PCT Day 94

Start: 1487.1

Stop: 1513.2

Today’s miles: 26.1

Total PCT miles: 1365.4

I woke up today determined to not let myself be as negative as I was yesterday. And while I was frustrated with my new perceived weakness over toting this stupid bear can, and my entire body ached from the extra weight, I managed to enjoy most of today.

We didn’t leave camp until close to 7, and I didn’t get to camp until just a minute or two after 8pm, but I didn’t have to hike in my headlamp, or set up my tent with it on (mostly because of the moon, but still), so overall I’m counting today as a victory. Just a very painful one.

The trail was so beautiful, big rocky, open vistas where you could see the trail winding around the mountaintops and between the valleys. There was so much up and down, and a lot of people too. The trail crossed through tunnels underneath interstate 80, which was a little crazy.

Just before going down to the tunnels, Margot and I ate lunch in the shade and then walked the short trail to the highway rest stop at Donner Pass. There was running water and flushing toilets, which I took full advantage of, and even washed my face after scrubbing my hands. The only downside: no vending machines. I think a soda would have perked me up big time today.

After crossing under the highway and over a road leading to the Donner Pass area (also no vending), we climbed and climbed. It was so gorgeous, but the wind was wild. A few times I’d somehow smack my feet into each other when I’d go to lift one up, almost like how it feels in fast moving water.

During that climb, no lie, 8 people passed me. I started to feel so defeated. Like how can one 3 pound bear canister slow me down so much? It’s ridiculous. Although, I do think part of it is its size and shape.. it’s causing me to completely pack my backpack differently and it throws off the weight distribution. At least that’s what I’m telling myself.

I watched the colors change in the sky with the moon popping out and little glimpses of Lake Tahoe showing up dark dark blue against the pink and purple surrounding it, as I made the final ascent to our planned camp spot. Margot had already cleared me a spot for my tent and was setting hers up when I arrived. There are plenty of other hikers nearby. And the wind is still a little nuts, but the sunrise view in the morning is supposed to be spectacular. I hope so, because I’m sleeping with my vestibules open for that reason.

I’m sure there’s more to say but I’m just too drained, so it’s time to bundle up and get some sleep. I really hope it’s restful sleep tonight. Sweet dreams.