PCT Day 51: Bailout

Sunday, 26 August 2018

Breitenbush Lake Camp (613.2) – Salem, OR: 0 miles / 527 total miles walked

I hardly slept all night. Partly because it was freezing cold, although my quilt is deliciously cozy, and partly because my whole left leg hurt, from my hip down to my ankle. The moon was also very bright again.

By the time 5:30 rolled around I was awake and unless I snuggled way down in my quilt, I was shivering.

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PCT Day 49: Dirt roads

Friday, 24 August 2018

Timothy Lake (574.8) – Dirt Road (591.3): 16.5 miles / 505.1 total miles walked

How is it that one day you feel invincible and strong and badass and the next day you feel like poop, sluggish, slow and totally inadequate? I guess the trail has this way of bringing me back down a notch and showing me that I’m just a tiny creature, ambling about in this vast open space.

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PCT Day 48: And karma whispered….leave it behind, all that weighs you down

Thursday, 23 August 2018

Timberline Lodge (555.7) – Timothy Lake (574.8): 19.1 miles / 488.6 total miles walked

I felt oddly detached this morning, but also more at peace than I have in a long time. Because I realized something last night. I don’t need to chase people anymore. If someone wants to be a part of my life, I will welcome them with open arms, but I can’t be the only one reaching out anymore.

“Loneliness is the human condition. Don’t attach yourself to everyone who shows you the least bit of attention.” –White Oleander

But there’s a difference between being lonely and being alone….I’d been both for a long time. And somehow, slowly I feel like I might be enough. The trail is doing its magic.

We said goodbye to Mark and made our way back to the trail, meeting NoMan at the trailhead, who had just gotten in.

The trail led us downhill, first in deep sand, and then on beautiful forest paths. I was flying today, averaging 3 mph at times, a new best for me.

We took a break at a trailhead with a pit toilet, such luxury. And trash cans, too. I made a Mountain House dinner I found in the hiker box. Delicious and filling. And I was able to dispose of the packaging right there. 😁

Time went by quickly, I started a new audio book (Railway Man) and before I knew it I made it to the junction for Little Crater Lake.

I waited for Sink, who showed up about 15 minutes later and together we took the little detour to check out this 45ft deep lake that is fed by a 34°F underground spring. So beautiful, the pictures really don’t do it justice.

Only about a mile further we found our home for the night at the shore of Timothy Lake.

I made Pasta Stroganof for dinner and had some sour gummy worms for dessert. Tomorrow we’ll try to beat our mileage record.

Keeping you posted…