PCT Photo Album #10 - Stehekin to Manning Park and Vancouver

Check out Peel's new photo album (See Link to Photos).  It has pictures from Stehekin to Manning Park and Vancouver.  Enjoy!

Day 159 - 10/01/12 - CANADA BABY!!!!

Contents:  Crowed Camp - Castle Creek (19.3 miles)

WE DID IT!!!!! Greetings from Canada!!!!! Our dreams have come true.  I am so happy.  I feel like I just won the world series.  It has been an amazing journey.  Hiking the PCT was the best decision I've ever made.

I will write again when I'm back in Seattle but there is much celebrating to be done now.  However, HUGE thanks go to my parents and brother, Smiles, Mellow Yellow, Beef Nugs, Amigo, Shameless, Flappy, Action Pack, Sunday, Nips, Wildflower, Tourist, Snausage, Histo, and Extra Credit.  I couldn't have done this without you.

Off to Vancouver tomorrow.  It's time to party!  Thanks to my readers for all of your support.  Peels is signing off for now!  KOOOOOEY!!!

Day 158 - 9/30/12 - Canada Eve!

Contents:  Methow River - Crowded Camp (26.3 miles)

Awesome day today.  We knocked out our last big climb this morning.  After the climb, Mellow, Amigo, Smiles, and I accidentally overshot the last reliable water at the beginning of a possible 21.9 mile dry stretch.  We were considering back-trekking when some super nice day hikers walked up.  They had hiked well into the dry stretch yesterday and told us that many of the seasonable sources were still good.  Yay!  On top of that, they had extra water in their car parked just a couple miles away which they offered to give us.  So great, and they also shared their leftover food!  We have seen a lot of weekenders the last couple days, and they have all been supportive and offered us congratulations.  They really do make us feel like champions out here.  

We stopped for lunch at Harts Pass and then charged into the gorgeous Pasayten Wilderness.  It was truly spectacular and we were all on this amazing high leaving lunch.  The blue sky, open terrain, and colorful larches are the perfect way to end our journeys.

Our usual group of seven wound up crashing an extremely crowded camp late this evening.  Everyone was already in bed but we found a corner for cooking and will look for places to sleep soon.  Not sure who all is here as it was already dark when we rolled in.  Sunday is about 2 miles behind us.

We're about 19 miles from the border and are planning to camp just north of it tomorrow night.  The following morning, we'll get up early and walk the 9-ish miles to the Manning Park Lodge and the nearest road.  We're hoping to catch an 11:00 AM bus to Vancouver.

Off to bed in our last American campsite.  We're actually gonna do this!  It's Canada or bust tomorrow!

Day 157 - 9/29/12 - Running Outta Miles

Contents:  Hide Away Camp - Methow River (21.6 miles)

Well, we got woken up by sprinkles around 2:45 last night and had to pitch our shelters.  No complaints though!  I could be mistaken, but I think this was just the 5th time I've had to sleep in my tent due to rain.  We have been unbelievably fortunate regarding weather this summer.  There is no doubt this was the year to hike the PCT!

The walking today was good.  Lots of day hikers.  We crossed Highway 20 at Rainy Pass about 6 miles from camp this morning.  From there, we headed another 5-ish miles up to Cutthroat Pass where we ate lunch and celebrated the end of 25 miles of gradual climbing out of Stehekin.  The scenery was beautiful.....I was a bit disoriented though and wished for a USGS map so I could figure out what I was looking at.  The Halfmile maps have been truly fantastic and I would use them again in a heartbeat, but sometimes I do wish they included a little more of the surrounding areas.

From Cutthroat Pass, we did a long contour and then dropped steeply to Granite Pass.  The larches were changing colors and were spectacular.  After Granite Pass, we did more contouring followed by a gradual climb up to Methow Pass.  From Methow Pass, it was a long descent to camp.  I'm currently sitting by the fire with Amigo, Smiles, Shameless (birthday boy!), Sunday, and Flappy.  Mellow and Action Pack should be here anytime.  

More walking tomorrow and the border on Monday.  I can't believe it!

Day 156 - 9/28/12 - Coasting Uphill

Contents:  Stehekin - Hide Away Camp (13.6 miles)

The final push is on.  We rolled out of Stehekin today and are camped less than 70 miles from the border.  We had a great morning in town.  Amigo, Sunday, and I yogied a ride to the bakery around 8:30 and the rest of our crew trickled in throughout the morning.  We all caught a bus back to trail around 11:30....I think there were a total of 19 thru-hikers on board.

These are epic times, and I wish I could capture the mood.  When the bus dropped us off at the trail, we hung out for a long time.  I don't think anyone wanted to leave and start chipping away at these last miles.  Once I finally started walking, things felt better but still different from normal.  It's hard not to think about the fact that in a week, I won't be stumbling north, pack on my back, lost in conversation with Mellow.  I know that I will remain friends with these people for the rest of my life, but I also know that our time together as a group in this capacity is running out.  It'll never be the same, but we'll always have the PCT.

Camp is lovely.  We're right by Bridge Creek.  Mellow just built a fire to prove to Amigo that Americans actually do know how to light fires.  Go Mellow!  Mellow, Amigo, Sunday, Smiles and I are the only folks here at the moment, but I expect others to cruise in shortly.  

Rainy Pass at Highway 20 tomorrow.  Have a great night.

Day 155 - Stehekin - Last Stop Before Canada!

Contents:  Cedar Camp - Stehekin (Approx. 9.5 miles)

Great day today.  Flappy, Amigo, and I woke up super early in order to ensure that we'd make the 9 AM bus to Stehekin.  For the past several days (and until the end of the trip), Flappy has been waking us up to the song A Living Thing by Electric Light Orchestra.  It's a great song but one you don't hear too often......maybe every 5 years or so.  Flappy's goal is to train us like Pavlov's dogs so that we relive these last mornings together whenever we hear this song forever more.  It's definitely working, and I wake up with a smile every morning.

Anyways, I was the first of our trio to leave camp around 5 after a quick breakfast of two tortillas, each with half a string cheese and half a fruit bar inside.  I didn't want to take the time for oatmeal which I usually eat warm (though most people eat it cold out here).  Huckleberry and Chow-Down had also joined us in camp, and I hiked most of the 9.5 miles to the bus with Huck.  The walking was easy and we made good time, arriving around 8.  Surprisingly, we passed Smiles, Shameless, and Mellow sleeping next to the trail about 5 miles from the road.  We woke them up and managed to convince Smiles and Shameless to motivate for the 9:00 bus.

The bus stop was awesome.  Tons of hikers came out of nowhere.  It's funny-I started from the Mexico border with many, many people.  As we headed north, we got spread out.  In spite of this, almost all of us planned to finish by the end of September/first of October.  This end date is bringing us all back together, and I'm running into people I haven't met or haven't seen in lots of miles.  I love it!

The bus ride was good.  It was about 8 miles to the eagerly anticipated Stehekin Bakery.  The bus was mostly full of thru-hikers but there were a few other folks who got on when we stopped at a hotel.  Many were from Alabama and they were all super nice.  One of the guys had done his undergrad at Auburn and then gone to law school at University of Alabama, just like my dad.  At first, I thought they might know each other, but the man on the bus turned out to be quite a bit younger.  They were fun to talk to though!

The bakery was awesome....it definitely met expectations.  Most people hopped right back on the bus, but Flappy, Amigo, Smiles, Shameless, and I hung out for the entire morning.  The hikers definitely cleaned 'em out....I actually showed some of the most restraint of the group, and came away with just one cinnamon roll, two apples, a salad, and a hot chocolate.  It hit the spot though the cinnamon roll didn't come close to measuring up to my Mom's.  Add a little Calvin and Hobbes reading and some chess and it was a pretty great morning.

I accidentally missed the bus.  Shameless, Flappy, Amigo, and Smiles took from the bakery to the main town area but was able to catch a different one a few minutes later.  Mellow was on that bus too, so we were all accounted for with the exception of Action Pack and Sunday.

The afternoon was spent picking up my boxes at the PO, showering, doing laundry, making a few phone calls, etc.  I'm currently sitting outside next to Lake Chelan with a bunch of people.  It is beautiful here but still really smokey.....I would love to come back here someday.

We have a dinner reservation for 12-ish at 5:30 at the only restaurant in the area and there is free camping for tonight.  We are pretty much the only folks in town this late in the season....it is pretty nice.  Back to the trail tomorrow......the final push is on!

Picture Album - PCT Album #9 - Snoqualmie Pass to Stehekin

**Check out Kristy's (Peel's) new photo album.  (See Link to Photos).  It has pictures from Snoqualmie Pass to Stehekin. 

Joy to the World - PEELS COMPLETES THE PCT! - 10/02/12

We just received a text message from Peels that she was on a bus headed to Vancouver to celebrate with her trail family the completion of the PCT!  What an accomplishment for Peels and her friends!!!!  We are so proud of her and wish her the best as she begins her post-PCT transition to a new life in Seattle.  We are sure the memories of the trail will be with her forever as well as the friendships she has made.  She will no doubt be a different young woman than the one who left Seattle on April 24th. It will be interesting to see what changes Peels makes over the next year.   We have all been touched by Peels' blog entries and will miss them, but be glad that she is back in Seattle and only a phone call or email away!

Please join us in congratulating Peels on her amazing journey and adventure.  She is one tough girl!

Sarah and Rodney Kleedehn

Day 154 - 9/26/12 - Less Than 100 Miles to Go and Smellin' Stehekin Cinnamon Rolls!

