PCT Day 92: Russian Wilderness & Etna

Daily Miles: 15.1, Total Miles: 1606.5

One good thing about an early start is a gorgeous sunrise. Red sky in the morning, hiker’s warning?

After a short climb, I entered the Russian Wilderness. How did I get in this country?

Nice views of sheer granite walls heading down South Russian Creek Canyon. I turned up and hiked over another ridge, passing scenic Payne’s Lake along the way. Good views of Mt Shasta and on into Oregon from the high point.

I dropped down to Etna Summit and Somes Bar-Etna Road. Had a nice chat with a forest service fire person parked near the trailhead. She was very apologetic about not being able to give me a ride. No cars went by in the first 20 minutes. She said she would flag down the next vehicle and get me a ride. She got out and stopped the next car and explained a hiker was in need of a drink (Etna Brewing Company) and nourishment. Linda, the driver, said she would have stopped anyway, but what a nice gesture from both.

My good luck continued as I got a message from Etna Motel that there was a cancellation and a room with AC was available. The owner let me use their laundry saving me a lot of time and steps.

I had a late lunch at the Etna Brewing Company along with a good IPA. Saw Beer and Ranch, a nice German couple whom I hadn’t seen for a few weeks.

For dinner, I had a New York Strip and coconut cream pie at nearby Bob’s Ranch House. I’ll be back for their breakfast.