Day 2 - April 27 - Miles hiked 23.6 - Total 43.6

Another "slack packing" day. I had a GREAT breakfast prepared by the volunteers and ADZPCTKO planners. I got on the trail around 7:00 am on my way to Mt. Laguna, CA. Shirley has registered us at the Mt. Laguna Mountain Lodge (hiker friendly)for one night. I saw (and enjoyed) my first water cache today. There was lots of water and one Gatorade. I decided to enjoy the Gatorade and had the privilege of sharing it with another hiker who came up behind me.

What I found interesting today is how far you can see from the trail. At one point I looked out over a valley and could see a mile and a half in front of me. The elevation on Mt. Laguna peaks at 6,000 ft. It was a beautiful day for a hike.

I arrived at the Sunrise Valley Picnic area around 2:45pm and Shirley was waiting for me. She had fried chicken dinners prepared by the Blue Jay Lodge http://www.bluejaysandiego.com/ in Laguna Recreational area. Those folks in Laguna know how to treat hikers.

I'm in for the night,

Keep hiking,
Greybeard

DAY 1 - April 26 - Miles Hiked - 20.6

I have always wondered what desert hiking would be like. I am definitely going to find out first hand. Shirley (my wife and hike supporter) drove me and 2 fellow hikers to the Mexican border. We take pictures at the southern terminus monument - 2,655 miles to go.

This is going to be a 1 day hike from the border to Lake Morena Campground. What I am doing today is "slack packing." That means I will not spend the night and will carry a light load in my backpack - water and snacks. The desert is is full bloom - such beauty. The vistas are incredible. I look at a mountain and think "wow, that would be something to hike over." And I discover that I do just that. The view is over the Laguna Mountains. I hike through the Saddle of Morena Butte.

Shirley is posting my journal entries and will update the postings with photos as soon as possible.
Keep hiking,
Greybeard

The Journey Begins

Friday, April 25, 2008: We arrived at the All Day Zero Pacific Crest Trail Kickoff (ADZPCTKO), checked in and set up camp for three days. Approximately 300 hikers and planners showed up. The event was well organized and I really enjoyed the breakfasts they prepared for the PCT'ers. Another great advantage of attending the ADZPCTKO is the opportunity I had to meet and discuss the hike with seasoned hikers from last year and beyond. Sitting around discussing gear, clothing and food options was extremely helpful.

My plan is to get started early in the morning around 6:00 am from the border. Then I will "jump off" at the trailhead from the campground - heading north toward Mt. Laguna on Sunday.

Keep hiking,
Greybeard