Friday, July 29, 2022
Start: Glen Aulin camp
End: Tuolumne Meadows
Miles: 6.0 (+2.0 mi extra walking)
Elevation gain/loss: 1053’/253′
I was awake at 5:15 and on trail by 5:45am. I made quick time and arrived at TM store before 8am. And just like that, I’ve hiked the PCT from Campo to Ashland and all of Washington, and just have Ashland to Bridge of the Gods left! Being unable to sit still, I decided I’d rather keep moving rather than wait for the store to open at 9am and the bus at 4:20pm.
I hiked further east on the road so I could get above the parking lots, the Lodge, and staff housing to increase my odds of getting an early morning hitch as people were leaving the park. I tried hitching for 2 hours but the few dozen cars leaving the park wouldn’t stop for me. So I turned around and headed back to the store, figuring I could try again later after I get some food.
And 5 minutes into my walk, Andrew picked me up. He’s from Scotland and heading to hike the JMT sobo from Red’s Meadows starting today. He very kindly took me all the way to Mammoth Lakes and dropped me off by the Old Shady Rest Campground, where my partner is staying. Now to recuperate, enjoy town food, and prep for our JMT hike!
Transcending Mountains 