On day 17, it was decided that waking up at 4:30am and hitting the trail at 5:15 was the best option. The early breakfast was inspired by a 20 mile waterless stretch that lay ahead. Knocking out 10 miles before the heat of the day allowed me to carry only 2 liters during the waterless stretch.
When it was all said and done, I arrived at the next water source at 2pm. I wasn’t dehydrated, I still had half a liter of water left. But, I was mentally and physically drained from the morning and afternoon hiking.
Of course, that’s when the trail provided something to uplift my spirits. A trail supporter must know of the difficult waterless stretch, so he/she setup a nice spot to relax and enjoy yourself.
Next to the water cache, this trail angel provided a couch and a garbage dumpster filled with some PCT Magic. Inside the dumpster was 8 different kinds of soda, various cookies, water, fruits, first aid supplies, and a trail log for thru hikers to sign.
Keep in mind, this is in the middle of the wilderness.
I took a fulfilling 2 hour break at the magic couch, which gave me enough energy to hike another 7 miles until I arrived at some flat ground next to a creek, where I slept under the stars for the night.
Now, it’s day 23 and I’m in Jeff’s hiker hostile, readying myself to get back on the trail at mile 370 so I can continue walking to Canada.
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