Campo – Big Bear: 270 miles on the PCT

I lay in my tent, showered with a stomach full of something other than granola and pasta. I am in the mountain town of Big Bear Caifornia, mile 270 on the PCT at a trail angels house.  This first section of the trail has been beyond wonderful. Those of us who have started earlier in the season have had the pleasure of water being abundant. I have swam, soaked my toes, and camped next to some beautiful creeks so far. The wild flowers paint the trail with color, and the grasses fill the hills with green.  Mountains loaded with snow test our abilities, and tease us for the Sierra to come. The snow pack that lies ahead is the largest that has been seen in many years. There is much fear among hikers, words and whispers spread through the community. I however am very excited for the high peaks. I’ll take water in the desert for snow in the Sierra. The miles flow by, and the sun tans my pale New England shade. Trail life is, and has always been the good life.

From the last town,  my trail group have gone 90 miles, up to nearly 11,000 feet atop Mt. San Jacinto, and back down to the desert floor under the 10 freeway into LA. The 90 mile section from Iydlwild to Big Bear sees drastic change in environment, and elevation. It seema in no time we may be sitting at Kennedy Meadows prepping for the peaks ahead.

Now on to trail family. I am apart of a wondeful group of people, people who I started with on the firstday and have continued to hike with since. Compared to my Appalachian Trail experience, in have heard many more languages this time around, and I love it. There is such joy in having a group to hike with, in that you always have someone ahead and behind who you know, and care for. So far this Zero day has been a great break from the trail to rest our minds, bodies and to hydrate with plenty of hopps.

Trail names have been popping up in our trail family. We got Sequoa, Pretty boy, Caveman, Munchies, Baby, Big Ax, Scuba Steve, and mine came along about 10 days ago. Hook is the name. I have a mustache and I tend to curl the corners, so I end up looking like Captain Hook from peter pan….that, and I leave little treasures in the woods, I will leave that to your imagination.

This trail has been full of suprises, and around each bend is another switch back waiting for you. There could be trail magic, a vista that will bring a tear to your eye, or somebody you haven’t seen in weeks. It’s these unexpected experiences that make this trail great. Photos soon to come.

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Comments 2

  • Zach : Apr 24th

    The few photos in this one has got me REAL excited for the next update. Simply beautiful.

    Reply
  • Kasey (Cheeks) Bartnick : Apr 25th

    I wish you all the excitement and love for the trail!! Looks and sounds like you’ve found some natural connections on the PCT with great joy! Can’t wait to read more….
    Happy trails Hook & Trail Fam!

    Reply

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