Contents:  First Flat Spot Camp - Cedar Camp (Approx. 27 miles)

Today, we schooled the PCT!  It was a great day, and we finally made some decent miles.  We also managed to shave off 4.8 miles of PCT by following the route that was used between 2003 and 2011 when the Suiattle River Bridge was out.  A new bridge was finished late last summer but the route to the bridge adds 4.8 miles along the river.  I'm guessing it was built farther down stream in order to reduce the chances of further wash outs.  Anyways, we did a simple log crossing and had no trouble finding our way back to the PCT on the other side.  Great success!

This morning, Flappy and I started talking about running the Jerusalem Marathon in March 2013.  We want to plan a trip to visit Amigo.  The three of us have formed a really tight group over the last few weeks.  It is going to be sooo hard to say goodbye to these guys, especially Amgio.

The three of us are currently camped about 10 miles from the Stehekin bus stop.  Our plan is to get out of camp by 5:30 in order to catch the 9:00 bus that stops at the Stehekin Bakery before continuing on to the rest of town.  Stehekin will be our final stop.  We are less than 100 miles from the border tonight.

I'm going to keep the journal going through the end of the trip, but my entries might be short over the next few days.  I want to spend every last moment I can with my trail family.  The end of the journey is going to be bittersweet to the truest meaning of the word.  I can't believe what we have accomplished out here.  It has been amazing, and I have loved nearly every moment of this long, strange adventure.  The PCT is the only home I know right now, and I am 100% comfortable on it any time day or night.  Seattle seems foreign.  Anyways, I know memories of the next few days will be crystal clear, and I will write a more detailed entry when I get to Seattle if I don't take the time to document everything now.  

If all goes as expected, I should arriving in Manning Park on the 1st or 2nd.  I'm planning to head to Vancouver for one last harrah with my trail family before making my way back to Seattle.  At this point, I think I'll be home on the 4th.

Off to bed....still fighting this darn cold!  Please keep us in your thoughts and prayers over the next few days.

Day 153 - 9/25/12 - Still Gettin' Schooled By the P-Mother Fuckin' CT

Contents:  Red Pass - First Flat Spot Camp (Approx. 23.7 miles)

Well, it was another gorgeous day, but we definitely got schooled.  Amigo and I woke up in a cloud but were glad to see it wasn't raining.  We did TONS of up and down.  The title pretty much says it all.  Flappy came up with this one, btw.  Journal entry titles are sometimes a group effort.  I had a minor crisis at lunch and ate two extra tortillas with cheese and a extra bar and then tried to distract Amigo in order to steal his cookies.  Felt better afterwards though.  I'm definitely fighting a cold but unfortunately, it hasn't had any effect on my appetite.

Amigo and I caught Flappy at Milk Creek around 6:00.  We'd all been planning to do another 6.3 crazy steep miles up to a campsite near water but reconsidered when our Data Guide indicated a dry campsite in just 2.5 miles.  Needless to say, we didn't find this campsite and wound up taking the first spot we came across at the top of the climb about 4 miles from the creek.  We were all ready to be done.  It was our second day in a row of stopping short of the morning goal.

Other parts of the day worth remembering....we got our first views of the North Cascades and walked past BEAUTIFUL  Mica Lake.  I also realized I don't think I got a single picture of Glacier Peak.  What's wrong with me?!?!

Hoping for easier miles tomorrow.....Have a great night!

Day 152 - 9/24/12 - A Day To Remember

Contents:  Grizzly Peak - Red Pass (25.0 miles)

I had an amazing day of hiking with Amigo.  I am really tired though, so I'm going to keep this short.  We spent most of the day ridge walking and contouring above tree line in the Glacier Peak Wilderness. The views were fantastic.  Gorgeous fall colors too.  We wound up getting a little off route when we missed a turn and got on a different trail by accident.  I'm definitely blaming this on Amigo, as he was distracting me with plans for the border.  Due to this detour which probably cost us about an hour, we haven't seen Flappy since lunch.  Judging by the footprints, it looks like he followed our tracks down the wrong trail but realized his mistake and got back on the PCT long before we did.  Action Pack, Sunday, and Log are currently dry camped about 2 miles behind us.  They caught us as we were getting back on the PCT following our side trip.  Amigo and I probably would have joined them but neither of us had enough water to get through the night.  Alas, we did the final couple miles in the fog and dark but it was still beautiful and we climbed above the clouds just before Red Pass.  It's pretty magical with the moonlight reflecting on the fog below.

We hit mile 2,500 today and are less than 150 miles from the border. 

Day 151 - 9/23/12 - Born To Be Wild

Contents:  Stevens Pass - Grizzly Peak (14.0 miles)

Today was AWESOME!  We got the best hitch EVER from Skykomish up to Stevens Pass.  Two words sum it up:  Dodge Challenger!  Oh - and maybe 470 horsepower!  It was absolutely insane and so much fun.  Definitely my fastest trip ever between Skykomish and the pass.  Anyways, Ed pick up Amigo, Sunday, and me in front of the Sky Deli where we were hitching after hitting the breakfast buffet at the Cascadia Hotel in Skykomish (two really nice guys from Seattle, one of whom is a Triple Crowner, had given us a hitch from Baring to Skykomish).  Anyways, Ed insisted that I ride shotgun, so the boys piled in the back with the dog.  All we could do was hang on for dear life and sing along to the Beach Boys as we flew up to the pass.  When we got to the trail head, Ed got out of the car and spent some time with us chatting about our trip, his life, etc.  Really nice guy!  And now for the best part.....he invited me to take the car for a spin.  Sometimes it definitely pays to be a cute girl who can drive stick!  Anyways, Ed left Alice the dog with the boys who later said they'd wondered if they had just traded me for a dog and if they'd ever see me again!  Needless to say, I had a blast.  That car was unreal.  I hit 100 in third gear and felt like I was barely moving.  I got it up to about 120 before I got out of my comfort zone, but Ed was encouraging me to push it ever harder, and I'm sure the car could have handled it.  Add a little Beach Boys and Born to Be Wild, and I was in heaven.   I called my dad to tell him about it as soon as I got done.  He has a beautiful convertible roadster, and one of my favorite things to do at home is take it for a spin with him.  We always listen to oldies, and he always lets me drive.  It's a time I really look forward to.  Nevertheless, I've got to say neither his car nor my uncle's Corvette which I've also driven had anything on the Challenger!

We had a lazy day of hiking.  By the time we had coffee at the trail head with Ed and Amigo got a burger at the ski area, it must have been about 2 when we started walking.  Lots of familiar terrain today....we went past Lake Valhalla, around Lichtenberg, and Union Peaks, and then past Lake Janus and Jove Peak.  Lots of good ski memories from those places!

I'm camped on Grizzly Peak which is 14 miles from the pass with Amigo, Flappy, Action Pack, Sunday, Log, Virgo, and Huckleberry and Chow Down, two hikers I just met.  It's a cozy spot, but we're making it work.  I have a sore throat and really hope I'm not getting sick.  Great day though!

Hasta manana!

Day 150 - 9/22/12 - The Dinsmores' Vortex

Contents:  0.0 miles

Well, so much for back at it today!  I got sucked into the Dinsmores' vortex for another night.  Great day though.  Larry drove us to the amazing Sultan Bakery this morning per a request from Peels.  This place is wonderful and a regular stop for me on Stevens Pass trips.  Huge portions.  Everybody loved it.

After breakfast, we resupplied at the grocery store in Gold Bar and then stopped by a gas station for HEET.  Once chores were done, it was back to the Dinsmores for an afternoon of movies and reading.  It was so relaxing.  Mellow, Smiles, and Shameless headed back to the trail, but Amigo and I decided to stick around.  Action Pack, Flappy, and Sunday eventually rolled in as did Mismatch, Spatula, and Pit Stop who I hadn't seen since Tuolumne.  It was definitely great to see those guys again!

I made a trip to the general store for a shake and took another shower but have otherwise been lounging around this evening.  No more GLS (Guilty Lounge Syndrome) for me.....I know we are going to make it to Canada.  I'm just trying to soak up every last trail memory I can.

Definitely back to the trail tomorrow.....Have a great night!

Day 149 - 9/21/12 - Stevens Pass/The Dinsmores

Contents:  Alpine Streams Camp-Stevens Pass

Today was another excellent day.  Shameless and I woke to a smokey but warm morning, and we made great time to Highway 2.  The PCT switch backed right up to the back side of the Stevens Pass Ski Area and then cut from Skier's left all the way across the front.  It was pretty fun hitching right next to the Heather Ridge parking area, though passing motorists weren't showing us much love.  All the dirt bag Leavenworth climbers were definitely heading east!  Anyways, we finally got a lift from a trail angel named Larry who lives in Skykomish and was dropping some hikers off. Larry was cool, and he drove us to Skykomish for the PO, cafe, and shakes at the Sky Deli before dropping us off at the Dinsmore's River Haven in Baring, a little farther west along Highway 2.

The Dinsmores' place is awesome.  They have a big lounge area just for hikers.  Mellow and Smiles were already here when we arrived, and Amigo showed up while I was in the shower.  The rest of the gang will probably come in early tomorrow.  We all spent the afternoon hanging out at the Baring Store which is about a 2 minute walk from the house (I'm discovering so many awesome new places for post-Stevens Pass ski tours!) and watching movies (Top Gun and What About Bob?).  It's great to be here though it's hard to think about the fact that these are probably our last trail angels.  We're all high on the PCT right now and don't want it to ever end. 

