PCT Day 12: San Jacinto Mtns into Idyllwild

Daily Miles: 6.6, Total Miles: 178.6

A beautiful, windy hike this morning along a high ridge in the San Jacinto Mountains peaking at about 8,600 ft. Still some patches of snow hanging on.

Once at Saddle Trail junction, the official PCT mileage ends, but I still had to hike 4.5 miles into Idyllwild.

I was almost at the Devil’s Slide TH when stopped by two forest service rangers who asked for my PCT permit. Surprised because I’ve heard that most hikers go the entire PCT without having to show their permit. Hopefully it wasn’t because I looked suspicious.

Once in town, I picked up my re-supply box, checked in at Idyllwild Inn, got the stinky laundry done and took a wonderful shower. Had a beer with hikers at the cabin next door and later, some Mexican food. Pretty, friendly town.