Current Tracking

Wednesday, August 22, 2012

Timberline

Day 130,  Mile 2107

This last section has definately had its ups and downs. Once out of Bend we hit the lava fields right away. They are pretty neat to see but not very friendly to the feet. Next came the old burn scars and sand which is also a bit of a challenge to walk in for miles on end. Then the Waterfall 2 Fire reroute! Ugg! Due to a fire next to Mt. Jefferson that closed parts of the trail, we got rerouted off 10 miles of the PCT to take a 20 mile detour. The hiking made me appreciate the PCT trail maintanence that much more. We ended up walking out one side trail which was like walking a river bed, to a gravel road, onto a paved road, and then back on another side trail that was just as bad as the first! Dang that  hurt a bit. But now I am finding out it could of been worse and that since we have passed that section there is now a 30-40 mile reroute. Ok I won't complain and just hope that there are no more fires close to the PCT north of us.

After the reroute the trail has been excellent! One of the best maintained sections and pretty flat at times. We even were able to get a 28.5 mile day in. I am now at the base of Mt. Hood and what a spectacular sight. Also had the luck of having my Dad and brother, Luka come up to Timberline for a visit and a picnic. Oh how I have been spoiled! Back on the trail this morning and then two more days to Washington! Crazy!

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

Wow, you are really making progress!
There are several folks here who want to cheer you on and say hello when you cross Steven's. If you have an idea of when that might be let me know and I'll keep checking the Blog.
No fires up here, just one on the north end of the Yakama Res, Diamond Butte. 6 miles east of the crest, but the PCT runs on the west side through there.
Best luck, keep on truckin!!

Anonymous said...

Last message was Michelle

Anonymous said...

Keep it up!! And ditto to what Michelle said.
Warm Regards, Kajsa

Janeen said...

Hello Chief Wenatchee! Josh tells me Amy tied in with you guys, how cool. I wanted to remind you that our place in Stehekin is still an option for you to enjoy along the way. Any idea when you might be passing through up there? We might be able to meet up with you when you arrive. Our place is 6 miles up from the landing, "Runaway Truck Ramp" sign at the driveway. Blue metal roof house. Your blog is wonderful to read, what an amazing journey. Take care, Janeen