706.6 to 721.35
Long/lat: 36.23065 -118.12348
UTM: 11S399045 4010103N
Elevation: 8998
We did some serious climbing but it was over a
good span so didn't seem so severe. The elevation is hitting us-complete with
the headaches, nausea, and loss of appetite and energy. We managed to get our
16 miles, but it was hard.
While taking a break, we were sitting on our ground
cloth and I leaned forward to deter a determined strange looking bug from
intruding on our space when all of the sudden this kangaroo mouse bounces out
from under us and hops about 5 feet into some brush. TBG and I looked at each
other unsure that we'd just witnessed the event. Apparently we'd been
sitting on the poor little thing. It was quite humorous, wish we could
have recorded it!
Our hopes of no more water problems was dashed as there is
still low water. Many of the water sources hikers depend on are dry and we
are forced to pack extra which adds to our pack weight and stress. TBG is
getting seriously slim and between that and the altitude, he's getting weaker
and slower. It's getting more concerning that we can't make our mileage which
affects our water and food. We are both famished and it's obvious we packed too
light on our supplies. We are seriously considering taking some significant
time off to fatten TBG.
The scenery has changed-trees, valleys,rocks. Even the smell
is different. We love it. There is the constant nerve rattling sounds of
the bugs, cicadas or something like that-a big black, ugly bug.
After some time you are able to tune it out, but it's crazy. Think of
listening to radio static...all day....
It took awhile, but we finally found a campsite and some
of the first hikers we've seen all day. Karma and Aquarius are here.
Karma is a fast (20-30 mile/day) hiker but is taking it slow through the
Sierras. He'll hike 20 miles for more supplies so he can go slower (10 mi/day).
I think he's living here more than actually hiking. We also met Pascal
too. He's taking his donkeys all the way to Chile, via the PCT to Cascade Locks
then the CDT south.
I'm still homesick and ready to call it done. I enjoy
it, but it's getting old, day in and day out and I'm really tired. I feel good
except for my feet which hurt constantly. TBG is suffering with the weight
and energy loss. He says I've lost enough as well, in fact, he says my butt has
fallen off.
It's definitely cooler up here, especially overnight,
but not quite pant/coat temps-pretty close though!
5 positives: 1. Bridges; 2. Bacon; 3. Group of kids hiking;
4. Pascal & his mules; 5. Smell of Lupine
We LOVE hiking,
KOKO & The Bald Guy
For the weight issue, do you have snickers or payday candy bars......they really add the calories and give you a great amount of protein. Too bad Pizza Hut or another pizza place don't deliver on the trail!!!!!
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