Tuesday, June 8, 2010

Relaxed, Revived, Refocused?

We have spent the last two, no, better part of three days in a place called Hiker Heaven (http://www.hikerheaven.com). It it located in Agua Dulce, CA which is approximately an hour out of Los Angeles. It was a 100+ degree hike into the town, the first town that the PCT officially runs through, and we had no issues migrating to Jeff and Donna Saufley's humble abode.

The Saufley's have set up their backyard with 7 large tents and 4 smaller tents that can accomodate up to 50 people. They have a hiker cabin equipped with showers, fridge, oven, television, internet, laundry, rides to the store, and a lot of company. Folks resupply, relax, and plan their next week or two into the Sierras, or whatever their plans may be. We've been able to finally met up with many other hikers who are all moving North as well.

Tonight, we will head out in the evening to attempt to hike 24 miles (or the better part of 24 miles) to the Andersons, another trail angel house that is located along the trail. We will be hiking again with Chris and Nick, two British folks, who are literally in love with America. I might even argue that they not only understand, but embrace, the American Dream of being Huckleberry Finn more than many other Americans do. Stories of trainriding, and experiences across the globe have swapped for the better part of the week.

Hiking at night has become a reality for the next week. At temperatures of 100 at 10am, it's unbearable to hike during the heat of the day. So, we have our headlamps, extra batteries, water and food and will be hiking towards Lake Hughes where we hope to arrive tomorrow evening, and then from there, head across the Mojave (16 miles) to Cottonwood Creek. From there we should be a solid day (or night) from the Tehachapi where we plan to resupply and watch the USA vs. England World Cup opener.

For those keeping score, Caleb has gained 5 pounds, I have still only gained 2 pounds. Yet, we are two of the only people gaining weight out here.

New Greatest Trail Moment Update: Brandon Catches a Fly in His Beard.

1 comment: