May 9, 2007

My food was still hung, but the tree's branch was sagging from the weight of mine and Ed's food bags.  I took a short walk to find the water tank which was empty save for a couple of inches of water.  I would have had to climb into the tank to get water.  I then decided to hike backward to refill my water bottles.  This was my only water source for the next 12 miles.  As Bison Ed and I were hiking this afternoon in the blazing heat, I watched Ed jump and scurry when a mean rattlesnake came very close to using its venom on Ed.  Dag.  I threw some rocks towards the snake so I could locate it.  The rattler was buzzing, but I could not see it.  After awhile I dashed up the trail screaming.  My adrenaline was going now!

Ed and I hiked together today.  Ed had brushed off at least six ticks.  I found no ticks, but I am covered in a rash which itches like crazy.  I'm thinking my rash is an allergic reaction to something I'm brushing up against.  Or...it could be a dirt rash if there's such a thing.  I led again and was able to get into the zone.  However...it wasn't long until I spotted a rattlesnake basking in the sun on the PCT.  I kicked sand toward the snake hoping to get it to move.  Ed nudged it with one of my trekking poles and bingo.  The snake slithered off of the trail.

I am camping tonight at the Mill Creek Valley Ranger's Station.  I cut my mileage short today (12.0 miles) so I could re-hydrate for tomorrow's hot and waterless section. I plan to guzzle many liters of water tonight.  I am also going to take Benadryl to relieve my itch.