08-10-2017, 09:35 AM
The next morning, I got up early to filter water. The bugs didn't come out until the sun rose, but then they were back in full force. We broke camp without breakfast and fled Sunrise, only noting quickly how beautiful a place it is - a stunning sunrise over the frost covered marsh Once we cleared the ridge, the bugs were gone. We stopped there with a commanding view of Cathedral peak and Half Dome, for a wonderful brunch.
The rest of the hike was downhill for the most part, so much easier on my half-century old bod. It's so gorgeous up there. You don't see anyone for miles and when you do, there's backpacker's courtesies exchanged - genuine smiles and tips about what lies ahead on the trails. These trails just opened for the season, so they were a wreck. Trees fallen across, washed out parts, snow covered sections - we all went astray at points. We got within a few yards of a log-munching marmot and an 8 point stag. We wound up camping in a burnt out area - trees ravaged by fire but the undergrowth was returning. We found an established camp area with a stone fire pit (which I rebuilt to burn some paper trash) that overlooked a babbling stream, a perfect place to filter water. Lovely. It was so warm and pleasant that we left the rain flap off our tents to see the stars at night. After a traumatic first day death hike, Yosemite was opening up her treasures.
Want to know what happens next? Stay tuned for the next chapter.
The rest of the hike was downhill for the most part, so much easier on my half-century old bod. It's so gorgeous up there. You don't see anyone for miles and when you do, there's backpacker's courtesies exchanged - genuine smiles and tips about what lies ahead on the trails. These trails just opened for the season, so they were a wreck. Trees fallen across, washed out parts, snow covered sections - we all went astray at points. We got within a few yards of a log-munching marmot and an 8 point stag. We wound up camping in a burnt out area - trees ravaged by fire but the undergrowth was returning. We found an established camp area with a stone fire pit (which I rebuilt to burn some paper trash) that overlooked a babbling stream, a perfect place to filter water. Lovely. It was so warm and pleasant that we left the rain flap off our tents to see the stars at night. After a traumatic first day death hike, Yosemite was opening up her treasures.
Want to know what happens next? Stay tuned for the next chapter.
Shadow boxing the apocalypse