would be a quick morning, but the rocky terrain had other plans for me.
As if I hadn’t been moving slow enough downhill, I started up Pinchot Pass. …I started and it felt like I may never finish. It seemed to go on forever. My pack was so heavy with food and my bear can was banging against my back and hip bones, so I’m certain it wasn’t Pinchot Pass, it was that combination. Damn this bear can.
Just after the awesome suspension bridge was an equally awesome rockslide! There were warnings to stay away, the rocks were slippery, but it looked like a blast to slide down. Being that it was likely very dangerous, and very cold, I resisted my urge to test it out.
As I made my way closer to the top the rocks began to change color. I was surrounded by beautiful reddish and light and dark grey rock.
I passed an enticing little lake that was calling my name with it’s flat spots and readily available water, but I pushed on (good for me!) as evening approached. I was determined to make it up and over the pass.
Green meadows, a few snow patches, and a rocky approach carried me to the top of the pass. Thrilled I made it, I looked back once more at what I had just climbed and then I turned and made my way to the other side.
Wow, just as I expected, more grandeur. High rock walls met by lakes for miles. Also met by terrible back lighting.
I made my way down to my campsite, happy to have just enough time to put my tent up as the sun was setting. All it takes is another lakeside site and all of todays struggles have been forgotten. Life is good.
Miles to sending my bear can home: 208.3
Goodnight!
XOXO Green Light