Desolation Wilderness changed its look today from granite mountains with lodge pole pine and shallow lakes to dense forest with heavy undergrowth or no undergrowth, just dead and broken branches and trees. I prefer the latter. Mosquitoes and biting flies were everywhere there was a hint of moisture.
The heat in the forest was oppressive, reminding me of hot humid days on the farm in Illinois. Although it was probably 70 degrees out, the trees blocked the wind and I was carrying 7 days worth of food so it felt hot and sweaty.
The trail was fairly flat or just slightly up/down. My trail legs don't seem to react to the ups like they used to; I'm able to walk a 10% grade without straining or stopping for air. Anything steeper and I just slow down or take smaller steps to keep my heart rate about the same.
The final miles of my hike brought some unexpected trail magic today. Three young men who had recently experienced trail magic themselves while hiking the Tahoe Rim Trail brought sodas, chips, and burgers with all of the fixings to the top of Barker Pass trailhead. Pip, Stitch, and Jib were there to greet hikers and do the magic. Thanks fellas! I had a couple of burger before finishing out the last two of my 20 miles.
Left this awesome view behind today.
Ferns in the forest.
Stitch, Pip, and Jib. Trail Angels with Magic.
Hikers taking part.
Hikingsolo
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