Day 1-2: Settling in |

Day: 1

Mexican Boarder (0) to Mile 18 (18 miles)

Woke up at 4:30am and got a ride by my first trail angel (Robert) who picked me up from the airport and hosted me at his house overnight. We arrived by 6:00am and said my thanks and goodbyes. Signed the trail register and reached into Mexico and time to walk North!

I ran into at least a dozen boarder patrol within the first mile and even some riding on quads! It was a cool morning, but that would change quickly as the heat came just as fast as the sun rose. After couple miles I met Huck who is from Massachusetts and hiked the AT (Appalachian Trail) with his dog in 2013. He didn’t bring his dog on this trip because of the long distances with no water and would not be safe for any dog. We talked for a few miles before I took my first break at mile 6 and he continued on.

I was surprised to see how much food was being thrown on the side of the trail during the first day. Many hikers must of realized their packs were to heavy and were trying to find ways to ditch some weight, even couple pair of sandals were left behind. There was an awesome group of fiver younger people picking up everyone’s stuff and going to drop it off at the first campground 20 miles in.

Lots of California Condors and rabbits everywhere! I managed to make it to the top of a ridge right before dark and set up camp two miles before Lake Morena.

Day 2:

Mile 18 to Mile 34 (16 miles)

Woke up at was on the trail by 6:15, which was later then I wanted. Last night was a new moon, so there were a million stars out to be seen! Refilled my water this morning at Lake Morena and quickly charged my phone a little bit while eating breakfast. I managed to reach the next campground at 11:15am and took a two hour break to have lunch and lay in the shade and let me feet relax. They are feeling the burn, as expected.

Nothing major happened today except seeing tons of lizards running everywhere as I walk through. Was able to find another amazing spot at the top of a ridge just in time for a great sunset. (pics will be up later when receive the memory card in a while). Cold top roman for dinner!

I can say everything is going good so far, feet are feeling the burn and I hope to stop hiking sooner soon, so they can rest longer. Looking forward to whats to come!

Goodbye Mexico

Slowly making the first climb out of Campo

Finally found some shade to take a break out of the heat.

This is normally a good water source for hikers at this time of the year. Drought will sure cause water problems for me and everyone else this year

According to my map: “In May 2009 a Marine Super Cobra attack helicopter crashed near PCT mile 32.6. Munitions carried by the helicopter were scattered as a result of the crash. Signs warn hikers to stay on trail because of a safety hazard from unexploded military ordinances in this area.”