PCT, Day 63

I start quite late today. The past few days have been a struggle. I am very worried about my weight and whether I can manage the Sierras. After having my oatmeal this morning, I still felt empty inside. At the campsite, in the bear box there is a plastic bag with some food that somebody left to use for others. I saw that there was one vegetarian freeze-dried dinner. I took it out and, after my oatmeal, I cook the freeze-dried dinner. This is why I am a bit later today.

The day starts with a river crossing, leaving my shoes and feet wet. Today, I also listen to an audiobook. It helps me keep my mind occupied. The river crossings today ensure that my shoes and socks don’t dry. All of the crossings are manageable for me by myself. The last one is right at the camp for tonight, which means my socks and shoes won’t be dry tomorrow morning.

About 4 km before the campsite, the nature becomes amazing. It makes me cry. It is a very deep experience, like feeling nature flowing into me, or my heart opening and flowing into nature. Everything feels unified. It is a very profound moment, and I cry a lot. It made all the struggles worth it to have that moment.

Tomorrow morning, I have to walk over a pass at 4000 meters. I expect snow and might have to use my microspikes and ice axe. I am usually all by myself, but tonight a group of hikers invited me to have dinner with them.

Later, a ranger shows up to check if everyone has a bear can to keep food safe. This area is very active with bears.