PCT SOBO DAY 99 – I can do it

Day 99

Start: Tentsite/Evolution Creek, mile 1807.3

Finish: Tentsite/Palisade Creek, mile 1830.1

Miles driven: 22.8 miles

It was cold last night! I think it was the coldest night so far. I woke up to foggy breath and ice condensation on my tent. I was definitely not a happy camper. Between freezing my fingers and letting them warm up under my armpits, I packed up all my things and got ready to leave. It was too cold to wait for everyone to get ready, so Three Bucks and I set off.

This morning, the road was more icy than dirt. The rain that fell yesterday froze overnight, leaving icy puddles with cool patterns. Once again, I put my waterproof socks on over my regular socks. The extra insulation helped me warm up a little faster today.

Three Bucks and I marveled at the frozen paradise around us, but things got serious at our first water crossing. Everything was slippery! Three Bucks didn’t fall, but I slipped and slid on an icy rock. Fortunately, he handed me his trekking pole and I was able to steady myself and cross. No wet feet here!

Today I had to tackle Muir Pass. One of the Sierra’s favorites, I was looking forward to it. Just before reaching Evolution Lake, I stopped to wait for the rest of the team to show up. I enjoyed my snack while the sun warmed me. However, the elevation was kicking my butt. When the others arrived, they said they felt the same way. We were at almost 11,000 feet and had 2,000 more to go.

But the views we found below made us forget our heavy breathing and the challenge that awaited us. It was wonderful! Evolution Lake stretched across the basin, seeming to blend into the mountains. The snow and ice on the trail had melted in the sun, making it an easy walk along the shore. The sky was clear and blue, not a cloud to be seen. It was a pretty perfect day for climbing Muir Pass.

Despite appearing to be in the final stretch, I had a good walk ahead of me. As I started heading up the trail, I could really feel the elevation. It was difficult to get enough oxygen to walk strongly. But I kept going.

Near Lake Wanda, the snow became quite heavy. There weren’t many people before us after the snow, so I had to trudge through it. The others had stayed behind, so it was just me, the snow, and the sun. The further I walked, the deeper the snow became. It must have been at least 4 inches close to the step. Now the sun was hot and burning my lips. Sunscreen was a must!

Finally, I reached the top and sat on the steps of Muir Hut. I did it!! I needed a break and a Snickers bar! I sat down and waited for the rest of the crew, but I couldn’t wait too long. They were going out over Bishop Pass while I planned to keep pushing. It was my last day with them, but when they didn’t arrive after 20 minutes, I decided to leave a note and move on. I was sad to say goodbye to them because it had been so much fun walking with them.

However, the miles called to me. I went down, slipping and sliding on the slushy snow. This side of the mountain looked more like a river, with melted snow filling every corner of the ground. The day had gotten really warm and I soon found myself in snowless terrain. I had a late lunch basking in the warm sun on a dry rock. It’s funny how things can change in a matter of hours.

The rest of the day was spent hiking through Le Conte Canyon. Tomorrow I had to tackle the Golden Staircase, a steep trail that leads to Mather Pass, so I wanted to get as close as possible. The hike was nice and I loved the contrast of the lower valley after being so high up. However, my hiker hunger was really picking up speed. No matter what I ate, I was hungry again within 30 minutes. Besides, I still had at least a day and a half to the city. I knew I could do it, but my resolve felt a little weak. The only thing I could do was cheer up and take it day by day.

When I arrived at my camp, it was already dark. I wanted to go another mile, but I was tired and thought I had gotten close enough. I was looking forward to getting into my tent tonight. I pitched my tent on pine fabric which meant it was extra soft, perfect for a good night’s sleep. Not long after dinner I closed my eyes and drifted off into dreamland.

Trail Monster – Rawer!

And that’s a day in the life of a PCT SOBO hiker!

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