May 25, 2007

It's 3:30 p.m. and I'm sitting on a huge log at a Chevron gas station next to the post office in Onyx.  I am feasting on a turkey sandwich, Cheetos, Sierra Mist, Neapolitan ice cream sandwich, Gatorade, etc., etc.  I hitched here 15 miles west from the trailhead at Walker Pass.  I hiked 20 miles so far and will consider hiking more after my food settles and the sun goes down.

I began hiking today at 5:30 a.m. following Steel Eye up the 1,600 foot climb, watching the sun come up over the mountains as I was marching along very peaceful.  Today's hike was mostly shaded so the temperatures remained nice.  Steel Eye and I followed black bear prints today on the road to McIvers Spring.  Yikes!  My hike took me to an elevation of 6,940 feet before descending to 5,100 feet at Walker Pass.

I opted to hitchhike to the Onyx post office since Bruce had sent me a re-supply box.  The postmaster named Janet went way out of her way to drive me 15 miles back to the trailhead.  Janet lives in Kernville which was the other way.  Thank you Janet!  I found my hidden treasure that Running Feather had left for me at the historical marker.  Thank you Running Feather!  I hiked three miles up to an elevation over 6,000 feet and I'm camping alone tonight.  I dutifully hung my bear bag and gave myself a Purell bath.  My feet are pretty raunchy looking.  Oh well.  At least they are getting me forward without too much discomfort.  I hiked somewhere around 23 miles today.  The winds are strong and the moon is my nightlight.  Total miles to date: 655.00