PCT, Day 27

Jeff brought me to the trailhead, and on the way, he picked up an 81-year-old hiker.
When I got out of the car, there were two hikers approaching: Navigator and Double Dinner. They had just come off the trail, and we were thrilled to see each other. Double Dinner told me that today was his birthday and invited me to return to town with them. If I had known earlier, maybe I would have planned differently, but I am all set to go now, and I'm sure they will catch up with me soon. We bid our goodbyes, and they went off to town with Jeff.

The walk today is pleasant. Since I am not going to travers Mt Baden Powell but are walking around it, I am having a very enjoyable road walk. My feet don't like it that much, but they manage the 17 km on the road.

The road is very quiet because there is a barrier at my starting point, and the road is closed. I have it all to myself. The first half is a gradual climb up to Dawson Saddle, and then there is a gradual descent. It isn't difficult.
After about 24 km in total, I arrive at a parking lot and set up my tent. It is only 2:30, but I decide to take it easy. However, it turns out not to be a good idea. As soon as my tent is set up, at least 20 hikers arrive. They mostly cowboy camp, and I find myself surrounded by them.

I eat my dinner and withdraw into my tent. I fall asleep, but when I wake up after an hour, a young guy has arrived. Every weekend, he goes to places where hikers are and brings beer to party with them. Now people are drinking and smoking around my tent. I realize that I need to be more thoughtful when choosing my tent site.

Tomorrow, I will have another 17 km of road walk since I just found out that part of the trail is closed to protect a rare kind of mountain frog.

Chipmunk this morning at Jeff's place:

Starting the trail:

Getting on the 17 km road walk:

Warning at the parking lot, where I set up my tent. Tent picture is from the next morning.