Day 81:
When I left camp at 8am, Blackout was still sleeping. I’m sure he’ll catch up.
I decided to do an experiment, and not take pictures today. I found it to be a more intimate experience. Instead of snapping a pic and moving on, I took the time to study the scenery I passed.
Blackout caught up with me at 5:30pm, while I was eating dinner. We hiked together, looking for a good water source to camp by.
Along the way, we saw a couple and their dog. When Blackout walked by, the dog didn’t seem to mind, but he went berserk when I approached – barking, growling, and blocking my path. Eventually, his humans got him under control and I was able to pass.
Blackout and I kept walking, and walking, and walking. We skipped some decent spots, but none of them had water. Eventually, it got really dark, and we gave up. We literally walked a few feet off trail and lied down (since the ground was uneven, we didn’t set up tents).
25 miles today!
—
Day 82:
Sunshine woke me up. THIS IS BEAUTIFUL.
Didn’t realize it last night since it was pitch black, but we slept in a meadow, and it was absolutely gorgeous surprise to wake up to.
Since we were almost out, I decided to explore the area to see if I could collect some water. I found a small snowmelt stream over a ledge, and scrambled down to fill a 3 liter water bladder. Although I was successful, I have to admit, it was pretty reckless, and I’m glad I came out unscathed.
Was able to pack up and hike out quickly since I barely took anything out of my pack last night. Lesson learned – keep my bag as packed as possible.
Got so much trail magic at Carson Pass from the volunteers at the visitor center – oranges, apples, craisins, chips, and soda.
I met another thru-hiker, Tan Man, who had a friend joining him for this section, and he brought a dog! It was so great seeing the dog explore the trail – he was having such a blast. I think it would be awesome to hike with a dog.
My feet started to hurt in an unusual way, so I decided to stop for dinner after just 4 more miles. It’s only 8 miles to town, so I’m going to call it.
14 miles today.
Good Morning:
Pretty:
—
Day 83:
Had a solid start this morning.
Met a lady in her 40’s along the way and we had a pretty deep talk about life, purpose, direction. I know that sounds like an unusual conversation to have with a person you just met, but the trail is a special place where people are open more often than not.
Met two Norwegian girls also looking to hitch to South Lake Tahoe. I decided to stick with them – for whatever reason, it’s easier to get a ride when you are with girls.
A young couple stopped for us and brought us into town. I dropped my stuff off at an inn, and picked up my resupply from the local outfitter.
Stopped by the grocery store and bought a ton of food to gorge on tonight.
Back to the inn for my weekly shower.
8 miles today.
Hiker Hair:
—
Video (Day 82):
maxontrack 