6.22.16 (JMT) Wed. We wake with a strong determination to get on the trail asap. I've already spied a lone hiker heading for the summit. I test out the snow around me and find it's hard and crunchy. This is what we want. But the morning is bright and warmer than we expected at this … Continue reading John Muir Trail-Donahue Pass to Lyell Canyon
6.21.16 (Tues) JMT We wake at 6:30 am to a bright clear sky. We take 3 hours to break camp. Very hard to leave such a beautiful site. We hike out and back up the same trail we descended last night. Up, up, up. I'm short of breath. I stop every 50-100 paces and breathe. … Continue reading John Muir Trail – Thousand Island to Southern Base of Donahue Pass
6.20.16 (Mon) JMT We take a long time to pack up camp and head out at 10am, reluctantly leaving our gorgeous views of Banner and Ritter and Shadow Lake. I think we were more leisurely since we proved to ourselves the first day that we could do lots of hard mileage, and we had plenty … Continue reading John Muir Trail – Shadow Lake to Thousand Island Lake
6.19.16 (Sun) JMT Cold this morning. Slept pretty good, up with the morning sun. Weather clear. Breakfast today and for the next several days consists of Muesli, premixed with protein powder, and a cup of instant black coffee. We mix each with water before consuming. I also add some raisins and nuts to the cereal … Continue reading John Muir Trail – Devil’s Postpile to Shadow Lake
6.18.16 (Sat) JMT Chris and I leave early this morning from Darwin for the 100 + miles to Mammoth Lakes where we park Ruby, our 2000 Mazda truck. Finding a parking place in this adventure town is no easy task, as the place is teaming with bikers, hikers, skiers, snow boarders, kayakers, and all kinds … Continue reading John Muir Trail-Red’s Meadow Campground
I lay on my back with my head resting on the tailgate of Ruby, our 2000 Mazda truck and I'm mesmerized by the darkening sky. I count the stars as they pop out one by one until there are too many and I am too sleepy. I sleep fitfully in the back of our truck … Continue reading Star Counting in Palo Duro
I go to the river's edge to meditate....ahhh, anticipation. I sit. I take a few cleansing breaths. I listen. I hear some idiot playing his base. How dare he disturb the tranquility of this place, of my space. Can't ever get away from inconsiderate fools. My annoyance is palpable. I automatically turn to face the … Continue reading Smoky Mountain River Music
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