4/16/20, mile: 266, Elevation 6,834 ft.
The morning was cold in the canyon, which still had snow patches. With my new found realiation that snow was over for a while, I was motivated to hit the trail. The walking was easy, the path smooth and with a gentle downhill gradient. What could be better? When the path left the canyon, the sun was out and it was warm. The smell of hot pine needles reminds of the Trinity Alps in June. Slowly, the trail left the forest and entered a new zone of scattered trees and paths everywhere. This is certainly a dry zone, reminding me of Plumas and Lassen National Forests.
If I am to stay on the trail beyond the Highway 18 crossing, I need to find water. There are no official sources, but I had my eye open for snow melt and small seasonal springs. I posted on a forum I’m on asking for local advice about resupplying. About 15 minutes after posting that and getting back on trail, I met my next trail angel
He caught up to me and we started chatting. He asked if I needed a ride to town. When I told I wasn’t in need, really, but I also need to go to the Post Office. He said sure! So I huffed and puffed trying to keep up with him for the last 2 miles to his car at the 18 crossing.
He completed the trail in 2015 and helps hikers when he can. He took me to Dollar Tree and Von’s and waited while I did my shopping. Time was running short for the P.O. I was feeling rushed to sort and pack my stuff and finally just asked him to take to the nearest place I could crash for the night to allow me to organize (no open lodging available). Instead, he put me up in his backyard tiny home.
Roof, bed, shower, laundry, heat and hot and cold running water. A liquor store down the street sold me beer, and the only town food open within walking distance was Jack in the Crack. Oh and then the unpack/repack and food sorting. The worst part about any resupply.
Absolutely amazing trail magic again. Such kind people in this world, all you have to do is keep an open mind and heart to find them.
Savior out
I would like to stay there!
I enjoy reading about your hike. Thank you for sharing. —– John H—–
Thank you for your blog Ron! It’s nice to live vicariously while doing phone support for ARC at home. I’m glad to hear your knee is doing better. Try adding some minor stomach crunches and/or leg lifts before getting out of bed. They can help your back, and therefore your legs, tremendously. Looking forward to your next installment.