I survived another cowboy night camping among the mice. Either none of them bothered me or I was too asleep to notice.
The trail angels at the campground prepared an amazing variety of coffee, breakfast burritos, pancakes, orange juice, and fruit. I watched the pastel color of the sunrise fade as I ate my burrito and sipped my coffee.
Today I realized that the desert section is coming to an end. Before coming here I felt this overwhelming feeling of nervousness, excitement, sadness and happiness all in one. Like I was leaving little pieces of my heart with my friends, my family, my dog and my home. I was so nervous about taking a step into the unknown.
And now I have that same feeling of leaving a little piece of my heart in the desert. I have felt very comfortable with the warmth, the terrain and my routine. I love the desert. This place is special.
I noticed that many of the cacti were heart shaped and they were all in bloom with these stunning bright, deep pink flowers. The afternoon heat slowed my steps as I climbed toward camp. It felt like a warm hug and a fond farewell from the desert itself.
I am camping hidden among a small pine forest to protect myself from the wind. I think the boys are camped in a tent. I made a side of Knor Spanish rice and had a walking tamale for dinner. I haven’t liked most of the rice accompaniments I’ve tried on this trip, but this one is pretty good. Tomorrow I will need fuel to try to get to Kennedy Meadows. My last day in the desert.
This website contains affiliate links, which means The Trek may receive a percentage of any products or services you purchase using links in articles or advertisements. The buyer pays the same price they would otherwise pay, and their purchase helps support The Trek’s ongoing goal of bringing you quality backpacking information and advice. Thank you for your support!
For more information, visit the About page of this site.
