August 7
I woke up and worked to get back in my routine, amazing what a few days off will do. I packed up, walked out of camp at 6:15 and was greeted by the beautiful mountains of the desolation wilderness as the sun began to fill the mountainsides.
This morning the Trail brought me up and over Dick's pass. At the top, I have a beautiful view back behind me to the valley I have come from, as well as a great view overlooking Dicks lake, which sits below a snow field at the top of the pass.
As I approached the pass I was able to obtain a cell signal and contacted Osprey. The good news is they are sending me out a replacement pack to Sierra city which I will reach in four days.
The overlook of Dicks lake turns out not to be the actual pass. I had another quarter mile with a slight bit more uphill until I finally reached it.
I’ve come across two grouse that let me get close enough for a picture. They typically fly away as soon as they hear you.
I am now passing by Fontanillis lake. It is stunningly beautiful. I reached the outlet that is flowing very well especially for August. I need to get across. Think I’m gonna use this rock and logs. Crossed super easy and dry.
Middle Velma lake is another beautiful Sierra lake the trail passes very close to.
I found a lot of pretty butterflies on this bush.
I have come across two new to me plants, the Sierra Tiger Lily And the Purple Mountain-Heath.
I stopped for my second breakfast at a stream with water cascading down the rocks, a really pretty place. Mosquitoes however are still out in force I had to put on my pant legs and wear my puffy jacket, even though it’s kind of warm.
I first observed the Corn Lily in the beginning of June but it had not flowered at that point. This is the first time I’ve seen it with a flower.
The trail continues to offer amazing views of the desolation wilderness mountains.
The Nettle-leaf Giant Hyssop has a multi layered purple flower rising above its broad green leaves. It seems to be a favorite of the bees.
Richardson lake is a dark blue color nestled behind the trees.
I have come to Miller Creek, another waterway that I will have to pick my way across on rocks
I stopped at the Bear Lake outlet stream for some water and a late lunch. As I was leaving I came upon this cool fractured piece of granite sitting by itself on the forest floor
This entire hillside is covered with mules ears as far as I can see.
Lake Tahoe sits off in the distance
I find both the roots of this tree, and the rocks behind it to be fascinating
I found a great campsite, just off the trail right past a creek.
Today’s PCT miles hiked 24.4
Total PCT Miles hiked to date 1887.1
PCT mile marker 1128.8
(Returned to complete 542.8 miles flipped over)