Back at it tomorrow.....Have a great night!

10/01/12 - CANADA!

We just received a SPOT location from Peels. She has crossed into Canada!  Her PCT journey is almost over.  We don't know if she will finish the trail later today or early tomorrow but the end is near!  Stay tuned.

 sk

SPECIAL WASHINGTON UPDATE - 9/27/12

I spoke with Peels this afternoon.  She has arrived in Stehekin, Washington, her FINAL resupply on the trail.  She will be finishing the PCT trail (in Canada) on  Monday, October 1st or Tuesday, October 2nd!  She is savoring these last days with her trail family.  Peels will arrive in Seattle and begin her post-PCT life on Thursday, October 4th!  It is amazing to think she has almost completed this epic journey.  Stay tuned for news updates as she finishes the trail. 

Sarah Kleedehn  

Day 148 - 9/20/12 - Back With Shameless

Contents:  Spade Lake Trail Junction - Alpine Stream Camp (approx. 24.2 miles)

Well, I guess you can't say you've truly cowboy camped until a mouse runs across your head in the middle of the night! I survived the night but didn't get much sleep.  I wound up moving my sleep system to the other side of the small campsite, but this was more for a false sense of peace of mind than anything else.  I knew that mouse could find me and my food if he wanted to!

I wound up hitting the trail at first light.  I suspected that Team Slacker was camped at Deep Lake, about 4.5 miles ahead and I knew I might catch them in camp if I made good time.  No Team Slacker when I arrived, but I did run into Oregon who was just heading out.  He said the Mellow had just left camp with some folks I haven't met and the rest of the group was behind.  Apparently, the hot springs had been at capacity and they hadn't been able to get in the first night out of Snoqualmie Pass, but everyone except Mellow had hung out and gone the following morning.

It was nice to know almost everyone was behind me, and I took my time hoping they would catch up.  It felt good to take it easy especially after my restless night.  Lots more up and down today too.  After the east end of Waptus Lake, the trail veered north and headed up to Deep Lake.  From Deep Lake it switch backed up to Cathedral Pass.  I left a note for my friend Sunday at the Peggy's Pond Trail junction.  He's behind me (I think) and had asked me about possibilities for a good on trail zero.  I suggested Mt. Daniel which can be approached from Peggy's Pond.  He doesn't have a lot of route beta, but I told him what I could remember and showed him the Summit Post page.  I'll definitely be excited to hear how it goes if he gives it a shot.  After Cathedral Pass, the trail dropped pretty significantly and eventually crossed a substantial creek that drains Mt. Daniel's NE slopes.  I ate lunch there and hung out for quite a while to see if anyone would show up.  It was a cool spot and Shameless eventually rolled in.  It was good to see him.  He had seen Smiles, but it sounded like everyone else was pretty far back.

After Shameless ate, the two of us took off and had a great afternoon together.  The scenery was beautiful.  Lots of view of Mt. Daniel, though I didn't get any pictures.  This has been a tough section for taking pictures due to all the smoke.  The highlights of our afternoon were probably a 1,000-ish foot climb with super steep switch backs that we just cranked as the sun was setting and then dropping off the other side by Trap Lake in the dusky late evening light.  It was almost mystical with all the smoke.  

Shameless and I are currently camped in a meadow with some small streams about 12 miles south of Stevens Pass.  We have a good view of fires burning in the distance.  Once we hit the highway tomorrow, we'll head west into Baring where we're planning to stay with some trail angels.

Off to bed.  Hoping for a mouse-free night.

Day 147 - 9/19/12 - Flying Solo

Contents:  Camp Near Chikamin Peak - Spade Lake Trail Junction (Approx. 26.9 miles)

Today was another great day though I am beat.  I'm flying solo at the moment, and it feels good.  I left Shameless in camp this morning and didn't see him all day.

It feels like I covered a ton of ground today and there was a lot of up and down.  I rolled into camp after dark and am kind of sharing a campsite with two ladies who were here first.  It isn't a big site and I feel a little bad for crashing their party but I was too tired to proceed any farther.  I haven't chatted with them as they were just heading to bed when I arrived.  I am currently camped near the Spade Lake Trail junction by Waptus Lake.  Waptus Lake is beautiful......Last summer, Joe and I spent 4th of July weekend here.  It was my first significant back packing trip post ACL reconstruction.  We hiked in via the Waptus River Trail which was the flattest and lowest trail we could find.  We wound up doing a side trip on the PCT and I announced to Joe that I wanted to thru-hike someday.  His response was something like, what are you waiting for?!?!  I definitely owe him for giving me the confidence to go for it.

Time for Peels to go to bed too!  If I wake up early, I might try to catch Team Slacker tomorrow.  Rumor has it, they're only about 4.5 miles ahead.

Just a quick update.....it is precisely 1:58 AM, and some sort of rodent has made multiple trips across my head.  In fact, I just saw the offending creature and it is a disgusting mouse with a long tail.  My food bag was parked at my feet and I just took inventory after checking for new holes (present).  Fortunately, the only thing he got to was my tortillas, but I'm going to be on mouse guard for the rest of the night.  He just came back again.  I can't wait for morning.

Day 146 - 9/18/12 Magical Hiking Out of Snoqualmie Pass

Contents:  Snoqualmie Pass - Camp Near Chikamin Peak (Approx. 11.5 miles)

Today was magical.  It was everything I had hoped it would be.  It felt so good to be in my own backyard.  But before I get to walking, more about town, aka Snoqualmie Pass!

I had a great night in the hotel with Amigo.  It felt so good to sleep in a bed.  I had a soak in the hot tub and then started laundry while he, Flappy, and Mellow hit the Summit Pancake House bar.  I was sitting around the hotel room wrapped in only a towel when I was summoned to the bar by the boys.  I was using the hotel as an opportunity to wash everything, including my rain gear which is my usual laundry wardrobe.  I initially said I couldn't come out due to the clothes issue but then decided it would be fun and that I wanted to hang.  To make a long story short, I wound up at the bar in  my puffy coat and a hotel towel skirt.  Only a thru-hiker could pull that off!

Back to today.....Everyone rendezvoused at the Pancake House for breakfast, including Shameless and Action Pack who had camped just a couple miles before the pass.  I had a veggie omelet with pancakes, same as last night.  As I was finishing my breakfast, I looked up and saw my friends Khanh and Tim from Seattle walking toward me!  I couldn't believe it!  They were stopping in for breakfast on their way to a hike.  Khanh said she'd had a hunch she would find me there.  Anyways, it was so GREAT to see them, and the spontaneity made it even more fun. 

We checked out of the hotel around 11, resupplied, and hit up Red Mountain Coffee.  I was also able to pick up the package my parents had express mailed to the Chevron Station containing a rain coat and some other warm clothes.  This was a relief, as it hadn't been there yesterday.  As it turned out, the post master had it, because a signature was required upon delivery.  At any rate, it all worked out when Martin showed up around noon.  Definitely a very informal set up but everybody was really nice and helpful!!

I wound up hiking out just with Shameless.  The rest of my crew decided to take an alternate route that passes some hot springs but misses about 35 miles of PCT (though it's only a 10-ish mile short cut).  I thought about doing the hot springs trip but have been looking forward to this stretch of trail since the moment I decided to hike the PCT.  I feel like it is a classic section of Washington....Maybe not the most beautiful but definitely the most popular, and it is linking up so many places I have adventured in the past.  Definitely no regrets and Shameless and I will meet everyone in Baring on Friday.

The hike today was gorgeous.  Shameless and I left the pass around 2:30.  I enjoyed countless special memories.  Even the notorious switchback before the Kendall Catwalk brought a smile to my face, as did Red and Snoqualmie Mountains which I have great memories of skiing.  The Cat walk was fun too......not as long as I'd remembered it though.  We got water at Ridge/Gravel Lakes where Joe and I camped before climbing Mt. Thomson a few years ago.  Then we passed Alaska Lake where I spent what was probably one of the worse weekends of my life last October.  I remembered trying to spot the trail from the lake and just wishing I could transport myself to it because I knew everything would be better then.  I was right, but things actually got better a lot sooner.  It felt so good to reflect on how far I've come.

After Alaska Lake, we cruised past Joe Lake where I spent a weekend a couple of years ago.  The trail actually passes above Alaska and Joe Lakes, but you get great views of them, and I had bushwhacked up to the PCT for a little side excursion from Joe Lake. It's hard to believe I was at Snoqualmie Pass yesterday afternoon, and now I'm in a location one would typically access from Cle Elum/Salmon La Sac.  It is so neat to stitch together all these places I have visited on separate trips.  I'm currently camped with Shameless and a guy name Log very close to the location the July calendar picture was taken that year near the Chikamin Peak.  It is beautiful....we've been in very open terrain with great (albeit smokey) views of Rainier to the south.

I could probably write about this area for pages and pages, but I have to get some sleep.  I just feel really happy to be passing through here on this amazing journey.  Life is so good!

Hasta manana!

Day 145 - 9/17/12 - Snoqualmie Pass

Contents:  Unpaved Road - Snoqualmie Pass (21.4 miles)

I'm at Snoqualmie Pass!  Craziness!  I can't wrap my head around the fact that I walked here from the Mexico border.  It just doesn't make sense!  All I can say is that it feels wonderful, and I am so happy to be with this amazing family that I truly love.

