Wednesday, March 30, 2016

March 30 - Zero Day on the San Andreas


Snow in the San Gabriel mountains should be the least of my worries considering where I am, but that's been the topic of discussion all day. And where am I? Right on top of the crushing zone between the North American continental and Pacific tectonic plates where a small slip would make slipping on snow appear inconsequential. I'm sleeping, eating, and breathing on top of the San Andreas Fault!  Thanks Phil Anderson for pointing this out! I love having a geologist as a friend; it adds meaning to my travels! 

Back to the snow discussion: I'll be going around the trail to Wrightwood where I'll rejoin the PCT. The fun part is that Wrightwood is San Andreas centered. I'll walk along a ridge that lets me look down onto a great rift in the landscape. If the fault holds it should make for a nice walk. If it gives way then I'll see you all at the bottom of the slope! 

Today has been a nice resting day and a chance to let muscles regenerate. Thanks to the Fullers for dinner at Del Taco, to the Best Western for their generous hospitality (Happy Birthday to Rick, the motel manager), and to Justin for sharing a room with me and entertaining me. Tomorrow it'll be back to traveling. 

BTW - Just as the day was coming to a close eight additional thru hikers came into the hotel lobby. Seven of them will be taking a zero day to let the snow melt. One plans on tackling the mountain. Justin is thinking about it. 

No pictures today. No one wants to see a motel room.  Well, just a selfie!




Hikingsolo

2 comments:

  1. Allen, thank you for sharing your posts. Brings back many wonderful memories of my younger life when I hiked several sections of the PCT in Oregon and Washington. I am curious as to how you are writing yourblogs. Using voice software and uploading daily? Surprised that cell coverage is that good. Thanks again and travel safe.
    Roger

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    1. Cell coverage is spotty. I use Notes on my iPhone to compose in my sleeping bag at night, then I upload via email when at the top of a ridge. Sometimes its days before I can send. Happy trails!

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