Friday, May 30th, I got back on the trail at 5:15am at Cameron Rd. and Highway 58. Coordinates: N35deg 22.433, W117deg 50.790. I packed 4 days supplies since Shirley and I planned to meet at Hwy 178 on Mon., June 2nd. Total mileage between Hwy 58 and 178 is 86 miles. The terrain was so gentle and well marked, I found myself hiking faster miles than I planned. The first day, Friday, I hiked 35.6 miles, Saturday 20 miles (N 35deg 28.652, W118deg 08.721), then Sunday I realized I only had 30 or so miles to go, so I tried contacting Shirley to let her know that I would be arriving at Hwy. 178 on Sunday instead of Monday. I couldn't get cell service but another hiker had service. We met at Walker Pass (N35deg,39.042; W117 deg 40.334).
For the first time I saw a deer. It was a small desert variety and instead of running like the deer back east, this one hopped like a kangeroo. I've seen hundreds of lizards and little ground, mouse-like creatures called Pikas. This section was a transition - from the high desert to the cooler and greener, more vegetation, type terrain. The elevation at Tehachapi Pass (Highway 58) where I put in on Friday was 3,830 ft. Then, at Walker Pass (Highway 178) on Sunday I ended up at 5,246 ft. But, the descent was gradual and very pleasant - much easier walking.
Trail angels, Scout and Frodo, set up two tents right on the trail on Saturday and I ate supper big time. I had lots of spaghetti and bread, cold pepsis, and dessert. It was so good. Then on Sunday, Meadow Mary was camped at Walker Pass Trailhead Campground and served hot dogs, cold drinks and chips. Shirley brought McD's Quarter Pounder and I ate that too. My strength is back and I'm feeling good. We spent Sunday night in Ridgecrest. I'll repack my pack in the morning and head toward Kennedy Meadows.
By the way, I caught my first glimpse of the snow-peaks of the high Sierra mountains. Everyone is excited and looking forward to hiking upward and onward. Canada here I come!
Praise report: Thanks to all the trail angels for their constant support.
Keep hiking,
Greybeard
