Day 34 finally out of the snow

I woke up to a beautiful view at Strawberry Junction campground where we camped last night. Most of the campground was covered with snow, but I was able to find a dry spot behind a log that shelter me from the wind.

We hiked out with views of the valley and clouds below us. 

We again traveled across snow in a boot track as in this morning video. 

Snows deep enough to just about cover a Trail signs. 

Awesome views, and we can look across the valley to the San Bernardino mountain range we will be entering in a couple days.

We took a break at this snow buried stream. There’s one small hole in the rock I was able to attach my water bladder to my hiking pole and stick it down in the hole to fill. 

After a lot of strenuous Hiking, and a little bit of double back route finding we made it to the top of fuller ridge, this is the portion of trail that has been closed and resulted in our decision to flip forward, which, in retrospect was a great decision.

After clearing, Fuller Ridge, we took a moment for some food and water, and to take in gods beautiful scenery. Charlie found himself the perfect perch. 

After another couple miles we stopped for another short break Ryan found a nice spot for a snack, and we had more beautiful views.

We then continue through the snow. One advantage of hiking and deeper snow is the ability to glissade which is sliding down the hill on your butt. Ryan did it and did a nice little roll when he hit the trail.

This is an example of why it is so tiring on the snow, while the trail runs directly beneath us, and we have dry trail on either side of the snow mound. We have to climb up about 8 feet and then back down to get back to the Trail. The pictures don’t show it well but hopefully you get the idea.

We finally reached dry trail. It took 9 hours to go 7 miles! Our typical speed is about 2.5 to 2.7 miles per hour.

We went another 3 miles and found an off trail stealth campsite with a small steam 250 feet down hill. We Ate dinner, set up camp, listened to a sermon podcast (Ryan and I have gotten in the habit of trying to listen a few times a week) and went to bed.

Another very tough but satisfying day.

Today’s miles 10.0 Total trail miles 394.0.  

(PCT mile mark 193.3 due to Flip completion of 200.7)