April 27, 2007

I slept little last night.  I camped alone at Arrastre Trail Camp at Deer Spring.  I tried to start a fire but was unsuccessful.  Dag.  Helicopters were searching the area for a lost woman with Alzheimer's.  When the helicopters were not above my campsite, it was eerily quiet...no animal sounds at all.  I was less than 10 miles from Big Bear City so I got up and hoofed it into town before 11:00 a.m.  I had hiked in snow, hail, rain, and extreme heat and could not wait for a good day's rest.

I stayed at Nature's Inn, a hiker hostel run by Debbie and Ed.  The accommodations were superb!  Debbie had fresh fruit baskets arranged, Promax bars, and a refrigerator loaded with tasty treats.  A pool table was enjoyed by all and a computer was available for use.  Ed grilled a sirloin tip for Shortcut, Patrick, and me.  I supplemented Ed's fine cooking with potato salad and pasta salad.  Debbie and Ed gave us a scrumptious banana cream pie for dessert.  I then waddled to my room, took a long Jacuzzi and slept peacefully until daybreak.  I would recommend this place to any hiker.  Nature's Inn rocks!