7/4/20; mile: 1,006; elevation: 9,078ft.
Today was marked by a new personal best of 23.6 miles aided by a relatively flat trail. The morning started with crossing the creek next to the camp, then meandered along valley floors following creeks and rivers. The biggest challenge was the mosquitoes at the Dorothy Creek crossing. Though not dangerous, it was just wide and kinda deep, meaning no rocks and logs to have a dry foot crossing. As we all were trying to figure out the best place to cross, Headfirst joined the group. I decided to just put my sandels on and get my feet wet. While doing so, the mosquitoes were the worst I’ve seen. Bad enough for me to finally use the head net I’ve been carrying for hundreds of miles.
After the crossing, I was alone for quite some time. When I stopped to take my “lunch” break on the upper reaches of Dorothy Creek, I pulled out some of the 4th of July gifts that Sarah had Heiny deliver to me….temporary tattoos and red/white/blue M&M’s. After that, it was more marching until I caught the crew finishing their break at Dorothy Lake where I’m fortunate enough to find a left-behind titanium spoon. Not that I need to carry more stuff, but someone may need it someday…
Just after Dorothy Lake is Dorothy Pass, and the exit for Yosemite National Park. C-ya! After that, we pass by some more lakes with more people…we’re getting closer to trailheads and it’s a holiday weekend.
And then what? 1,000 miles! Oh my, this is amazing. I can’t believe I’ve walked this entire distance. Truly an amazing feeling. And being with a crew makes it more special. After this, it’s more downhill until we cross the Walker River (quite small up here), and then it’s a group walk to camp. It’s a couple of miles of uphill climbing (which I hate at the end of the day) to set us up for Sonora Pass and resupply tomorrow. At camp, I offer tattoos to my buddies (denied) as well as the M&M’s (vultures!). Tomorrow is going to be a special day.