August 6

Distance: 22.1 miles | Ascent: 2380′ | Descent: 4030′

Mile marker: 658.7

Lunch: J – Thanksgiving (B+), A – garlic mushroom orzo (B)

Dinner: J&A – spanakopita and potstickers (A)

Early start to the day! Up at 5am and out the gate by 6am to make it to the Big Lake Youth Camp in Sisters, OR.  The trail was super cruisey. Although we went through a burn zone, the cloud and rain kept it cool and pleasant. We had a few moments of sun early in the morning before it rose above a thick blanket of clouds. On the way down, we saw a herd of mountain goats sitting on the mountain slope. We didn’t know they herded, but we think it was a group of moms with kids, perhaps banding together for protection.

We were making great time, faster than 3 mph! A quick stop for lunch and we were across Highway 20 where we encountered a marker letting us know that we have 2000 miles to go. Oof. It is probably a happier marker for the northbounders, as they have now covered the bulk of the trail.

We made it to the camp, found our package, got a shower, did the quickest load of laundry possible, and charged our devices. Jason decided it was time to shave. It turns out that he just doesn’t look good with a beard. Jason also got a new shirt in the box.

We set up camp off the property by the lake and quickly sorted through our box before the camp served us dinner. It was nice that the camp is so welcoming to hikers. We chatted with an Australian woman who was on her third section hike on the PCT to finish the whole thing. She’s been forced off by fire closures in the past, something we worry about for ourselves.

Because we hustled through the prior section, we got ourselves back on schedule, recovering from our delay at Cascade Locks waiting for Jason’s pack (before giving up that). Fortunately, Jason’s new pack has been delivered to Shelter Cove and will be ready to be picked up when we arrive in a few days. His latest repair shows no signs of slipping, however.

We have a big stretch of lava rocks (tough on the feet and shoes) and a long water carry tomorrow. We’re moving through Oregon fast, though. I guess we finally have our trail legs and can do long miles.