Up earlier today - 5 AM wakeup.

Terrain is changing again - shrubs are spacing out more - big brown vast mountain ranges in the distance. Still weaving in and out and up and down - sometimes difficult to tell where you’ll end up in the vast terrain ahead. … sometimes the trail is visible miles ahead (most often a climb up and out of a valley.

Stopped to air out our wet gear from last night (practically everything!!) - had a snack sat on the sunshine and enjoyed the view.

Met two men - a professor and videographer documenting wildlife and plants along the PCT - they were observing a raven’s nest in a telephone pole when we saw them.

Hiked up and around and down some more 🙃

Found a nice sandy shady spot for lunch - ramen - it was delicious 🤤

Climbed some more (I’m sensing a trend here in these mountains…). Terrain on one side sandy cliffs that collapse down in sheer drops. We keep going up and in and out - uncertain where & when the very near road (only 2 miles) will show itself.

Down we go (finally) and reach a row of telephone poles that will take us to Paradise Valley Cafe & burgers!!!

Hiked another mile (off trail) to get to the PV Cafe - VERY hiker friendly! We sat inside and ordered food - I got: a burger sweet potato fries (and normal fries because the waitress made a mistake), a coke, and a beer. Yum! 🤤💕

We hung out and route planned for the final push today and the next two days UP to Idyllwild - water looks like it’s going to be a HEAVY carry - 5 liters (11 pounds) (to avoid going far off trail and adding miles and additional elevation gains/loss).

Refilled water at the Cafe - scoured the hiker box for goodies (instant coffee ☕) washed up and hitched a ride back to the trail to save us an extra mile of walking.

Hiked another 3+ miles up through pine trees, massive boulders and green. Saw a baby rattle snake on trail.

Made it to our spot and got settled in just at dusk - two other campers here!

Coyotes yipping