I'm currently sharing a room at the Summit Lodge with Amigo.  Smiles and H-Bomb are next door, and Mellow and Flappy are camping somewhere here at the pass.  The hotel is extremely strict about not allowing extra guests.  We ate dinner at the pancake house and then got ice cream at Lee's Summit Grocery.  It feels a little strange to be staying in a hotel so close to Seattle, but I made the decision not to go into the city a long time ago and I know it was the right call.  I definitely feel the Seattle pull though!

The hiking today was mostly downhill, but the trail was rocky so it was pretty slow.  I woke up cold and with a dewy sleeping bag and left camp before any one else was stirring.  I walked the whole way down to the pass alone but did some leap frogging with Virgo, Sidhartha, and Morisey, as well as Tangent, Holstein, Uhaul, and Lunch Box.  The first feature I recognized was the good 'ol Tooth though it took me awhile to be completely certain I had correctly identified it.  The next thing I recognized was Granite Peak, followed by Humpback Mountain, I-90, and finally the entire commonwealth area.  The visibility is terrible due to fires, but it was still exciting beyond words.  I walked right down the Summit West Ski area.

It feels like it has been a really, really, long time since I was home.  In the real world, time flies by and months disappear in the blink of an eye.  Out here, time passes so slowly.  When I finally reach camp and collapse after a day of hiking, the first miles of the morning feel like they could have been walked a week ago.  This isn't a bad thing though...it's actually pretty special.  Each day feels so full, and I'm constantly amazed by how vivid my memories are.  The other day, Smiles and I were reminiscing about the Kick-off, the day we all got super dehydrated leaving Ziggy and the Bear's, Casa de Luna, and the LA Aquaduct.  These memories feel like they could have occurred in a different lifetime, but they are still crystal clear.  We've just come so far in the meantime.

I want to give a HUGE congratulations to my good friend Kari (and Kevin, too!) who just gave birth to beautiful twin girls!  I can't wait to meet them!

Off to bed now!  Resupply tomorrow and then it's on to Stevens Pass!

Day 144 - 9/16/12 - Almost Downhill

Contents:  Urich Camp - Unpaved Road (24.9 miles)

My morning started off right!  Rob, a guy from Leavenworth who had also camped at the shelter fried an egg for me at breakfast.  So nice!  It turns out you can actually drive to the shelter, and he had brought some extra food in case he ran into thru-hikers.  I might come back and do magic there next September.  Anyways, the egg totally hit the spot and (along with 4 packets of oatmeal!) kept me pretty full this morning.  I think I need to eat more protein out here.  I went vegetarian a while ago (which may or may not continue after the trail), and I don't think I'm getting enough. I may try to pick up some hard boiled eggs at Snoqualmie Pass for the next stretch, if I can find them.

The hiking was good.  The scenery wasn't spectacular....lots of trees, logging roads, some clear cuts, and a short burn zone.  I felt good though....super thankful to be out here. 

Flappy, Amigo, Mellow, Smiles and I are camped by a logging road this evening.  Amigo is in the process of building a fire.  Snoqualmie Pass tomorrow!

Day 143 - 9/15/12 - Great Day in the Crystal Back Country

Contents:  Dewey Lake - Urich Camp (26.7 miles)

I just wanted to post a quick TR about conditions in the Crystal back country.  I found outstanding stability on all aspects.  There was a light but persistent breeze out of the south, so watch for possible wind loading during the next few days.  The snow was a bit thin in places......definitely early season conditions.  There were a fair amount of rocks, dirt, and flowers to contend with so I'd still recommend rock skies.  In addition to a Chinook Pass to Crystal Mountain traverse (which I've always wanted to do), I checked out stashes around Cement Basin, Lake Basin, Norse Peak, and Big Crow Basin.  The turns were tricky, but the snow conditions allowed for quick travel and I was able to traverse slopes I wouldn't feel comfortable on without the bomber stability.  Great views of Mt. Rainier.....Only thing missing was dinner at the Snorting Elk but overall, it was a great day for touring in the Crystal back country.  I'll try to post some pics soon.

OK, enough of that!  I started composing a TR to amuse myself as I walked along and figured I might as well write it down.  Anyway, it was a fantastic day.  It was about 3 miles from camp to Chinook Pass.  We walked right along the base of Naches Peak which I have fond memories of skiing with Joe on at least a couple of occasions.  After crossing Highway 410, we headed into the Crystal Mountain back country.  Lots of familiar terrain and much more to come as we head north.  The familiar surroundings are welcome, but they also make it harder to be completely in the moment.  Many of the areas we have passed through since arriving in Washington already have strong memories attached.  It's not a bad thing though, and perhaps it's even a helpful way to end my journey.....sort of a blending of worlds.

I'm currently stopped for the night at the Urich shelter.  We have a fire going, and there are rumors of apple-snickers fondue.  Shameless and Action Pack haven't caught up yet, but we're otherwise a complete group.  More hiking tomorrow.  Less than 300 miles to the border.

Day 142 - 9/14/12 - Smokey Mt. Rainier

Contents:  White Pass - Dewey Lake (26.3 miles)

We were back to hiking today but it went well.  We had a chill morning, then a climb after lunch, followed by up and down into camp.  We ate lunch at the Bumping River Ford which I managed without getting wet.  There is a first time for everything! Unfortunately, I forget my water bottle at the river, but Mellow was kind enough to chase after me with it, and he didn't even dump out the water.  Much appreciated!

We had what would have been spectacular views of Mt. Rainier this afternoon, but they were really obstructed by smoke.  There is a fire by White Pass, and I think the fire near Mt. Adams is still burning.  A detour was established a day or two after we passed through.  I'm currently camped by Dewey Lake with Smiles, Mellow, and Sunday.  There are other thru-hikers camped here as well and also many weekenders.  We're only about 3 miles from Chinook Pass.  Shameless, Action Pack, Amigo, and Flappy didn't make it in.  Shameless and Action Pack were the last to leave camp this morning and I think they may have taken a little side trip to visit some  of Shameless' old trail crew.  Someone left a note for him at a trail junction.  Amigo and Flappy are a different story.  They were the first from our group to leave the pass this morning but nobody's seen them all day, including folks who left well before them.  I'm guessing they took a wrong turn somewhere and are now behind us, but it's hard to say.  Hopefully, we'll all reconvene tomorrow.  

Have a great night!

Day 141 - 9/13/12 - Dragging Our Feet

Contents:  0.0 miles

Today was another great day.....I've been on a good stretch lately!  We woke up and had a delicious breakfast courtesy of Paul and Kim....pancakes, eggs, bacon and fruit.  So appreciated!  After breakfast, Paul gave us all rides into Packwood so we could take care of town chores.  I hit the PO and library and then grabbed lunch at an awesome burger joint.  Also possibly the best chocolate peanut butter milk shake I've had on the trail so far! After lunch, we made our way to the grocery store to resupply.  Also the Shell station.  Packwood is super hiker friendly......everything is located within a radius of a few blocks.

Chores down, we got rides back to Paul and Kim's place to get organized and pack up.  Amigo, Action Pack, Sunday, and I got a lift from a woman who was in town from Yakima to get her son who is on the trail but a short distance back, while Paul picked up the rest of the crew.  Back at the house I even had time for a nap in the amazing bed before it was time to return to the trail.  Kim and Paul each took a car load.  This has definitely been one of our least stressful town stops.

I think we are all starting to face the reality that we're on the home stretch.  It's super exciting and we're all tired, but it is going to be so hard to let go of this life.  I'm trying to savor every moment.  I will miss even the least glamorous respects of trail life such as sitting outside the grocery store in the parking lot repackaging food, doing laundry in my rain suit, sleeping in a pile every night, and so much more.  I think the PCT is as perfect a world as one could exist in.  Sometimes it really does feel like utopia.

Off to bed soon.  I'm currently hanging out at Lost and Found's magic listening to music.  There are fires in the area and a fire burn is in effect but it's still so pleasant.  Hiking tomorrow.  Next stop is Snoqualmie Pass!

SPECIAL UPDATE: I made it to Stevens Pass!

Hi!

I just wanted to let everyone know that I made it to Stevens Pass and am spending the night with some trail angels in Baring.  It is good to be here, but I can't believe this journey is almost over.  Last stop before Canada is Stehekin in 104 miles.  I'll probably head back to the trail sometime tomorrow. 

Have a great day! 

Love, Peelsy :-) 

NEWSFLASH - 9/17/12 - Stevens Pass Here She Comes!

Hi All,

I just received a call from Peels. All is well.  She has arrived at Snoqualmie Pass and is planning to hike out tomorrow afternoon.  Peels will be at Stevens Pass on Friday.  She is going to be in Canada before we know it!

Take care,

  sk (Peels' Mom)

Day 140 - 9/12/12 - White Pass/Packwood

Contents:  (Coyote Trail Junction - White Pass) Packwood (15.8 miles)

Today was another fantastic day.  We had a super cold night on the ridge, but everyone survived.  Lots of cuddling to stay warm....Sunday spooned me, I spooned Action Pack, and Amigo was on her other side in his bivy.  Mellow and Smiles had their own pile going and Flappy managed to set up his tent.  

We woke up to a beautiful sunrise.  Flappy got out of camp first but I was right behind him.  All of my remaining food (three oatmeal packets and instant mashed potatoes) required water and I was pretty much out.  I got some water from a creek less than a mile from camp and passed Flappy eating breakfast a few minutes later.  I pushed on another 2.5 miles or so and then stopped to cook by a lake where everyone caught up to me.  

