Days 64-67: Sonora Pass to Echo Summit

General Trail Thoughts:

The Nero at Kennedy Meadows was fun, but upon returning to the trail I realized that later today, when I reached 10,500 feet, it would be the last time on the trail I would be this high. Of course, there will still be days of big climbs and big descents, but they won’t be like the passes in the middle of the Sierras.

Day 64: Departure from Sonora Pass

27 miles or so

From mile 1018 elevation 9593

Two mile marker 1045.3 student 8900

Camping: with 3 tents at Noble Lake

I drove the truck to the day area at Sonora Pass and said goodbye to Marnie. It would be about a month until we met again in Oregon. The climb was scenic and steep and at point 10,500 I saw Heffe. The last time we crossed paths was in Kings Canyon National Park.

The day was simply lovely, with some ups and downs, but no mosquitoes! Well, by 27 miles there were 3. Since it was Father’s Day, I was hoping to get to Noble Pass to make a call. Unfortunately, TMobile had no reception there. At the lake I chatted with Midday and his friend. It’s a long 27 miles, but it’s worth a try.

Day 65: Toiyabe National Forest

23 miles or so

From mile marker 1045.3 elev 8900

Two mile marker 1068 student 8545

Camping: alone

This morning when I left camp I saw 3 deer and enjoyed thinking about how nature happens whether we see it or not. The terrain has remained more volcanic in nature than the granite experienced further south. It looked like it was a backdrop from old western movies.

At the top of a hill I could see some buildings in the distance. I verified it and was able to make calls to Marnie and my parents’ cell phone.

Day 66: Carson Wilderness and Lake Tahoe

24 miles or so

From mile marker 1068 elev 8545

Two mile markers 1092 student 7238

Camping: alone

The hike through this area might have been the busiest I’ve experienced with day hikers on both sides of Carson Pass. I completely understand because the area was beautiful and the trails weren’t too steep. I got an early start and happily had time to swim in Shower Lake.

Day 67: Lake Tahoe Day Zero

Zero days as mentioned above are for eating, resting, eating, refueling and of course eating. I am lucky to have great friends and in South Lake Tahoe Alex and Nicole welcomed me. Those two are world travelers and have settled here for a while after living the nomadic lifestyle through remote work for a few years. Ah, to be young, smart and adventurous.

Carb Loading in South Lake Tahoe

I took a zero day and replenished. I was also able to buy a new pair of shoes since mine had torn the side where the fabric attached to the sole. Luckily, Tahoe Sports Ltd had my size.

Next up is Desolation Wilderness and the hike to Donner Ski Ranch, where PCT hikers get a free 40oz beer.

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