I woke up at lava lake camp, no lava at lava lake; however, immediately after hitting the trail we are in a large lava field and will probably be in one most of the next couple of days.
As we crossed the road on McKinsey Pass, a white van, pulled up and asked if we would like a muffin, trail magic at its best!
The Trail has left the lava field and is now going up a Forest Trail right alongside of it. Definitely easier walking than on the lava.
Once again, I find myself marveling over the geologic features. I’m on a fine dirt path with pine trees and light scrub, and feet away is an immense lava field completely bare of vegetation or dirt.
Out of the Forrest and back to the lava fields
Looking back, we can see North Sister and Middle Sister now well behind us.
Amazing nature! This lone tree sits in the middle of miles of bare lava field. North Sister, and Middle Sister rise strongly behind it.
These purple trumpet flowers are known as the Davidson’s Penstemon
After coming out of yet another lava field, we get to the base of Mount Washington, and proceed up and around the western face. It brings us into a fern forest and a burn scar.
Scarlet Gilia are these tall trumpet shaped red flower bearing plants.
Mount Washington, which seemed so far away just yesterday is now directly beside us as we pass along its Western face.
The trail is bringing us into a Tree tunnel area of forest.
We have arrived at Big Lake Youth Camp. it is a Christian based camp that is supportive of PCT Hikers, very supportive! They have a building set aside just for hikers to hang out in. It has showers, laundry, kitchen, and hiker boxes. They also accept resupply boxes. (thanks Josh for the food resupply another great job )They offer breakfast, lunch, and dinner for no cost. Everything is on a donation basis. While we are not allowed to sleep on site, there are camping areas just outside the camp boundaries for us to set up in.
During dinner the camp staff gave me a cupcake and sang happy birthday to me! (TC and Jelly told them) I finished my day as a guest at the camps campfire. I got to hear some worship and watch kids get a message about Jesus. Worship is one of the things I miss the most on Trail. It was a nice way to end the day. I am truly blessed.
I returned to the area I set up my tent as the sun was setting and settled in for the night.
Today’s PCT miles hiked 12.5
Total PCT Miles hiked to date 1454.8
PCT mile marker 1995.1
(Flipped over 542.8 miles)