The hiking was great.  We had one 1500 foot climb but otherwise mostly flat or down.  Lots of good views though we eventually made our way back into the trees.  On top of it all, there was trail magic provided by a woman named Lost and Found at the White Pass trail head.  She had fresh fruit, crackers, drinks, chili, and fried bread.  It was such a treat after over six days in the mountains.  

Post trail magic, Mellow and Smiles hit the highway to hitch into Packwood, about 21 miles west of the pass.  Flappy, Sunday, Amigo, Action Pack and I walked the half mile down the highway to the Cracker Barrel Store where we all needed to pick up packages (just maps for me) and then hitched from there.  We also found Shameless at the store, and he joined us for the Packwood adventure.  I got a hitch from a woman on her way back to Olympia after helping her daughter in Yakima with her brand new grandson after about 30 minutes of waiting.  

In Packwood, we rendezvoused at the eagerly anticipated Cruiser Pizza which totally lived up to the expectations.  Some kind folks also brought us a couple pitchers of beer.  After stuffing ourselves with pizza, we split into two teams, both with the goal of making it about 5 miles up the highway to the Timberline development where Smiles' friends' parents have a place with a guest house.  It was unclear whether they'd be home and Amigo, Sunday, Flappy, and I had very vague directions but we were on a mission and were under the impression the door would be left unlocked for us.  The four of us made a quick pit stop at the grocery for snacks and beer and then managed to yogi a ride form some people at the store.  The driver was this awesome guy named Carries the Bull who had been chosen by some elders to lead a sun dance ritual and sweat lodge.  They were doing some sort of kick off ceremony at a campsite in the area.  Very interesting people.  I love hitching!

Once we got dropped off at the turn off, we made our way toward the swimming pool.  We were looking for a small A-frame next to a bigger house.  It was supposed to be located somewhere to the right of the pool.  Since we didn't have cell service, we weren't able to call Smiles who had been there before.  To make matters worse, every other house was an A-frame.  Rather than patiently waiting by the pool, we elected to start snooping around, knocking on doors, and trying handles.  Fortunately, we remained under the radar and eventually stumbled upon Action Pack who had gone on a mission to find us.  We had fun.

In a matter of minutes, we were at a lovely house.  Smiles' friends' parents had just arrived home and were wonderful. The guest A-frame is beautiful.....lots of wood, a really nice bathroom, a bed downstairs, and two cots in a loft where Amigo and I are sleeping.  We're lucky to be here.  

Off to bed.  Back to town for chores tomorrow.  Less than 350 miles to the border!

Day 139 - 9/11/12 - Goat Rocks Paradise

Contents:  Midway Creek - Coyote Trail Junction (24.6 miles)

Today was pure magic.  It was one of those days that I'd like to bottle up and pull out when the going gets rough someday.  I'm exhausted and going to keep this short.  Hopefully my photos will do it some justice!

We passed through the Goat Rocks Wilderness today.  I hadn't been here before but I've always wanted to visit.  It is sandwiched between Adams and Rainier and we had gorgeous views of both.  I could pick out many features on Rainier including the Nisqually Glacier, the Muir Snowfield, Anvil Rock, the DC route, and (I think) the Emmons Glacier.  I could also see the southern aspects of the Tatoosh Mountains which are just south of Rainier.  

Our day culminated with a sunset ridge walk.  It was quite steep on both sides, almost like being on a spine.  So beautiful.

We'd been planning to make it a little farther tonight but got slowed down by some steep and rocky climbing and the gorgeous scenery that couldn't be rushed through.  We're currently camped in an unplanned dry camp along the ridge.  I had just enough water to get by and even melted a little snow to supplement though I didn't have the fuel or patience for much of that.  No moon so tons of stars.

Off to bed.  We are a big cuddle puddle tonight.  I'm definitely going to remember this day forever!

Day 138 - 9/10/12 - Chilly Day By Mt. Adams

Contents:  Bench Camp - Midway Creek (24.6 miles)

Today was chilly but it wasn't raining when we woke up.  We definitely got some drizzle during the night though.  The hiking was beautiful.  We did about 10 miles of predominately gradual up and then had mostly flat or down for the rest of the day.  The clouds burned off after just a few miles of walking and we had spectacular views of Adams just to the east.  The PCT passes within 3.8 miles of the summit and it's the second highest mountain in Washington. When I first caught a glimpse of it poking up over the trees, it looked like a Himalayan peak.  

I haven't been listening to much music lately but I picked up my first Seattle radio station today.  So awesome!  Even the traffic report brought a smile to my face.  I'm having major problems with the zipper on my Marmot Essence rain shell.  Yes, there may be an element of user error here, as I am notorious for zipper failure.  Nevertheless, it is extremely frustrating as I need that coat now more than ever!  Flappy gave me an emergency poncho which I'm going to carry and use if necessary, and I'm planning to call my Mom from  White Pass to have her send my Rab Event jacket to Snoqualmie Pass.  It'll probably be a better option for Washington anyways.  Praying for dry weather in the meantime!

We ran into a lot of deer and elk hunters today.  They were all super friendly.  We met a group from Morton at a road crossing just a couple miles before camp and they gave us beer and candy.  Definitely a nice way to end the day.  Camp is good.  Amigo, Action Pack, Flappy, Sunday, and Mellow and Smiles who caught us after lunch are here.  We got a report from a SOBO hiker that Shameless skipped the Trout Lake resupply but is cranking out bigger miles to get to White Pass sooner.  We're all hungry.  My dinner consisted of some dehydrated sweet potatoes that I got out of a hiker box and a candy bar.  The sweet potatoes tasted like baby food.  I'm totally craving pizza.  Goat Rocks tomorrow and White Pass on Wednesday! 

Day 137 - 9/09/12 - Bunk Magic

Contents:  Junction Lake - Secret Bench Camp (22.6 miles)

Well, it rained last night.  Action Pack woke us up around midnight, and she, Shameless, and I scrambled to pitch our tents.  Flappy was the only smart one who had set up before going to bed, and Amigo has been camping in a bivy sack ever since Sleeping Bag left.  So much for heat lightening which I had declared we were experiencing before going to bed.....Do we ever get heat lightening in the Northwest?  In spite of the inconvenience it was actually kind of fun.  Our campsite was pretty pathetic and small and we were virtually on top of each other.  Big balagan! (that's Hebrew for mess and one of our favorite expressions out here).  I took a few pictures of the madness this morning.  We've started calling it the refugee camp.

We woke up to fog but no rain.  The walking today was way easier than yesterday.  We were in the trees but it was flat and the cool air kept us moving.  I hiked in my rain coat, rain pants, hat, and gloves for much of the day.  We were all super hungry today and I think everyone ate unscheduled food.  As for me, I downed an extra protein bar and two unscheduled oatmeal packets after dinner.  Speaking of which, I didn't think I'd ever say this but I have fallen in love with oatmeal out here!  It is so warm, filling, and delicious.  I totally crave it!

Shameless hitched to Trout Lake via Highway 23 which we crossed just a couple miles before camp but the rest of us resisted the temptation of town and pushed on.  There is a Buddhist temple in Trout Lake and our guide indicated that they regularly stock a cooler with fresh fruit at the road but we didn't find it.  I have to say it was a bit disappointing.  On the bright side, we'd heard from some day hikers that there was a trail closure due to a fire that started during the storm last night, but the trail was fully open when we arrived. 

I'm currently camped by a small creek with Amigo, Flappy, Action Pack, Sunday (who we ran into this morning....he had slowed down to let us catch up), Super Girl, and Little Bear.  There is a great fire pit and benches too.  We'd been planning to push on a little farther but decided this set up was too nice to pass up.  And it's hard to beat an early night in camp.

Hope all is well.  Hasta manana!

Day 136 - 9/08/12 - Endless Up

Contents:  Panther Creek Campsite - Junction Lake (25.4 miles)

Today was hard!  I feel like all I did was climb.  We did over 3000 feet of elevation gain straight out of camp and then had a brief respite before starting another big climb.  We were mostly in the trees, but got frequent views of Adams.  I could see the SW Chutes, the route I skied summer before last.  It looked like you could still ski a continuous line from the false summit, but it would definitely be narrow.  Not sure if people are still doing it!

I'm camped with Amigo, Action Pack, Flappy, and Shameless.  We have thunder and lightening but Flappy was the only one of us smart enough to set up a tent.  Really hoping we're not all scrambling in a few hours.  

I've been seeing a lot of fall colors.  I first noticed some subtle changes leaving Timberline but they've become more pronounced since.  The days are feeling short too!

Off to bed.  Have a great night!

Day 135 - 9/07/12 - Ferns and Bridges

Contents:  Windy Ridge - Panther Creek Campsite (24.1 miles)

Good day today.  We hiked through a lot of beautiful forest.  Flappy was loving it.  I walked with Little Bear and Super Girl for the first time and really enjoyed getting to know them both.  Other things worth noting....I took a great nap at lunch.  I am trying to get off the Crystal L and have been super tired (and suffering from caffeine withdrawal headaches).  Action Pack fell in the creek at our first water stop but was ok.  Amigo has a severe case of monkey butt.  (He requested that I document this).  Lastly, I made a very salty spaghetti dinner courtesy of Mad Dog.  It was my first night of pasta with red sauce and it was quite tasty, but I think I should have gone with half a sauce packet instead of a whole.  Not bad though!

