August 2 - Chester

Chester is a small town near where the PCT crosses highway 36. The people driving this stretch of road seem very familiar with thru hikers because no one seemed to have to wait more than 10 minutes to get a ride into town. Our ride was a bit unusual in that he had two young children in the car along with a giant Rottweiler named Kona and Tortoise babies. We crammed into the back seat and he loaded our packs then dropped us at the Best Western. That started our zero day. 

Breakfast was included and I had the usual eggs, potatoes, and sausage covered with gravy along with toast, a strudel, coffee, and orange juice. 

Next I went in search of a gas canister at the local hardware store. They didn't have one but the sports store across the street did. I stopped at the grocery store, on the other side of the street, and picked up a few items for the trail. Then it was back to the hotel to eat lunch. After a banana, orange, and  bagel with cream cheese I went in search of a barber. 

The barber was located in the 'other' part of town, across the bridge. A three minute walk took me to his door. Inside all of the regular chairs were occupied so I sat in the extra barber's chair until a customer left. And hour, or two "Leave it to Beaver" episodes later I was trimmed up and the seats were still full. 

Back at the hotel I collected Rocky and we went to the local greasy spoon for dinner. She had baked chicken breasts and I had chicken fried steak. Neither of us really liked our dinner and were happy to return to the hotel for a quick swim in the hot tub. We talked for a long time with a nice couple from Southern California who were interested in our adventures. Next we watched a movie on HBO and called it a night. 

I'm planning on being up early to hit the trail. Rocky's sleeping in and starting a a slower pace to make sure her knees are better. I may or may not see her again as we'll be traveling at different paces. 

The 'Before' picture. 

Hikingsolo