Bushcamp to Bushcamp
34.6 miles
Mile 2434.7
We woke to the sunrise bouncing off the placid lake beneath us. We packed up and began what would be an epic morning of vistas.
Mt. Rainer watched us from afar as we ascended switchbacks cut into the mountain’s stone ridge.
Mirror lakes and snow pocketed summits accompanied us as we made our way through the incredible Alpine Lakes Wilderness.
Oddly enough, I ran into two wilderness rangers, the first rangers I’d seen since beginning my journey. They even asked to see my PCT permit, something I’d forgotten I even had. After chatting with them for a few minutes, I thanked them for their work and continued on my way.
After a brief descent through a burn area, I began a tedious climb up to the top of a windswept mountain, home to herds of marmots. The interesting critters pack one hell of a screech!
I continued down the backside of the mountain and made my way through a green tunnel as I approached our campground for the evening.
My progress was slowed by the overgrowth of huckleberry bushes lining the trail. I always make time to munch on berries.
During the final mile before camp skeeters began their assault. It was especially irritating because there hadn’t been any all day, but of course right where we wanted to camp there were droves. Bummer.
Reaching camp, I threw up my tent and hopped in to escape their onslaught. Soon after, Spikes showed up and did the same. Together we ate dinner hunkered down inside our tents, before passing out.
Cheers!