We are camped fairly close to a car campground, and some hippies invited us over for music.  I think Action Pack, Shameless, Little Bear, and Super Girl are going to check it out, but I am too tired and off to bed.  I'm sure it'll be fun though.

Big climb tomorrow.  Have a great night.

Day 134 - 9/06/12 - Home Sweet Home: Back in Washington!

Contents:  Cascade Locks - Windy Ridge (11.5 miles)

I'm back in Washington!  I've been dreaming about this day for months and it feels incredible!  We crossed the Columbia River via the Bridge of the Gods this afternoon.  I'm so proud of myself for making it here.  Barring catastrophic disaster, I know I'll make it to Canada now.  We are on the home stretch.

I'm currently camped on a windy ridge with Amigo, Action Pack, Shameless, Flappy, Little Bear, Super Girl, and Log.  Mellow and Smiles are probably just a short distance behind.  We are all feeling it getting out of town and had crazy heavy loads with 6+ days of food.  Definitely the most we've carried in a long time, and we did a lot of climbing too.  On top of that, we're currently dry camped with about 8 miles to water in the morning, so I carried 3 liters the last couple miles.  Enough complaining though!  It was a wonderful day and it feels good to be back on the trail.  Lots to look forward to in Washington.  I'm especially excited to link up many places where I've done adventures in the past. 

Off to bed!  Hasta Manana.

Day 133 - 9/05/12 - Shrek's Vortex

Contents:  0.0 miles

We zeroed today....it wasn't exactly planned but it was so nice.  Kirsten gave me a ride back to Cascade Locks first thing in the morning.  The drive probably took just over an hour including a quick stop at the famous Voo Doo Donuts to pick up some treats per Shameless' request.

I got dropped off outside Char Burger.  I'd eaten breakfast before leaving Portland and wasn't hungry but figured there was a good chance I'd find my posse there.  I didn't find them, but I did run into Panama Red, H-Bomb, and Baro and wound up sitting with them while they finished breakfast. 

After leaving Char Burger, I stopped by the PO and then headed down to an ice cream/breakfast burrito shop where Mellow, Smiles, Action Pack, Shameless, Flappy, and Amigo were hanging out.  Sunday was there as well.  I hadn't seen him since Kennedy Meadows before the High Sierra.  Next, I picked up some HEET at a gas station.  I was planning also to hit the grocery but ran into Mad Dog who was on his way up to a trail angel named Shrek's house.  My friends had all stayed at Shrek's place last night.  I decided to join Mad Dog as Shrek's house was very close and he thought he might have some food he could give me.

Shrek's house was awesome, and I ended up hanging out there for quite awhile before motivating to resupply.  The day was already looking like a zero.  After shopping, I headed back to Shrek's where I spent the rest of the day with the exception of a late afternoon diner and milkshake outing with Shameless, Flappy, Amigo, and Virgo and an evening trip to the grocery with Smiles and Mellow.  Most of my time was spent napping, watching the movie The Way (about El Camino De Santiago, a pilgrimage in Spain) and hanging out around the outdoor fire pit.  It was a great day and one I will certainly cherish.

Hiking (hopefully!) tomorrow.  Have a great night!

SPECIAL UPDATE: Greetings from White Pass!

Good Morning Friends!

It's Peels this time!  I just wanted to let everyone know that I made it to White Pass yesterday and got a hitch into Packwood to resupply and take care of other town chores.  I'll be headed back to White Pass this evening but will probably spend the night at some magic and hike out in the morning. 

I'm just under 100 PCT miles south of Snoqualmie Pass and expect to arrive there on Monday.  I'm planning to stay up at the pass, but it will feel incredible to be so close to Seattle.   

Less than 350 miles to Canada!  Thanks for all the support.  It's GREAT to be back in Washington.

Love, Peels :-)  

Day 132 - 9/04/12 - Portland

Contents:  Huckleberry Mountain Trail - Cascade Locks (23.6 miles)

Today was an unbelievable day!  I am in Portland!  I reached the Washington border at Cascade Locks this afternoon.  The hike into town was beautiful.  I got my first view of Mt. Rainier, a moment I've been fantasizing about for the last four months.  It almost brought me to tears.  I spent most of my day on the Eagle Creek Trail, a scenic 15.4 mile alternate route that passed many waterfalls including one that I was able to walk behind.  Lots of down, as Cascade Locks is the low point for the entire PCT.  After lunch, I peeled out ahead of my posse in order to get to cell service ASAP.  I wanted to call my best friend, Kirsten, who lives in Portland.  I'd last spoken to her at Timberline, and we had tentative plans to rendezvous in Cascade Locks this evening though I had told her there was a chance the group would decide to head into Portland, though we had nixed this idea after zeroing at Timberline.  I was hoping Kirsten could still make it out to Cascade Locks.  

Kirsten and her brother, Andrew, who was visiting from the Bay area, wound up beating me to Cascade Locks, and we had a wonderful reunion in the CharBurger parking lot.  It was amazing to walk up and see them standing there and I immediately decided to head back to Portland for the night after Kirsten promised to return me to Cascade first thing in the morning.  

I've had a perfect evening.  It is so special to be here.  Kirsten, Andrew, Colin (Kirsten's husband) and I just got back from dinner and ice cream.  I feel like I'm home.  This is the first time I've strayed from the trail or my trail family.  I am so happy here but in some ways the PCT feels like a dream.  This scares me.  When it's all over, I want the trail to stay close.  I don't want to lose the connection.  Right now, I feel like I'm going to wake up in the morning and drive back to Seattle.  

It's also strange to think about the last time I was in Portland.  It was the weekend after Joe and I moved out of our house, and I drove down for the kind of TLC that only a best friend can provide.  At the time I was clinging to my PCT dream, and remember thinking that perhaps my next visit to Portland would be via the trail.  Back then, it seemed like such a long shot.....I don't know if I actually believed I would get on the trail, let alone make it through all of California and Oregon. Yet here I am!  In many ways, being here seems as surreal if not more surreal than the trail!  It's a strange world!

Off to bed.  Thanks to Kirsten for being the best friend a girl could have!  I have known her since 2nd grade.  I can't think of a single time when she wasn't there for me.  I feel so lucky.

Washington tomorrow!

Day 131 - 9/03/12 - Weary Wheels

Contents:  Timberline Lodge - Junction with Hicleberry Mountain Trail (21.4 miles)

We made it out of Timberline today!  Fortunately for me, many of my comrades were a bit hung over and moving slowly.  No hang over for me, but I knew my legs would still be tired from the 55 miler.  I got out of camp first after an oatmeal breakfast.  Smiles and Amigo hit the buffet again, while Shameless, Action Pack, and Mellow slept in and got out of camp quite a bit later.  Flappy escaped sometime after Smiles and Amigo but before the rest.

The hiking was good.  My feet and legs were sore, but they could have been much worse.  I took the first 5-ish miles super slowly and then rested at a creek where Smiles and Amigo caught me.

The three of us took a 2.1 alternate route that went past Ramona Falls.  It bypassed 2.1 miles of the PCT and was pretty cool.  Lots of day hikers.  Flappy caught us as we were stopped for lunch at the end of the alternate.  Otherwise, we walked through lots of forest with frequent views of Hood, and occasional views of Adams and Helens.  The terrain wasn't nearly as flat as it's been. 

There was a much appreciated beer and soda cache at around a few miles before camp.  Flappy, Amigo, Smiles, and I had a great time there.  Flappy gave us some great demonstrations that I can't elaborate on.....Needless to say we were all in stitches.

We've all made it to camp and have been cozied up next to Amigo's fire.  Cascade Locks tomorrow!  I can't believe it!

Day 130 - 9/02/12 - Wedding Crash Fail!

Contents:  0.0 miles

Today was an unplanned zero in Timberline.  Believe it or not, unplanned zeros are the absolute best!  I kicked the morning off with another hotel shower.  The showers are technically for guests only, but the gal at the front desk yesterday had told me that I was welcome to use one as long as I was discreet.  I decided a second shower was in order after waking up feeling more than a little stiff.  The hot water definitely helped.

After my shower, I broke camp and then met everyone at the lodge for the most fantastic breakfast buffet ever.  It was probably my favorite trail breakfast yet.  I ate two waffles, some veggie scramble, and heaps and heaps of fresh fruit.  So good, and it was followed by an even better nap in one of the hotel lobbies.  

Post nap, I gathered a few more items for my resupply from the hiker box and ski lodge vending machine.  The stores were pretty pathetic and contained mostly souvenirs, but many people had sent themselves packages, and I had raided the well stocked hiker box last night.  I just needed a few more snack items today.  I then hit up the ski lodge cafeteria for a milk shake and headed back to the hotel pizza restaurant/bar to hang out with the whole gang.

I had a great time at the pizza place.  Before I knew it, plans were developing to crash a very fancy wedding that was underway at the hotel.  We were all game to stick around for another night if dancing was involved!  I actually would have stuck around for just about anything.....I wanted to postpone more walking as long as possible!  Anyway, we hung around at the restaurant until they were about to close and then Shameless and I snuck into the hotel hot tub while the rest of the posse headed to the bar upstairs.  The hot tub felt absolutely fabulous to my tired body, and we had no trouble getting in.  The door wasn't even locked!

