Days 53-54

Big day: the day before KMS. We wanted to set ourselves up for a full day there without having to camp.

It was quite hot and exposed. I was tired but we should have left earlier. I’ve been quite tired lately. But excited to see everything that is coming.

We had some longer water carries and some relatively small climbs. There were some nice rivers toward the end of the day where we did some trail laundry and bird baths.

Camped at 699.4

Today’s the day! Kennedy Meadows South, largely considered to be the end of the desert section of the PCT.

We were on trial just after 5:30 to walk the four ish miles to the Kennedy Meadows General Store. Traditionally, hikers gather on the large patio to eat and rest, and as a hiker approaches on foot everyone cheers.

We were the first hikers of the day and got a great clap:) 5Spice and Whopper were leading the excitement for our arrival.

Pancake breakfast and then gear and resupply. I got packages with bear can, ice axe, micro spikes and some new warm layers. I shipped some stuff back to Seattle and got a new hiking shirt after my grey one got holes in it from some critters a few days ago.

Burgers at grumpies and some drama with the shuttle back and forth, luckily, Kidnapper was willing to give some rides.

Hiked out just a few miles from town to camp. Somehow KMS was more restful than ridge crest was.

Camped at 705.7Read more