8/17/20; mile: 1,774; elevation: 5,039 ft.
The water from Grizzly Creek is kinda nasty looking, but I was able to get my bottles into a flowing portion to get clearer looking water. I cowboy camped last night under some trees and took the time to tend to my new blisters. Why is this happening now? I sent Sarah a message via the Garmin to send the Hoka’s back to me at Shelter Cove Resort, several days ahead of me. I gotta try something different (or go back to what was working).
The starts with a climb. Well not really. It first starts with coffee and oatmeal in bed. Then packing and taking a shit. THEN, I start the day’s jaunt with a climb. Now, this is an Oregon climb, so it isn’t steep. But there’s no views either. Just trees and remote dirt roads. The one point where you get some views is going around Brown Mountain, but now we’re walking on lava rock. Yes, there is always something to complain about.
When I get to highway 140, I could turn left and go to Fish Lake Resort. Food, maybe beer and a bed. And maybe an easier excuse to quit. Nah, it’s too late in the day to get my money’s worth. Plus, campsites just north of the highway are right along a flowing creek. Couldn’t ask for a much easier campsite. There’s even logs to sit on and low branches to hang clothes to dry after rinsing.
For three days now I have been hiking alone. I haven’t seen any of the other hikers since I left Ashland. Where are they? Not that I have a strong desire to hike with others, but I think I need a social boost. Maybe somebody who could understand about my physical and emotional issues at this stage. Hard saying. But I know I need something to change. I can’t just keep going like this.