After hot tubbing, Shameless and I joined the others upstairs at the bar and watched the wedding party unfolding on the floor below.  The bar was basically in a circular balcony, and we had a great view of the event.  We'd noticed that the entrance to the party wasn't well monitored.  Our plan was to wait until people were drunk and the dancing was in full swing and then walk in one at a time and join the fun.  I think this plan would have worked, but Shameless got a little cocky and went down and took a free drink while the toasts were being delivered and he was busted by a hotel manager who watched the whole thing.  It was a bit disappointing as most of us just wanted to dance and weren't going to take from the bar, but oh well!  It was still a night to remember.  Lots of innocent fun out here.

Hiking tomorrow.  Canada is getting close!

Day 129 - 9/01/12 - 55 Miles = Certified Bad Asses

Contents:  Olallie Lake Resort - Timberline Lodge (54.2 miles)

Ok.....so maybe it was only 54.2 miles, but Flappy and I did it!  We cruised the 55 miles between Olallie Lake Resort and Timberline Lodge in about 21 hours and had an absolute blast.

We left Olallie Lake shortly after 5 PM following a hodge podge dinner.  I'd eaten mac and cheese late in the afternoon and wasn't super hungry but managed to eat some  granola with raisins and a Butterfinger candy bar.  The hiking was easy and we knocked out the first 20 miles to Warm Springs Creek before midnight.  We ate our first "lunch" there, crackers and cheese for me, and I did a short foot soak.  It was definitely cold and dark, though the full moon was wonderful.  It's always a little depressing when the sun goes down, especially when I'm working hard and know that I will be doing the exact same thing when the sun rises again, but the moon brightened our moods and Flappy was excellent company.  Shameless and Lava Goat had also left notes of encouragement along the way.

The second 20 miles went pretty quickly as well.  Flappy dropped his winter hat shortly after taking it off and had to backtrack a bit but was fortunately able to find it.  I hiked on a short distance and then stopped until he caught up.  We also cranked up some tunes on our iPhones.  The speakers aren't great but they work well enough and we blasted Tom Petty followed by Beetles' White Album as we charged through the forest singing at the top of our lungs.  Our usual crew, Team Slacker, was camped a short distance off the trail at Little Crater Lake with some of Shameless' friends who were providing magic.  We passed those guys around 3 AM but didn't head into their camp.  Other highlights were a ridiculously long downed tree that Flappy and I both thought might have been a hallucination and gorgeous Timothy Lake which was magical with a little fog in the moonlight.  Also, my good friend Gene from Seattle had buried a couple of beers for me near Timothy Lake while on a mountain biking adventure earlier this summer.  Sadly we weren't able to locate the beers, but we sure had fun looking.  Drinking a beer probably wouldn't have been a great idea anyways, as my stomach was already upset from only eating two chocolate muffins and a bag of Fritos since midnight.

We celebrated the sunrise with Isreal Kanamawiwoo'ole's Somewhere Over the Rainbow, a special request from Peelsy.  It was so uplifting, definitely one of my favorite parts of the hike.  We stopped for our second lunch and water around 8.  We were probably  about 40 miles deep at this point.  I don't think either of us could stomach junk food so I cooked mac and cheese and Flappy had mashed potatoes.  We thought it would pull us in (and it probably did)  but fatigue was setting in and our pace slowed for the last 15 miles.

We arrived at Timberlake Lodge around 2:30, over 21 hours after we'd left Olallie Lake.  The last few miles were super tough and sandy.  Tons of climbing.  It was definitely beautiful but we were beat.  We did a lot of moaning and groaning.....it seemed to help. We rocked the Beastie Boys for a while but they became too obnoxious for our tired states.  We eventually took to singing Hallelujah as loudly as possible.  We both knew all the lyrics by heart though I'm not convinced we were singing the verses in the correct order.  I'm sure we frightened a day walker or two!

We ate pizza at the lodge and made camp just a couple minutes away.  We are camped at the base of Hood and have spectacular views of both Hood and Jefferson near where we started our day.  Breakfast buffet tomorrow.  Wooly, Black Beard, and Destroyer are here and the rest of our crew should roll in first thing in the morning.

Thanks to Flappy for being the perfect hiking partner.  We created a rule early on where we could only make quantitative statements if they were positive, and we stuck to that plan.  Neither of us ever considered stopping and we shared countless laughs.

Have a great night!  Team Strong.....is signing off!

Day 128 - 8/31/12 -Resting Up For the 55 Mile Challenge

Contents: 0.0 miles

Hello!  I am writing this entry a little earlier than usual, as I am getting ready to embark on the 55 mile challenge.  Mud Flap (Flappy) and I are planning to leave Olallie Lake around 5.  We'll knock out a few easy miles before the sun sets, push through the night, and then crank out the really fatiguing miles during the day tomorrow when we'd normally be walking anyways.  With some luck, we should walk into Timberline Lodge late tomorrow afternoon in time for a massive pizza celebration.

My day has been good so far.  I hit up the Olallie Lake store for a chocolate muffin after breakfast and also grabbed some junk food for the trail but have since been holed up in my tent.  I slept well last night and am definitely more rested.  I feel a little nervous, almost the way I would before a marathon but I know I shouldn't because I can stop and make camp at any point.  I just hope this isn't a poor choice for my already very beat up feet and legs.

Hasta manana, hopefully from Timberline Lodge!

Day 127 - 8/30/12 - Hello Hood, Adams, and Helens!

Content:  Shale Lake - Olallie Lake Resort (23.6 miles)

Today was AWESOME!  We had great views of Jefferson and then topped out at a pass after a long climb and got our first views of Mt. Hood, Mt. Adams, and Mt. St. Helens.  It was unreal.  Bobcat had already dropped down the other side and heard me hooting and hollering in what she could only describe as a visual orgasm.  It was definitely pure joy to see those mountains.  I went from unfamiliar territory to feeling like I was in my own backyard in a matter of seconds, and I am so happy to be home.

We encountered quite a bit of snow today.   Oregon and Washington had such huge snow years that I have no doubt we'll see more snow in the next few weeks than we did in the High Sierra in June.  We managed to do some glissading and had to cross a snow bridge over the creek where we ate lunch.  I love it.

I'm currently camped near Olallie Lake Resort with Mud Flap, Shameless, Bobcat, Black Beard, and Destroyer.  The temps dropped below freezing last night and I was miserably cold and wet from dew/frost, so I begrudgingly set up my tent this evening.  I am really hoping for a better night of sleep.

Big plans that I haven't yet revealed in the journal....I am going to try the 55 mile challenge which is a 55 mile, 24 hour push, between Olallie Lake Resort and Timberline Lodge at Mt. Hood.  Yes, I may be crazy but I think I can pull it off.  Mud Flap is on board as well.  Our plan is to spend most of tomorrow resting and then start the challenge around 5 PM.  I'd originally been planning to hit the trail a little later (maybe 8-ish) but pushed the time forward to accommodate Mud Flap.  I also have to buy him pizza and beer at Timberline.....so worth it in order to have a partner in crime!  It's going to be an epic push but I'm excited to give it a shot.

Please, please send me good vibes over the next couple days!  I'm definitely going to need all the help I can get!

Day 126 - 8/29/12 Fall Is In The Air

Contents:  Big Lake Youth Camp - Shale Lake (29.4 miles)

Great day today.  We woke up to a foggy morning but the clouds quickly burned off and we had another beautiful day.  About five miles from camp, we crossed Highway 20 at Santiam Pass.  From there, we headed into a massive burn area. Burn areas are usually pretty awful (sun exposed and not very scenic) but this one was a different story.  The air was cool and crisp and the lack of foliage on the trees gave us great views of the Sisters to the south and Mt. Jefferson to the north.  I walked much of the day with Bobcat, a cool gal from Bellingham, WA, who has done quite a bit of climbing and is getting into back country skiing.  Hopefully we can get out for a tour or two this winter.

We thought about stopping for the night about three miles back but were all feeling good and pushed on to Shale Lake.  I'd had a stomach ache and headache since yesterday but finally am feeling like I rounded the corner this afternoon.  Camp is beautiful and we are taking a break from the Beetles tonight in order to sing Hallelujah.  

On to Olallie Lake Resort tomorrow!  Have a great night!

Day 125 - Peace for Peels After 2000 Miles

Contents:  McKenzie Pass - Big Lake Youth Camp (11.4 miles)

Today was another fantastic day.  After a tasty breakfast of cereal and fresh fruit, Stephanie and I gave Action Pack, Smiles, and Amigo a ride to the PO in Sisters which was about half an hour from the Browns' house.  On the way out of Bend, we stopped at a great little coffee shop to pick up some famous Ocean Rolls and coffee for Stephanie and Peels who is a bit sleep deprived.  The Ocean Rolls were a definite hit, and we had a stress-free ride to Sisters.  It was also super nice to squeeze in a few last minutes with Stephanie on my way back to Bend.

Shameless, Mellow, Mud Flap, and I got a lift up to McKenzie Pass from trail angel Lloyd Gust who was kind enough to pick us up at Stephanie and Dave's house.  Lloyd was a retired man who had made four trips with thru-hikers yesterday.  Really nice guy who knew a lot about the area.

The hiking today was pretty chill.  We had a few miles of annoying lava but eventually got back on some softer, less rocky ground.  The best sections of trail were two parts that Shameless worked on a couple years ago as a trail crew leader.  It was fun to hear him talk about what they had done, and we are currently camped at the site he stayed at with his crew.  

We're about a third of a mile from Big Lake Youth Camp where I picked up a package of food and some new shoes.  Shameless, Mud Flap, and Bobcat are here, and I wouldn't be surprised if a few others roll in later.  There was quite a crowd at Big Lake Youth Camp.  Mellow is a little ways ahead, probably trying to catch up with Smiles, Action Pack, and Amigo.

