We left Ridgecrest and got a ride back to Walker Pass to began our last miles to Kennedy Meadows. Since we were coming back from town we kept the miles short by only climbing 2817 feet in elevation gain and 13 miles. There was no water for 16 miles so we had to carry enough to get through the day, night, and into the following morning. As we approached the Sierra mountain range we could see the snow capped mountains and thunderstorms building. It felt like home. In the afternoon we had to pull out our rain gear as rain drops began to fall, but it didn’t last long. As the storm moved in and out in the afternoon the wind picked up. I wanted to make sure I found a spot sheltered from the wind for my trekking pole tent. I found a spot behind a tree that worked well. We camped just before the next climb so we had fresh legs for the next day ahead. We set up camp, ate dinner, and enjoyed the sunset.

Chimney Creek

The next morning we woke up, ate breakfast, broke down camp and began our climb. After a few miles the trail then meandered along the hillside climbing down to water. I took a break and refilled my water for the day. Then the climbing began again. It was warm and I enjoyed the moments shaded by the trees. We climbed 3323 feet and hiked 16.38 miles for the day. The afternoon clouds were growing again, but this time no rain would fall on us. We filled up on water at a creek before arriving at Chimney Creek campground which was .25 miles off trail. When we arrived there were about 10 hikers at camp already. I was excited to be staying at a campground with picnic tables, a vault toilet, and fire pits. I pitched my tent and secured the stakes with rocks as the wind was blowing and getting dirt everywhere inside my tent. We sat at the table for dinner and then I laid down wrapped up in my cozy quilt as the temperatures were dropping as the sun set.

700 Miles!

The next morning we woke up early as we were 22 miles from Kennedy Meadows. After my morning routine I was on trail beginning my climb for the day. We had 6 miles of climbing and 2500 feet to go. The sun was rising over the mountains and it was beautiful. After a couple miles I stopped for water to fill up for the day. I didn’t take much of a break because if I was going to make it to Kennedy Meadows I needed to keep my breaks short and hike with a sense of urgency. After a few more miles I made it to the top of the climb. Yay! I took a short break and had a snack. Then the trail would begin its descend down to water. After about 12 miles I arrived at a creek where I dropped my pack, ate a snack, and grabbed some more water. The remainder of the trail was fairly flat as it paralleled the Kern River. The river was flowing strong and we had to climb over some rocks to avoid areas where the river had overflowed onto the trail. After 21.67 miles and 3857 in elevation gain I arrived at Sherman Pass Road. I was greeted by my friends who were cheering me on, taking pictures and videos, and had cold drinks waiting for me. After a break we loaded up the car and headed to the General Store. I got more drinks and we snacked on fries and onion rings. After a few hours we headed to camp, where we camped along the river for the night. My friends grilled chicken, asparagus, bell peppers, and made mashed potatoes.  The food was amazing. Then there was fresh berries and homemade brownies. My belly was full. I went to bed with the sound of the river and the light of the full moon. Life was good.

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