Life is like a camera…
Focus on what’s important,
Capture the good times,
Develop from the negatives,
And if things don’t work out,
Take another shot.
Below Kearsage Pass to Woods Creek
14 miles
Today was one of those very special days that simply takes your breath away. The Sierras.
Dan and I hiked up Kearsage Pass last night. It has been quite awhile since I have visited the High Sierras. It is a true wake up call to all things that are beautiful and so special.
Dan is my cheerleader, my caretaker, my problem-solver, best friend, husband (of course) and resupply man when I am out on the trail. It was pretty difficult parting this morning when I went one way and he went the other. He even joked that hiking back to the car was his first solo hike. Come to think of it, it most likely is.
All day today I felt so full of gratitude and love. I think we all need one of these days every once in a while. It is a reboot of sorts.
I met lots of fun folks today, PCTers, JMTers, and hikers out for a weekend. I even had a couple of people stop me and say, “Hey I know you. I follow your blog!” I had a great conversation with Mary and Ron. They are pictured below. PCTers Dang It and Ferd are also pictured
Today I went up over Glen Pass to Rae Lakes and down to Wood’s Creek. Gotta say I felt pretty good, but the altitude is making me dizzy and a bit nauseous. I did not train for the high Sierras and it is very clear. Scotland’s highest peaks are around 4,000. Not much preparation for 12,000 feet!
The goal today was to meet Grasshopper and continue hiking north on the PCT to continue her thru-hike. Sadly, she came into camp after hiking 15 miles and is in terrible pain in her back. I feel so sad for her. Her spirit wants to be on the trail so badly, but her body needs more time to heal.
I love days like you described. They don’t happen often, but when you have them, you know you are blessed. Beautiful area.
You are back out there! Cool. I just love the blog and the photos of the lake. And the blue-painted toe-nails shot was cool too! Keep on Rockin’!
Great to see you back on-trail! Looking forward to you stories and fantastic pictures as usual.
-GoalTech
Just missed you. I was going from Woods Creek (as part of the Rae Lakes loop) over Glen Pass. Was at the top of Glen Pass at 7:15am Tuesday, 7/1. Great weather (can you say HOT!). Enjoyed a swim in Dollar Lake. Love your blog, especially the gear list. Purchased a couple items from ZPacks – Solplex tent and 20 degree bag. Still getting used to setting up the tent; it takes some planning. Also, I should have taken the advice from Zpacks to upsize the sleeping bag. I’m a male 5’9″, 160 lbs, and 66 years old. I don’t have broad shoulders but I found the fit tight. Fortunately (?) it was so hot that I kept the bag unzipped and used it as a quilt.
I agree. I did not even get inside my bag in the last few days. So unusual. Yep it takes some getting used to setting up the tents with hiking poles, but so worth it. We did just miss each other. Lightening the load is so much kinder on the body and the enjoyment of the trip. Thank you for your thoughts!!!
Love the photos and the great attitude!