Up at 5:30 AM - packed and on trail.
Sky still had color - pinks and purples.
Last glimpse of Lake Morena as we head on.
Views of mountains and big chunky boulders.

First cow sighting - a whole herd right near our expected water source. Stopped for breakfast and checked maps - thankfully better water about 1/2 mile ahead.

Walked to water - spigot at campground.
Loaded up for the day (for the ups ahead).
Crossed under Hwy 88 and saw it in the distance all morning as we hiked.

Caterpillar hitchhikers all day. 🐛
They are out in full force and impossible to avoid.
I found several throughout the day catching a ride on my shirt, backpack, hat, pants… Curious what kind of creature they will turn into…

Rocks are turning from rolly polly boulders to spires and pokey chunks - still many wildflowers all around and near the trail.

Did a shirt soak to cool down in the wide open sun. Trail AC.

Hot and sunny today - zero cloud cover.
Skipped the swimming hole and opted to hike ahead for a shady lunch spot and some reading followed by a nap…

Took off shoes when relaxing and discovered my first blisters on the inside of my big toe (3 in a row) & a hotspot on the other big toe in the same spot 😔
(Fun fact: I didn’t get a single blister when hiking the AZT last year!) Cleaned and elevated feet while resting.

Decided to push ahead in the heat and sun for another 5 miles up up up to camping and next water source.

Passed through an “unexploded military ordinance” site - WTF?! Success - we didn’t explode!🤪

Devon struggled with the heat - made shade stops and slowed down. Made it to camp and a beautiful cold clear water stream.

Setup tents, filtered water, and had dinner with other hikers. We are camping with Maddie, & Tina.

Talked about books and podcasts and food (always food.) Temperature is dropping - everyone turned in early to stay warm and rest.