PCT SOBO DAY 86 – Racing through the clouds

Day 86

Start: Highway 108/Sonora Pass/Pinecrest, mile 1637.7

End: West Fork Walker River, mile 1652.3

Miles driven: 14.6 miles

I woke up well rested as sunlight streamed in through the window I slept under. After countless nights of poor sleep in hotel rooms, it was nice to spend a restful night indoors.

The cookies rose shortly after. I completed some of my last city tasks while he made us coffee and breakfast. On the menu today was French toast topped with blueberries. Hmm! Cookies was a great host and even took me to the store so I could pick up some last minute items. He then took me to the best spot to hook up and gave me a sign I could use to get back on the trail. Thanks Cookies!

It wasn’t long before a young man who was going on a multi-day hike in the area gave me a ride. He was from San Diego and created custom van builds. After chatting about hiking, business ideas, and backpacking food, we finally headed back to the PCT. I waved goodbye and returned to the road.

The air was warm in the sun, but I could see a steady stream of clouds coming in in the distance. As I climbed, the mountains became larger and rockier. In the distance tempting lakes gleamed, but the path took me away from them. I enjoyed the sun while I could, but it wasn’t long before the clouds darkened and thunder rumbled ominously.

I didn’t have much of a mileage goal for today, but I wanted to get as far out of the valley ahead of me as possible. I figured the lower elevation and trees would protect me if the incoming storm got really fierce.

I quickly snacked on the last rays of sunlight and ran through the clouds for the rest of the afternoon. When the first drops began to fall on me, I decided it was time to set up camp. It was relatively early, but the clouds were heading in my direction, so the rain would probably get worse if it continued.

It was already cold when I set up my tent, gathered water, and settled into the warm cocoon of my quilt. I was more than happy to relax at night and study my map for entertainment. I just hoped the storm wasn’t as bad tonight.

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

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.