PCT Day 66: Into the Mokelumne Wilderness

Daily Miles: 30.2, Total Miles: 1067.0

I had pain and swelling on the bottom of my right foot yesterday. Upon further inspection this morning, it looked like a splinter. Got my needle and tweezers and pulled that baby out – not sure how or where I picked that one up.

A soggy and wet trail for most of the morning, still a few snowdrifts but will melt fast with warming temperatures.

I had heard rumors there may be trail magic at the Highway 4 crossing at Ebbett Pass, and sure enough, a retired banker, but not retired hiker, had set up a kitchen and excellent spread of food. I joined a few other hikers and had cereal, bananas, eggs with chili, orange juice and chocolate milk. So kind and generous – thanks again Chipmunk!

The trail soon entered Mokelumne Wilderness and the views changed to the colorful, eroding volcanic peaks and sagebrush meadows.

I hiked down to an area with numerous lakes and ponds and thusly more mosquitos. I quickly set up and escaped into my tent, joined in a few minutes by James and Claire.