We hit mile 2000 today and we're less than 650 PCT miles south of the Canada border.  Time is flying now.  I can't say enough about how great it was to see Stephanie and Dave as they really helped me reconnect with my life in Seattle.  There's no doubt I'm going to go through a major grieving period when I get off the trail, but I'm starting to look forward to building my new life.  I've had a lot of time to think on the trail, and I'm planning to make some changes.  

For now, I've decided not to return to the corporate world.  I've tasted freedom, and I can't go back to the confining walls of a cube.  I've also discovered how little I need to be happy.  I'm having the summer of my life with little more than food, water, and about 14 pounds of belongings on my back.  My current (tentative) plan is to return to Seattle, find a cheap studio apartment in Fremont or Wallingford, and then take a month long EMT/Wilderness course in Leavenworth, WA.  I also plan to apply for a spring certified nursing assistant (CNA) program in Seattle.  I've been thinking about the CNA program for quite a while now but was originally planning to get a non-professional job between the time I get off the trail and the time' I'll start school in the spring.  However, I've realized that I'm going to have money left over after the trail and I wouldn't be able to make much money before starting school anyways, so this is a perfect opportunity to open some doors with the Wilderness EMT course.  This is a program I've thought about doing in the past but haven't had time for and I can only imagine that it will benefit me as a CNA.  At a minimum I can definitely see myself getting involved in volunteer SAR in the Cascades.

Why the CNA program?  Any time I meet someone new out here, I always make a point of asking them what they've done for work.  Most of us aren't independently wealthy, and yet we've all found a way to escape the "real" world and spend 5+ months hiking across the country  Almost everyone of us managed to save enough money to survive out here and/or has a job with an enormous amount of flexibility.  I wanted to know the secrets of other thru-hikers!  Anyways, the predominate careers that I heard mentioned over and over again were trail maintenance leadership and the CNA. Don't get me wrong - I gave (and continue to give) plenty of thought to trail maintenance.  However, for the time being, I've decided that I would prefer to keep my passion for the outdoors separate from my professional life.  Also, my love for the outdoors extends beyond hiking and I worry that I would miss out on other types of adventures if I were leading trail crews for weeks or months at a time.  As for becoming a CNA, many of you know that I've been interested in nursing for quite some time and even went so far as to take some pre-reqs for an RN program several years ago.  I chickened out after deciding it was too big of a switch from what I was doing at the time and that I wasn't ready to make the commitment, but I don't think I ever totally let go of the idea.  While I won't make nearly as much money as a CNA versus an RN, it will be a low investment way to get my feet wet in the nursing field.  Also, CNA's often have a lot of job flexibility and there are many opportunities for contract work (hence the great number I've met along the PCT).  At this point, flexibility and feeling like I am helping others are my number one career requirement. 

Lots of changes ahead, and these plans may all change too.  However, this is what I'm thinking at the moment and it feels right.  There's no doubt the trail has chilled me out a lot and I'm extremely open to new opportunities.  I've also become much more adverse to commitment (the thought of even signing a six month lease is terrifying now), and I have a lot of trouble looking more than a couple of months into the future. For the entire summer, I have avoided making plans beyond my next resupply.  I'm definitely just going with the flow now, and it feels really good.  I don't fret about every little detail like I've been known to do in the past.  I know life will work out one way or another.

Off to bed!  More hiking manana.  Hope all is well for you!  

Day 124 - 8/27/12 - Bend Zero

Contents:  0.0 miles

Today was exhausting but super productive and wonderful.  Mellow and Smiles kicked off the morning with a delicious pancake and fruit breakfast.  More thanks to Stephanie and Dave for stocking up on food before our arrival.  After breakfast, Stephanie was kind enough to let us take their Subaru so the seven of us piled in (two in the back hatch) and I became chauffer for the day.  I hadn't driven a car since April 24th, and it felt great to get behind the wheel.  And you can't beat a little Journey for some good cuisin' tunes!

Our field trip into the bustling metropolis of Bend was certainly an adventure.  None of us had any lay of the land, so we'd pretty much just pick a chore or destination, determine where to drive, get 'er done, and then move on to the next item on the list.  We hit REI, multiple POs, lunch, downtown, a hotel where Amigo needed to pick up a package, grocery outlet, Safeway, 711 for HEET, TJ Maxx, the liquor store, Radio Shack and probably other places I am forgetting.  Half the time I felt like we were driving in circles and the other half of the time I felt like a ping pong ball bouncing from one end of town to the other.  Nevertheless, tiring as it was, our spirits remained high and we got everything done.  Can't ask for much more than that!

We did a BBQ dinner at Stephanie and Dave's place and everyone is currently watching the Hunger Games.  I was there for the beginning and enjoyed what I saw but was just too beat to stay up.

Back to the trail in the morning.  A few of us (myself excluded) need to stop in Sisters before heading back to the trail, so Stephanie or I will drop those folks off first thing in the morning.  The hitch up to the pass from Sisters shouldn't be too bad.  The other three and I will get a ride all the way to the trail head from a local angel who is picking us up at the Brown's house at 10.

Thank you again to Stephanie and Dave!  I love you guys and am already looking forward to a Bend ski adventure this winter!  You are amazing friends!

New photos - Ashland to Cascade Locks

Check out Peel's new photo album.  (See link to Photos on her home page).  It has photos from Ashland to Cascade Locks.  Enjoy!

SPECIAL UPDATE: Peels Back in Washington

We got a call from Peels, and she just crossed the border into 
Washington via the Bridge of the Gods near Cascade Locks! She is 
currently about 500 miles south of the Canada border at PCT mile 
2,156. Her first Washington resupply will be at White Pass in 150 
miles. She expects to arrive there on Tuesday. We'll try to keep you 
posted as she moves across Washington!

Day 123 - 8/26/12 - The Best Trail Angels Ever

Contents:  Obsidian Falls - McKenzie Pass (12.1 miles)

I'm in Bend with my awesome friends Stephanie and Dave!  I am so happy to be here.  The have been absolutely amazing and I don't know how I'll ever thank them enough for everything they've done.  It is also super late so I'm going to keep this short.

The hiking went fast this morning.  We knocked out the 12 miles to the road by noon.  There was a cooler with fresh fruit about a mile before the highway.  So nice!  The last mile was rocky and tedious.....lots of lava and more to come!  Definitely hard on the feet.

We'd been planning to meet Stephanie at McKenzie Pass, but my SPOT transmissions hadn't gone out so she didn't know when to show up.  Instead, we wound up hitching into the town of Sisters (on the way to Bend) and she picked us up there.  I was glad it worked out and we didn't somehow miss her.  Amigo, Shameless, and I got a ride from a really nice woman who had hiked a section of the PCT a few weeks ago and discovered the world of thru hiking.  She was actually at the pass looking for hikers to take into Sisters.  Smiles, Mud Flap, and a guy name High Life were able to get lifts all the way to Bend, and we rendezvoused with them at a place called McMenniman's for lunch after dropping off our gear and Lander the dog at Stephanie's house. 

After lunch, Stephanie drove Smiles, Mud Flap, Shameless, and Amigo back home so they could get started with showers and laundry.  Stephanie and I then took off to pick up Mellow and Action Pack who had been dropped off at a Mexican joint and were eating lunch.  It was great to get Stephanie to myself if only for a few minutes, and we enjoyed a pleasant hour or so on the deck of the restaurant with Mellow and Action Pack.

We eventually made our way back to Stephanie and Dave's townhouse where the PCT had pretty much taken over.  Before I forget, I want to thank Stephanie and Dave for the awesome plate they decorated with a dry-erase welcome message.  So sweet!  Anyways, showers, internet use, laundry, movie watching, and eating and drinking were in full swing.  Action Pack, Mellow, and I joined the rotation and then we proceeded to raid Stephanie and Dave's closet for clothes to wear out for the night.  All of us girls found super hot dresses (thank you Khanh, for giving Stephanie the one I wore!) and I think we finally managed to impress our boys.  And I couldn't stop smiling at Mellow, my Jersey boy with a mohawk, who was sporting a Vert Fest t-shirt and Carharts.  He definitely could have passed for one of my Seattle homeys!  So cute, though his smile and baby blues can always melt my heart!

Anyway, dinner was a blast.  We went to the world famous Deschutes Brewery.  Due to limited car space, Stephanie, Kevin (a friend of Stephanie and Dave's who was joining us for dinner) and I rode bikes into town.  It was all downhill and as always it felt great to be on a bike.  We weren't able to get a table right away, but there was live music upstairs and we got to hang out there until our name came up.

After dinner, Dave, Smiles, Kevin, the car and the bikes went home while the rest of us (Action Pack, Mellow, Shameless, Amigo, Mud Flap, Stephanie, and me) hit a dive bar down the street.  We had a good time there before eventually calling a cab to get home.

I can't thank Stephanie and Dave enough for all they're doing for us.  They have welcomed seven guests (thru-hikers, no less!) into their home, and let us take over their lives.  Seeing them has been good for me not only because they are great friends, but because they've brought back a connection to my Seattle world.  My Seattle life has felt very distant lately. Right now, going home seems scary but it's a reality.  I'm going to have to face in less than a month and a half.  It felt so good to talk about friends from home and the world of skiing and climbing which I'm missing out here.  It was awesome to think about all the friends and adventures I have waiting for me after the PCT.