Day 51: Hike, Heat, Repeat

5/6/20, mile: 478, elevation: 3,389 ft.

No pics today, sorry. That’s right. Not one damn picture taken today. Why, you may ask? Because it’s f’n hot, and the water sources are far apart, that’s why. Too busy thinking about the next water source and trying to find shade to rest in.

The morning wasn’t so bad (they never are). I got to watch the moon set as the sun rose, and I climbed the remainder of the mountain to run into Safety again (he camped at the top). We shadowed each other down the northern slope in some glorious tree cover to a spring where I made breakfast and cameled up. More water at the bottom of the canyon was available for topping off while we climb the exposed slope for what felt like forever. But once on the other side, there were quite a few small streams continuously along the way. I took advantage by not only drinking, but wetting down my buff on my neck as well as my shirt sleeves and pants legs. The extra evaporative cooling really helped me on the hot exposed climbs. Safety took refuge in a glorious shaded spot near water as I trudged on. I think he made the wiser choice.

The camping spot for the night was undecided, mostly because I wasn’t sure about water. The last natural source along here was listed on the app as being a waterfall. Well, it wasn’t. At least not anymore. Place your water bottle lip up against the rock and wait a minute for it to fill. Oh and try not to piss off the bees in the hive just above your head. I got my first liter without issue, but the second one must have exceeded the quota. Bam! Little pinky sting. Ok, water sourcing: Plan B.

The road crossing for the nearby town of Green Valley is a couple of miles away. There’s a National Forest Fire Station there, but sourcing water there is supposed to be tricky. Expcepting that, I can always hitch in to town. But then there’s the vortex of food, beer, ice cream…..The fire station panned out for me, and since my day went longer than intended, this is where I’ll stay. I can drink as much as I want, and even get more in the morning.

Savior out.