March 18, 2023
I woke up feeling warm and comfortable. The overnight temperatures were dry and not very cold. My tent location was well sheltered from the light wind that we did have.
Today’s hike starts with a 4 mile 1790 foot decent to Hauser creek and then immediately has a 4 mile 1448 foot climb climb out of Hauser Creek to Lake Morena.
The section of trail typically has very little water. However, this year it is abundant. I often hear the sound of water running down the canyon. Occasionally water runs across the trail, and plants are starting to show flowers.
There are large, interesting shaped rock formations along the trail as well.
As I descend towards Hauser Creek I am occasionally shown views of what I will be climbing very shortly.
At the halfway mark, the trail follows a dirt road that has an interesting help station. There is a single button with a sign in English and Spanish advising to call for assistance directly across from that as a second sign all in Spanish stating the hazards of the desert.
Soon I find myself at Houser Creek, and immediately head back uphill.
Once I begin, the climb I am at about a 6.8% grade in full sun. Once again, the rock formations along with area and very interesting
The last mile is downhill and I was treated with overlooks of Lake Morena, tonight’s campground.
Just before the park entrance is the oak shore malt shop, which is said to have one of the better burgers on the trail, I will agree. It was a very good burger.
Lake Morena is a county park with multiple public campsites. One section is designated as the PCT area and that is where my tent is tonight.
Today’s stats mile 11.4 mile 20. Plus additional walk to the total miles 9
